Kitchen renovation is a critical part of any renovation project. If you’ve read our article, Kitchen Renovation: Floor or Cabinet First?, then you know each method has its advantages and disadvantages. In either case, you will have to choose a countertop that goes well with the decor of your home.
Unfortunately, for a lot of homeowners, this process becomes complicated due to the number of options available. Therefore, to help you find the perfect choice, we’ve narrowed down the list to the top seven kitchen countertops you can choose from!
7 kitchen countertops to choose from
1. Marble
Often called the luxury countertop, marble is among the most popular options for countertops. It is often called the ‘king of kitchen aesthetic,’ and there is a good reason for that: it goes well with almost any type of decor and commercial kitchen cabinets. However, marble is very difficult to maintain. The rock is porous, allowing liquids to enter and create permanent staining. The material adds to your home’s value since marble is quite expensive.
2. Granite
One of the most versatile kitchen countertop options, granite is available in a variety of colors: from light to dark to black. The shape of the granite countertop edges can also be customized to be blunt, which is extremely helpful for homes with younger children. They require very little maintenance. However, much like marble, some granites are porous and require regular sealing to ensure there is no staining. Granite has a wide price range and therefore can be afforded by just about anyone.
3. Butcher’s block
Butcher’s block is an affordable alternative for stone countertops. The material is made from smaller pieces of wood bonded together to create a large slab. There are a variety of options available: from cherry wood to walnut to teak, and therefore it can be customized according to your aesthetic. The biggest advantage of this countertop is that you can cut directly on the surface without a cutting board or buffer. This material can be DIY-ed if you do not have a large budget.
4. Soapstone
Soapstone is the low-maintenance version of marble and granite. It is non-porous, making it stain-free, bacteria-free, and safe. However, this material is only available in darker shades. It is popularly imported from Finland or Brazil and often comes in shades of grey and blue. However, the countertop can oxidize, therefore, you will need to oil it at least once a month to maintain the gloss and finish. It has a lifespan of over 20 years if maintained properly.
5. Stainless steel
While it is a popular choice for commercial kitchen countertops, stainless steel can also be used in homes. The steel gives the space an industrial, contemporary, and minimal look which may be perfect if minimalism is your kitchen aesthetic. Stainless steel is easy to maintain, does not stain or leach. However, the material also shows water spills and fingerprints easily and therefore requires frequent cleaning. This may not be ideal if your home has young children or pets.
6. Tile
Tiles as countertops were popular in the 70s and 80s, but they are making a comeback! A tile is an option used by homeowners who want to renovate on a small budget. Installation of a tile countertop can be done with minimal skill, and therefore you can DIY this type of countertop. There are a variety of options available – from different sizes to shapes to colors and patterns. The countertop is completely customizable to your needs.
7. Laminate
Laminate countertops were often called Formica countertops because of the brand. Laminate is among the cheapest materials for a countertop available in the current market. The material comes in unlimited color options and design options and is among the most popular choices among homeowners. However, the laminate material is susceptible to damage from scratching, tearing, spills, and others due to the low price.
These are the top kitchen countertops you can choose from for your home. Each countertop has a unique aesthetic that may or may not go with your home. Therefore, the best option is to view various pieces in person before deciding on a type of countertop. You can contact kitchen interior experts to find the perfect fit for your home!
