subject: The Perfect Countertops Will Complete The Perfect Kitchen [print this page] When remodeling or building a new home, there are a lot of important decisions that have to be made. One of the most important areas of the home, is the kitchen. Having a kitchen that is not only pleasing to the eye, but also very functional is a worthy investment. Nothing beats cooking in an amazing kitchen that you love. Choosing the right countertops is an integral part to the process of creating the perfect kitchen, and with so many options to choose from, it may be difficult to know which is right for you.
One very popular surface right now is granite. Granite can be pretty expensive, but it is beautiful. Part of what makes granite so beautiful, is the natural imperfections found in the stone. There will often be small fissures or pits, which give it a less manufactured look. These imperfections in no way compromise the structural integrity of the countertop. One problem with granite, is that since it is a semi porous surface, it must be sealed and then resealed every few years. Again, due to the porous surface, discoloration or absorption of spills is possible. However, granite is very durable, and resistant to breakage. Granite is also resistant to bacteria buildup.
Quartz surfaces are a man-made, or engineered stone. Since it is made up of quartz and different resin binders, it does not need to be sealed, and is therefore also non-porous. Since it is man-made rather than natural, the surfaces are going to be more consistent than what you get with granite. So if you don't like the idea of imperfections in your countertops, but still like the idea of stone, quartz tops are a good choice. While quartz is more resilient to staining than granite, quartz can be damaged by heat, whereas granite is impervious to it.
If you are looking for something other than stone, butcher block countertops may be up your alley. Made from wood, it is hard to argue against the natural beauty of butcher block. Butcher block is typically a lot less expensive than either granite or quartz, but it still has a classy look and feel. One thing that may deter some people from butcher block is the fact that it requires more maintenance than the stone countertops. Applying mineral oil once a month will help you get more longevity out of your butcher block. You also have to take care which chemicals you use in cleaning it, as anything harsh will damage the surface.
Cost, look, and utility, are all important things to take into consideration when deciding which countertops will be best for you when you are making kitchen renovations. Determine your budget, and then go with what will feel most right.
