Hal Major © 2009
BobVilaContractors.com
There is a kitchen countertop option to fit every style, decor and taste. We cover the top 5 options giving you the information to help make a decision on which one is right for your new kitchen or remodeling project.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile countertops are a great choice for the do-it-yourself homeowner. One of the issues that many DIY folks run into is not enough time to do larger projects in one sitting. Ceramic tile counters can be installed a section at time and allows the flexibility to start and stop as time permits.
Tile will easily handle hot skillets and pans. Cleanup is easy and you can get ceramic tile in a wide range of colors, textures, designs and price ranges. You can let the artist in you run wild, if you desire. The surface is not as even as most countertops and the grout will need cleaning from time to time.
Laminate
Laminate countertops are generally known by their manufacturer’s name. For example, Wilsonart, Formica, Bevella and Nevamar. The laminate is glued to a manufactured wood composite material that makes laminate counters very smooth and easy to clean. They are durable and inexpensive. Laminate countertops remain the first choice with new homebuilders.
Solid Surface (Acrylic)
Solid surface counters are made to your specifications. The choice of colors, patterns and edge treatments is nearly limitless. Since the counter is solid, any scratches or marks can be sanded out. They are seamless except for very large counters because of the weight and handling difficulties. Solid surface counters are also stain resistant, however extremely hot pans could damage the countertop.
Stone
Stone countertops include marble, granite, soapstone and engineered stone. All of them are at the high end of the price range. Engineered stone is 93% quartz particles compressed and held together with an epoxy compound. Marble, granite and soapstone are all natural materials. Granite has recently become very popular in the high-end kitchen. Next to diamonds, it is the hardest natural material known. All natural stone countertops are porous and need sealing to keep them from staining. Marble is the most expensive of the natural stones and is generally used for smaller surfaces such as kitchen islands. Granite is next in the price range but has come down from a few years ago.
Concrete
Just what the name implies. These countertops are made from a special concrete. Concrete countertops are an excellent choice if you have unusually shaped counters. The concrete is cast on the counter and is molded to fit. It can be tinted to match color schemes and it's heat and scratch resistant. New additives reduce the porous aspects and potential cracking. Mid to high price range because of the custom work needed for the countertop mold and frame.
Concrete rounds-out the top 5 choices for home kitchen remodeling. Depending on your level of experience with renovation projects you may want to hire a reputable contractor to handle the kitchen countertops.
