Selecting the perfect kitchen countertops is important because they must balance functionality and style. Factors like durability, maintenance, stain resistance, and how well they match the kitchen’s overall design are all key considerations. Today we’ll cover a few of our favorite options for the kitchen…
Option #1: Natural Stone
Natural stone is a popular option because there are so many different variations.From light to dark or simple to bold design, there is always something to appeal to everyone. Some material options include granite, quartzite, marble, soapstone or onyx.
There are some considerations you’ll want to factor in when deciding if you want a natural stone. Will you want to reseal or oil (soapstone) the stone as needed? Do you want to place a hot pan on the surface (we always recommend a trivet)? Are you okay with potential staining and seeing the natural aging of a marble?
Option #2: Quartz
Quartz is a man-made product (not to be confused with the natural stone, quartzite). It is comprised of crushed quartz, resin, polymers, and pigments that bind the particles together to make patterns and colors. I am extremely picky about quartz. Get up close and make sure it doesn’t look pixelated, and always see the full slab in person to make sure you like the overall pattern (because they sometimes repeat too much). That being said, there are beautiful quartz out there!
Quartz is very durable, but you definitely cannot set a hot pan on this one due to the polymers and resin potentially melting. The maintenance on quartz is also easy. You don’t need to reseal it, and stains are fairly uncommon. Pricing on quartz can range a fair amount, just like natural stone.
Option #3: Porcelain
Porcelain is a fairly new option for countertops. It’s heat resistant, so you CAN put a hot pan on them. It’s also highly resistant to stains and scratches. The only downside that I’ve seen is that, because they are thin, you have extra labor to build them up, and the cost for that labor, fabrication, and material can be quite expensive.
Of course, there are many other countertop options to explore for your kitchen remodel—such as butcher block, concrete, or metal. The most important factor is understanding how you cook and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with. That insight helps us recommend the materials that will best suit your lifestyle and the way your family uses the space.
If you’re ready for a professional to bring your dream kitchen (countertops and all) to life, let’s talk! We’d be delighted to help.
Warmly,
Dawn
