Your kitchen décor is as important as every other room in your home and your countertops are an integral part of setting the mood. What will it be? The classic elegance of wood? The sophistication of granite? The trendy of stainless? Why not compare kitchen countertops and see what the market has to offer.
1. Concrete
One of the most dynamic countertops to make it to the kitchen is concrete. The texturing and detailing provide a very unique and interesting finished product that is truly unique.
A concrete countertop weighs the same as a granite one. It needs to be poured and cured in advance of being installed. The concrete that is used for countertops is very sophisticated and it is created from a pre cast mold. However it is porous so you will need to seal it regular to stop staining.
2. Engineered Stone
This is a quartz composite that’s a mix of polymers, pebbles, and epoxy. You get more color choices than with natural stone. This is a very durable product that resists stain and takes heat well. And it’s a very affordable running between $50 and $100 per square foot.
3. Stainless Steel
This is a very contemporary and chic look that is hard to resist. It’s stain resistant, durable, and it’s a great surface for preparing food. Stainless needs to be attached to a wood substrate to help make it more sound resistant. You are looking at between $100 and $200 per square foot for stainless steel countertops.
4. Stone
Natural stone is a great finish for any kitchen whether it’s traditional or contemporary. It will cost you between $60 and $125 a square foot installed. Granite is available in a variety of colors and patterns from different regions around the world and of course don’t forget your other options like marble, slate, or quartz.
Marble stains easier than granite and it can be damaged by acidic foods. Slate is great because it comes to room temperature and of course it’s beautiful too! Natural stone lasts forever and provides a lifetime of class and elegance.
5. Wood
Wood is always warm and appealing. Choose from walnut, cherry, maple, oaks, teak, or mahogany. Wood not only looks great it is also very sanitary so perfect for kitchens. It does require some regular maintenance and you might consider applying a sealant. It costs $45 to $100 a square foot.
6. Laminate
This is an economical option and there are plenty of color choices all for as little $25 a square yard. The problem with laminate is that it isn’t meant to last more than about ten years or less depending on the usage. It is not protected against scratching or stains, nor is it heat resistant.
7. Ceramic Tile
This remains a very popular option and it’s certainly affordable running from $10 to $40 per square foot. It lasts a long time and it’s scratch and heat resistant. It does require regular maintenance with grout but other than that you can expect your tiles to last a long time!
When you get your countertop quote make sure your price includes the cost of the counter, installation, and delivery. The price will vary depending on material, texture, sink type, kitchen size, and the type of kitchen and installation involved.
Once you compare kitchen countertops and decide which is the perfect choice for your kitchen it's time to get three quotes. Remember if you are at all handy you might be able to do the install yourself. So are you ready for that new kitchen?
