Countertops come in a wide variety of materials, each with its benefits and drawbacks. Materials that countertops are made of include quartz, marble, granite, limestone, soapstone, formica, wood, laminate, recycled glass, metal, concrete, tile, and even recycled paper composite. Each one has unique looks, pros, cons, and costs. Which ever countertop suits you, Dream Kitchen and Baths can help.
Natural stone countertops are very durable and come in an assortment of stone types, as well as colors. These stones include granite, marble, soapstone, and limestone. Natural stone has a classic look that will never go out of style. Natural stone countertops don’t come in solid colors or repeating patterns due to the It is heat-resistant and durable. This material will last you a very long time. When installed the naturally porous material will need to be sealed. It will need to be resealed from time to time. Natural stone can be easily damaged by acids in common household items such as hairspray. Marble and limestone countertops my chip or crack. It is a very expensive material.
Quartz countertops have the look and feel of natural stone. It is a blend of quartz and small amounts of pigment to provide various colors, textures, and graining. Quartz can come in patterns that match each other, as well as solid colors. It is heat, stain and scratch-resistant, as it is the hardest of all countertop surfaces. Unlike natural stone, it is resistant to acids. Quartz countertops are very easy to clean and requires no maintenance. Quartz has a different look than natural stone, but costs nearly the same. Many people are choosing this new alternative to granite. It is generally less expensive than natural stone.
Solid-surfacing countertops, such as formica, mimic the look of natural stone, but are less expensive and also less durable. They do not require the maintenance that natural stone requires. Solid-surfacing countertops can come in a variety of designs and colors. They can even be made to resemble glass or concrete counters. They are heat and water resistant. It is easy to change at a low cost for less money. Solid-surface counters are easy to clean and won’t fade or age over time. It can be scorched as easier than natural stone or quartz countertops. It is very easy to scratch but is stronger than some other laminates.
Laminate countertops are covered with a thin plastic resin covering plywood or particleboard. It allows for a cheap alternative to wood, stone, or metal countertops. It is heat, stain and scratch-resistant, but not as strong as the natural countertops. However, it can be easily damaged by knives, and hot pans. It can be scorched and cracked, and damages are irreversible. Less and less people choose laminates today for their kitchens.
Recycled glass countertops are eco-friendly, as well as beautiful. It can come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. This countertop material may be hard to find, but it is durable and easy to clean. It is heat and stain resistant. However, it can chip, scratch, or break from hard hits and smashes.
Paper composite countertops consist of recycled paper, resin, and pigments. Although hard to come by, it is easy to clean and durable. However, it can be easily stained or scratched.
Wooden counters are very common. They are strong and durable, and can be great for cooking prep areas. It is good for cutting and chopping, and does not dull the knives in the process. Wood counters also last a long time. Wood is vulnerable to moisture, heat, corrosive chemicals, acids, and stains. Sealing and maintenance is required.
Metal countertops, while expensive, are very strong. Stainless steel may match many of the appliances in your kitchen. Other metals used in countertops include pewter, copper, and zinc. Metal countertops are anti-bacterial. The metals used in counters are heat and stain resistant. These counters may be susceptible to dents and slight scratches. The other metals are also weaker than stainless steel.
Concrete countertops are strong and adaptable to the look of the room. It can be colored and sculpted to look any way needed. It is heat and stain resistant, but requires extra work and care. This includes periodic sealing. Like natural stone, it is very vulnerable to acids. It is also extremely heavy and should be supported more than other styles of countertops.
Durable and colorful; tiles are a great way to customize your countertop space. It is a very inexpensive option. They come in a plethora of different sizes, colors, shapes and textures to give you the countertop you want. They are heat, moisture, stain, and scratch resistant. However, the tiles may chip or crack. The tiles may be resistant to resistant to mildew and stains, but the grout is not, and requires cleaning from time to time.
Whether for your kitchen or bathroom, we will help you pick out and put in whatever countertop you choose. Contact us to set up an appointment