Whether making a new installation or undertaking a remodeling project, you will want to make different considerations for countertops that include aesthetic appeal, ease of maintenance and cost of countertops.
Kitchen countertops must withstand the different activities undertaken in the kitchen. Countertops should provide a good marriage of beauty and functionality.
Installation of countertops requires a considerable budget. Your remodeling or new installation budget will determine the type of countertop material to purchase. The material chosen will be consuming a large portion of the budget. With a good understanding of the characteristics of each material, its functionality, and cost, a homeowner can reassess the amount of countertop space for their kitchen. The chosen material will also be used to the kitchen island and the backsplash area which makes the cost factor all the more important.
The rule of thumb is always go for countertop material that has been tried and tested and passed to be 100 percent reliable and worth every cent spent. This article seeks to provide a comparison of the best countertops material available in the market at present.
Quartz
Quartz is one of the most popular materials for countertops due to its durability and easy maintenance. Quartz is composed of stone minerals and resins only that it is more robust. An availability of different colors and patterns that mimic more expensive natural stone such as marble and granite make quartz a material on high demand.
Quartz countertops cost ranges from $55 to $155 per square foot but can be slightly lowered by purchasing quartz tiles rather than slabs. Choose soft rounded edges for quartz countertops rather than hard sharp edges that are prone to chipping. You may also visit caesarstone.ca to choose the best material for your kitchen depending on your needs and respecting your budget.
Granite
Granite slabs are characterized by rare colors and veining which makes it highly appealing for kitchen countertops. Granite is also robust making it able to withstand scratches, abrasions, cuts, and high temperatures. Polished and matte finished granite surfaces are resistant to stains and bacterial infestation.
The cost of granite countertops cost ranges from $40 for low-end granite to $200 for high end granite slabs. Similar to quartz, you can make small savings by purchasing granite tiles rather than slabs. Granite requires regular sealing to protect the surface from staining.
Marble
Marble represents one of the most luxurious countertop materials in the market. Marble require greater maintenance compared to other material but it will last a lifetime with proper care. Follow all manufacturer instructions such as sealing, daily care, and cleaning to keep the marble in good shape.
Marble countertops cost will anything between $75 and $250 per square foot. You can cut your costs by going for affordable grades and colors of marble. Alternatively, marble tiles are slightly cheaper than marble slabs. Homeowners should keep in mind that marble countertops are not ideal for surfaces prone to spillages and kitchens placed under heavy use.
Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops are popular due to their simplicity and affordability. Homeowners undertaking remodeling projects on a limited budget can readily work with laminate. Laminate is made out of layers of paper or fabric spread out on composition wood and sealed with resin.
Present day laminate is available in many different colors and patterns with a more robust and modern appeal. Use of the latest printing technology ensures that homeowner can find patterns that match with the décor of the kitchen and home.
Laminate countertop prices range from $15 to $40 per square foot and can be installed as a DIY project. One disadvantage of laminate is the fact that it is easily scratched or cut.
Solid Surfacing
Another versatile product for countertops is solid surfacing which provides a seamless finish between joints. The material is durable, stain resistant, heat resistant, and is resistant to abrasions and scratches.
Solid surfacing is available at a price range between $35 and $85 per square foot. Savings can be made by choosing standard grade material rather than the premium options. Get an experienced professional to install solid surfacing.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles are one of the most popular countertop materials in the market. It is popular for use on kitchen islands and backsplashes. Tiles are durable and resistant to heat, staining and scratching. Tiles are replaceable for those that crack or chip.
Installation of ceramic tiles may range from $18 to $35 per square foot and will turn your kitchen into an architectural marvel with a little creativity. Not all tiles can be used for countertops since some variations are thin and will crack easily with heavy use. Choose larger tiles which are easier to install due to reduce labor input compared to smaller tiles.
Concrete
Concrete countertops are yet another option which is ideal for modern homes and for outdoor kitchens. Concrete is durable and resistant to scratches, stains, heat and denting.
Concrete countertops cost anything between $75 and $125 per square foot and are available in a variety of colors that will match your home décor. Prices may be higher for intricate designs on concrete slabs.
Wooden Butcher Block
There are a number of wood variations used for countertops and that add warmth to the kitchen. Wood is a great material, easy to install, finish and repair. Well varnished wood countertops will withstand staining. For repair and maintenance, sanding will remove nicks, dents and scratches.
The typical price range for wood butcher block ranges from $55 to $200 depending on the type of wood chosen. Save money by choosing cheaper wood especially if you do not plan on staying longer than 10 years.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel may not be a popular choice for countertops in home kitchens. Stainless steel countertops are ideal for high traffic kitchen and cooking enthusiasts. It is a durable and tough material that is easy to clean.
Stainless steel is not cheap with prices ranging from $80 to $225 per square foot but will prove to be a worthy investment due to its lifetime durability. Moderate quality stainless steel is cheaper whereas high quality thickness and finish will be expensive and are reserved for commercial kitchens.
It might be difficult to choose the best material for your kitchen as we all have different needs and budget. Shop around to find good prices for any chosen countertop material and keep in mind installation costs to get the best deals.
