Comparing Different Countertop Materials For Your Kitchen

Chances are, the more options you have, the more confused you will be when it comes to making decisions. The same holds true for kitchen countertops. With materials like granite, marble, soapstone, limestone, and quartz existing in the marketplace, you may not be able to pinpoint exactly what you want unless you research a little about all types of countertops. Here is a detailed look at the different options that you have:

1. Granite Countertops

Traditionally, granite has been a highly favored material when it comes to making countertops. This is primarily because granite features unique patterns and colors, offers a lasting value, and provides the kind of durability that has been proven all around.

A granite countertop is made from a natural stone that is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It is also highly difficult to damage granite provided you follow proper procedures for care of your countertop. You can, hence, use granite for any project that you may have, both inside and outside your house including floors and walls.

2. Limestone, Marble, And Travertine Countertops

These options hold a kind of elegance and beauty that no other stone is likely to offer. And the best part is that there are numerous different patterns, combinations, and colors available. They all happen to be softer as compared to granite and, therefore, they are more susceptible to scratches and etching.  Keeping this in mind, you will probably only consider these options for minimally abused areas like bathrooms.

Marble is not generally very porous or particularly easily stained.  Polished marble requires minimal maintenance and will be almost completely stain proof, although we do recommend annual sealing.  However, due to it’s softness, etching is a common problem and special care should be given when heavy or sharp objects are placed on marble surfaces.

Gourmet Kitchen with designer upgrades including travertine

Travertine is quite similar to marble in terms of its characteristics and qualities. And just the same way as marble, it is recommended that you carefully consider its softness when using this material for your kitchen countertop.

Limestone also lies within the same category. However, it is much softer and will, therefore, gets scratch marks.

Before deciding upon any of these options, you should carefully consider that all can be susceptible to stains and etching from abrasive cleaners.  Never use an acidic or abrasive cleaner. We do recommend annual sealing to minimize staining and maintenance. And special care should always be given when heavy or sharp objects are placed on these surfaces.

3. Quartz Countertops

Engineered stone, commonly called “Quartz”, can make an excellent kitchen or vanity countertop. Quartz is manufactured using a binding resin and 93% quartz. These countertops are quite similar in nature to granite and used due to its strong and resilient nature. Manufacturer’s marketing efforts, because of the similarities, have created a great deal of confusion in distinguishing between the two materials.

Quartz countertops are also very eco-friendly since they are amazing for preserving high air quality indoors, emitting only a few volatile organic compounds, and are extremely nonallergenic and nontoxic for human beings. A countertop made from this material can also last a lifetime, thereby making it extremely cost effective and a worthy investment.  IMPORTANT: Be sure to check with the manufacturer before using in an outdoors environment.

4.Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone happens to be a natural, non-porous, and relatively soft stone. However, despite being soft, it is extremely resilient. Soapstone is a dark stone, commonly black in color, and featuring a honed surface. Additionally, soapstone also happens to be a great heat insulator and is why numerous people who cook love countertops made from this stone.

Soapstone is also a great vanity countertop material due to it’s durability. Due to its density, the stone is virtually impenetrable by all things, and this includes stains as well as bacteria. You will also find many wood burning stoves and sinks made from this material. Soapstone has been in use since the 1800s, so you can rest assured that countertops made from soapstone will be a lifetime investment.

If you are interested in upgrading your kitchen countertop or remodeling your kitchen completely, there are many kitchen design ideas that you can look into. For starters, the internet is filled with different ideas that can help give you a completely new perspective. However, if you still feel lost, then you can always check back with us to find out how we can help you save money while getting the most value in your renovation.

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April 28, 2016