Choosing the right kitchen countertop can be tricky and expensive sometimes. Before splurging on such a big update, check out the pros and cons of the top kitchen countertop materials to help you select the right one for your space !
SOLID SURFACE
A composite material, solid surface offers various benefits that have made it a popular material among homeowners.
Pros: This man-made material comes in a host of colors, so you can find something that suits your tastes easily. It is durable and easy to maintain. One of its perks is its absence of joint lines, so it is sought after for L-shaped kitchens. You can even join it seamlessly with a sink in the same material. If there are scratches and stains, buffing the surface will freshen it up.
Cons: While it is fairly durable, direct heat and sharp objects can damage the surface. Small cuts and scratches are more visible on dark surfaces. Note that not all solid surface materials are made equal. Look for blends with more acrylic content for greater durability.
ENGINEERED QUARTZ
Predominantly made of quartz - more than 90 per cent - and mixed with polymers, resins and pigments, this is a premium surface that is also hard wearing.
Pros: Heats-, stain- and scratch-resistant, quartz offers fuss-free use even in kitchens that are used daily. The smooth surfaces are easy to clean. Quartz also comes in a variety of colors and patterns, so it offers a good range of options for your desired kitchen style.
Cons: While it is resistant to heat, like all stones, it can be damaged by sudden and extreme temperature changes. In L-shaped or large kitchens, there may be joint lines, depending on the size of the slabs. This would require extra care and cleaning. Price wise, quartz can be a hefty investment for the kitchen.
GRANITE
Think of granite and durability comes to mind. The patterns on granite make it a much-loved option too.
Pros: Granite comes in light and dark colors, offering design flexibility. Heat- and scratch- resistant, granite is a hardy option for the kitchen.
Cons: That said, it is a material that can chip or crack from impact. A porous material, granite requires yearly sealing to resist to resit liquids and stains. Aside from its premium price, also note that it will have joint lines in L- or U shaped kitchens.
MARBLE
This natural stone, with its veins and swirls, offers beauty loved by many. It it also a premium material that, however, requires tender loving care.
Pros: Beautiful and striking, marble elevates the look of the home by virtue of its distinct grains. Therefore, the standout material is perfect for open-concept or dry kitchen.
Cons: Marble counter-tops are high maintenance. It stains and scratches easily, so it's not ideal for curry and wine lovers. To minimize such issues, coat the marble with a sealant once a year or twice if you do heavy cooking. One of the more expensive counter-top materials, it can be a significant investment.
STAINLESS STEEL
Looks inside commercial kitchens such as those in hotels and restaurants, and you will see stainless steel counter-tops. Stainless steel is ubiquitous in industrial kitchens for many reasons, and many homeowners are taking ideas from them.
Pros: Aside from being non-porous, stainless steel is resistant to water, heat and stains. It is also hygienic, fighting bacteria, mould and germs. Stainless steel counters look elegant too, and the shiny surfaces help to reflect light to make the kitchen look larger.
Cons: It scratches easily and can be prone to dents if it is not installed properly and be met with knocks and pointed objects, Some stainless steel surfaces show more smudges and fingerprints than others. It can be noisy too.
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