Kitchen Renovation

Choosing the right countertop for your kitchen remodel in the Memorial area

Searching for the perfect surface shouldn’t be as difficult as it sounds. Here are some indicators to consider the most popular countertop materials. 

It is enticing to select a countertop based on appearance alone, a material’s durability, maintenance and, of course, cost are also important factors to have in mind when making a selection for a kitchen remodel.

Find a perfect fit

It’s advisable to assess your standard of living before settling on a countertop surface. 

Countertop choices

The good news is if homeowners have their hearts set on a specific look, but the material just doesn’t match with their lifestyle, chances are another material does.

Granite, the top choice in countertops, is available in a variety of colors such as blacks, whites, greens, corals, and beiges, and no two pieces are the same. Granite is available in two finishes. A polished finish results in a shiny look and often darkens the appearance of the stone while honing is soft and matte. Costs for granite depend on many variables, including color, finish, and root of the stone.

“If you pick a granite that’s relatively easy to get, it could be reasonable in cost. If you pick a granite that is imported from Zimbabwe, and it only ships annually, it could be expensive.

Other natural stone materials, like marble, limestone, and soapstone, are softer than granite and require delicate use and greater care. All stone countertops must be sealed periodically.

Engineered stone countertops come in a wider variety of colors than natural stone countertops, are more durable and are a cinch to maintain.

Solid surface countertops have a lot of appeals. They come in countless colors, are seamless, resist stains and scratches can be buffed out. One word of caution, though: Hot pans can damage solid-surface countertops.

Concrete countertops, which can be completely customized with pigments, are gaining popularity. Concrete is available in several different finishes: trowel, ground, and pressed.  The extreme temperature may cause concrete to warp or curl, damp sponges left on the counter can cause discoloration and acidic spills may etch the surface. To keep a concrete countertop looking its best, it’s advisable to seal them up to four times per year and wax with a paste every two to three months.

Wood countertops, like butcher block, instantly warm up a kitchen. They are easy to clean and any scratches can be sanded out. Water damages the butcher block quite easily, though, so wood countertops must be oiled frequently to seal the surface.

Mix and match

Can’t decide on just one material? Then mix and match surfaces. Another alternative is to insert another material into a countertop for specific tasks. Butcher block is common for chopping as is marble for baking.

Before deciding on a countertop material, check the surface in person, whether that means visiting a showroom or viewing samples in-home.

Looking to choose the right countertop for your kitchen makeover in the Memorial area? Contact Larocque group today!