Choosing the right kitchen countertops can be a daunting task. This is one of the most expensive parts of a kitchen renovation, which means that before you spend money, it’s best to familiarize yourself with materials that will not only look stylish, but also meet your needs.
In this article you will learn:
- How a countertop can shape the appearance of the entire kitchen.
- What countertop materials exist, and what do they look like?
- Working triangle: what is it, and how does it relate to kitchen ergonomics?
- What materials are recommended for countertops?
Granite is undoubtedly one of the most popular materials in kitchen design. For many, its price is very expensive, even though it can actually increase the resale value of the home. Fortunately, there are a number of alternatives that can help replicate the look of granite: marble, quartz…
Concrete can also be an interesting idea for a kitchen countertop, which has become popular in recent years.
Granite for kitchen countertops
Granite is produced in various grades, from 1 to 5, patterns, colors and thicknesses. The price can vary depending on the choice, and the thickness can really greatly affect the final side, so if you want to save money, then you should consider countertops with a thickness of 20 millimeters.
The advantages include:
- Impressive appearance.
- Hard surface that withstands heat and scratches well.
- Natural material with an attractive texture.
The disadvantages include:
- The material is porous, which means it will have to be sealed periodically to preserve the surface of the countertop.
- High cost of material.
Modular Slabs for kitchen countertops
Modular slabs can be made from various types of stones, but in fairly specific sizes. Modular slabs are much larger than tiles and are easier to install yourself, which attracts numerous buyers.
Advantages of modular Slabs:
- It will be much cheaper to use modular slabs in the kitchen.
- It’s easier to install yourself.
- Scratch resistance varies depending on the material.
The disadvantages include:
- May conflict with non-standard kitchen models.
- Limited style options
Fake Diamond for kitchen countertops
Often acts as an alternative to granite. This material is stronger and more durable than granite. Quartz countertops are some of the hardest materials in the world, making them the most suitable for kitchens.
The material is also heat and stain resistant, making it easy to clean. This is an environmentally friendly material that does not allow moisture to pass through.
The possibilities for combining patterns, reliefs and shapes are endless; it’s easy to choose the right option for any type and style of kitchen.
Pros:
- Average cost.
- Eco-friendly material.
- Resistant to stains and scratches.
Cons:
- Seams may be more noticeable.
Laminates for kitchen countertops
A less popular but impressive-looking material for countertops is laminate. This material is coated with a protective layer and is sold in limited colors. This option is perfect for budget solutions.
Pros:
- Easy to maintain.
- Inexpensive.
- Easy to install.
Cons:
- Short-lived.
- Difficulty of repair.
- It is susceptible to high temperatures, scratches easily and holds moisture terribly.
Soapstone for kitchen countertops
This material is highly resistant to dirt and bacteria. Soapstone is extracted from natural stone, and it comes in a range of gray tones from dark to light.
Unlike other natural stone countertops, a soapstone countertop will not require annual treatment, and regular cleaning with soap will help mask any scratches on the surface, as well as add shine and deepen the color of the stone over time.
Pros:
- Low cost.
- Non-porous.
- Durable.
- Damage can be easily repaired yourself.
Cons:
The material is relatively soft and susceptible, so it is better to not drop anything heavy on it.
Travertine for kitchen countertops
Material with an interesting name. This material was created by the compaction of calcium carbonate.
It is quite porous, which makes it necessary to process it to prevent the penetration of moisture, bacteria and food debris. Despite higher maintenance requirements, the material can be very aesthetically pleasing and bring warmth and coziness to any kitchen style.
Pros:
- Durable.
- Can be installed either as a solid slab or as tiles.
- Eco-friendly material.
Cons:
- Very porous.
- It actively absorbs water, which means it can lead to the spread of bacteria.
- Easy to scratch.
- Damaged by heat.
Ceramic Tile for kitchen countertops
Surprisingly, you can even place ceramic tiles on the countertop, and you can even re-cover an existing countertop with them, which is quite easy to do yourself. This option is perfect for handicraft lovers.
Tiles can be an extremely impressive material, especially when used as a countertop for classic kitchen designs.
Pros:
- It gives the kitchen comfort and warmth.
- Thermal and moisture-resistant material.
Cons:
It is also worth considering that the material itself is quite fragile.
Acrylic Stone for kitchen countertops
Acrylic stone is a common material that looks seamless and is like artificial stone. However, the price is not far from the price of marble or granite.
Non-porous, which means it is protected from moisture and bacteria. And it withstands temperature changes much better than stone.
Pros:
- Variety of colors.
- Possibility of creating a seamless countertop.
- Can withstand temperatures well.
- Non-porous
- Hard to get dirty.
Cons:
- Expensive material.
- Less resistant to damage.
Stainless Steel for kitchen countertops
Such material is indeed recognized as quite environmentally friendly; it is very difficult to damage it, even intentionally.
Steel is easy to clean, it does not require additional treatments, and can easily withstand high temperatures. However, the material is quite shiny and does not go well with all styles.
Pros:
- Durable material.
- Heat and moisture-resistant.
- Easy to install.
- Eco-friendly material.
Marble for kitchen countertops
Synonymous with nobility and sophistication. Excellent material suitable for both classic and modern kitchens. Marble comes in a variety of colors: beige, creamy white, slate gray, and anthracite black.
Traditional marble itself is a very expensive material, and its high cost, unfortunately, is not an indicator of the quality of this material.
Pros:
- Noble material.
- Various textures and colors.
- Natural material
- Can increase the value of the property when sold.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Needs constant processing.
- Gets dirty easily.
- Cold material.
Glass for kitchen countertops
Thanks to its transparency, the glass surface makes a lasting impression when used in any room, and in particular in the kitchen.
Pros:
- Various colors and options.
- Heat-resistant.
- Easy to clean.
- Non-porous.
Cons:
- It’s better to not drop heavy things on it.
- High installation cost.
Convenient location of kitchen elements
It is worth understanding that the main role in creating a comfortable kitchen is the relative arrangement of equipment and work areas. We have prepared some tips to help make your work process in the kitchen more comfortable:
The most frequently used kitchen utensils should be placed in the working triangle, the area where the sink, refrigerator and stove are located, and whose total length of sides should not exceed 2 meters. Items that are used less often can be placed in the remaining space of the upper cabinets, on the shelves.
To create a single food storage area, it is recommended to place drawers and cabinets near the refrigerator.
One of the common solutions is to place all appliances related to the cooking process, such as microwaves, ovens, and stoves, on one side of the kitchen.
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