subject: Tips for Choosing New Countertops for Your Kitchen [print this page] Tips for Choosing New Countertops for Your Kitchen
When it comes to kitchen remodeling, choosing counter-tops can be a difficult decision. There are many different types, each with their own unique set of properties and advantages. While some can prove quite costly, you will still be able to find some very budget friendly options.
When choosing a counter-top, the first question you must ask yourself is this. Do you prefer a counter-top that is aesthetically pleasing or one that is easy to maintain? The answer to this question will make a difference. Other considerations such as color, matt or gloss finish, texture, thickness and treatment. You may even choose to combine different counter-top surfaces in one room. For example, you could have a granite counter-top installed for your island while choosing a stainless steel top to go beside the cook surface. Here you would have one for beauty and another for practicality. No matter how you go about making your decisions, stop first to consider your needs.
Cost is always an issue when it comes to any type of remodeling project. The first thing you should do is establish a budget. This is important as it will keep you on track during the entire project. It will also help keep you from looking at materials you cannot afford.
One definite factor is cost. Though it will be more expensive to hire someone to do the job for you, there are many advantages. A contractor who has installed counter-tops before will most likely know how to deal with the different types. It is important to make sure the job is done correctly the first time and hiring a contractor will give you the definite advantage where this aspect is concerned. Also, a contractor will be able to show you how to care for your choices and may even be able to advise you on counter-top choices if you are having difficulty making a decision.
Once you have considered installation costs and come up with a budget you have to spend on the actual materials, you can start looking through your various choices. This may be the most fun part of all because it will give you an opportunity to really view what is out there. You may even find options you didn't know existed and after talking to a contractor, find you can actually get away with certain choices you weren't sure about before.
The next step is to decide whether or not you want one type of counter-top throughout the entire kitchen or different ones for different surfaces. A smaller kitchen will most likely accommodate the same type better while different types may work well in a larger kitchen. Make sure you know how to care for them before installation begins. You may not want one that requires a lot of maintenance if you don't have the proper time to give it or if this is simply not your preference.
Now it's time to choose the counter-tops themselves. Think of your color scheme and figure out which types will best fit there. Find a contractor who has installed the exact type of types you have chosen. If you have selected different types, make sure the contractor you choose can install them all as this will save you both time and money.
