Choosing a Countertop Material

When you are renovating your kitchen, one of the most important decisions you will need to make is which countertop material to use. There are tons of materials to choose from, each with its own benefits and disadvantages. Use this quick guide to help you make your choice based on looks, maintenance, and cost. 

Budget-Friendly Options

If you are on a tight budget, consider replacing your current countertops with tile or laminate. Tile counters are easy to install on your own and are typically inexpensive. Porcelain tiles are resistant to stains, scratches, and heat. Plus, if one tile cracks, it is simple and inexpensive to replace only the damaged one. However, the grout in between tiles is susceptible to moisture damage. Laminate counters are low maintenance, simple to clean, and are available in a wide selection of colors. On the other hand, laminate can easily be damaged by heat, stains, and scratches. Also, both of these materials are not very trendy nowadays. 

Low Maintenance Options

For a counter that won’t require a lot of care or maintenance, choose quartz or another manufactured solid surfacing. Quartz is extremely durable and is resistant to scratches and stains. It looks like natural stone but does not need to be sealed like real stone does. You can purchase quartz counters in a number of different colors and patterns. Other manufactured solid surfaces also look like natural stone and are similarly low maintenance. On the downside, both options can be expensive and can look artificial if you choose the wrong option.

Unique Options

Homeowners that are looking for a unique, natural surface counter should consider granite, marble, or soapstone. These beautiful and trendy materials offer the best aesthetic appeal. They are available in a number of one-of-a-kind patterns and designs. Marble is resistant to heat. Granite and soapstone are both highly durable and soapstone is resistant to heat and stains. All of these options will need to be installed by professional countertops installers in Johns Creek. Additionally, they are all expensive and need to be sealed at least once a year. 

Other Options

Additional popular materials include butcher block, stainless steel, and concrete. Each of these materials has its own advantages, but, on the whole, they are not as low maintenance or cost efficient as others. Stainless steel is durable and resistant to heat, but shows fingerprints and can be dented easily. Concrete is also very durable, but can crack and stain if it is not sealed correctly. Butcher block offers a traditional and unique look, but it must be oiled regularly. No matter what material you choose, you and the countertops installers in Johns Creek can be sure your remodeled kitchen will look great.