Countertops That Fit Your Lifestyle

There are several important factors to consider when choosing kitchen countertop.  The look of the countertop, the material, durability, ease of maintenance and of course possible the most important deciding factor or for most is the overall cost.  However, there is another factor that most homeowners do not take in to account and that is how they live.  For instance, if they were an active family with several children they wouldn’t want to select a surface that has a tendency to stain. 

Natural stone countertops such as granite have become a very popular choice over the years, mainly because of its natural appearance and the fact that it is available in a variety of colors ranging from blacks to white.  Granite is available in two finishes, polished, which has a glossy appearance and honed which has a soft matted appearance.  The price of granite per square foot will depend on its color, finish, and origin of the stone. Other natural stone countertops include marble, limestone, and soapstone.  However, these are softer than granite and require greater care of use, as they will scratch.  It is important to know that all stone countertops must be sealed periodically or else they will stain.  

Engineered stone countertops on the other hand are more durable than natural stone and are available in as wider variety of colors as natural stone.  Another added benefit of engineered stone countertops is they are easy to maintain.  However, they are not less expensive than natural stone.  In fact, natural stone and engineered stone countertops cost roughly the same.

Solid surface countertops are also popular, as they are both durable and easy to maintain.  In addition, they are available in countless colors, are seamless, resist stains.  If you accidentally scratch them, the scratches can easily be buffed out.  The only disadvantage of solid surfaces is that HOT pots and pans will damage solid surface countertops, as will cigarettes, hot glue guns, etc, that are placed on the countertop.

Concrete countertops are increasing in popularity they are durable, and are available in a wide range of colors as they can be customized with pigments.  In addition, concrete countertops are available in several finishes.  The trowel finish is smooth, whereas the ground finish has been sanded to expose the sand aggregate, and the pressed finish has marble-like veining.  However, concrete does have some disadvantages.  If exposed to abrupt temperature changes it can wrap or curl.  Discoloration can occur if you leave a damp sponge or cloth on the counter and if you accidentally spill an acid solution on the surface, it can become etched.  To maintain concrete countertops, it is advised that they should be sealed four times a year and have a paste wax applied every two to three months.

Wood countertops are still a popular choice as they add warmth to any kitchen.  In addition they are easy to maintain, easy to clean and you can sand out any minor scratches.  However, wood countertops can become easily water damaged.  Wood countertops do require oiling to seal them.  

The most affordable countertops are laminates.  Laminate countertops are available in a variety of colors and styles.  Laminates do have several disadvantages in that they can be scorched if a hot pan is placed on the surface and they can become easily scratched.  Other problems also include separation of the laminate if not properly glued.