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7 Materials For Creating The Perfect Kitchen Countertop
The kitchen countertop has to be able to take a lot of abuse
including the heat of pots, cutting from knives and the use of abrasive
cleansers. The ideal countertop should be able to stand up to heat and
the sharp edge of a knife.
Let us take a look at 7 of the most popular kitchen countertop
materials being used today:
Granite - A natural stone, granite is a popular
choice for it’s classic beauty and durability. Granite is the hardest
and densest of the natural stones. It can create a kitchen countertop
that is extremely scratch resistant and can keep its luster longer than
most other materials. granite slabs are the most
expensive of all kitchen countertop surfaces, although it is still considered
to be a very practical material in that it is virtually indestructible.
Marble – Another natural stone, marble is considered
to be the height of elegance and will last longer than most kitchens.
It is however, is very expensive and requires some care: acidic foods
such as orange juice will etch the finished surface of a marble kitchen
countertop.
Slate – Because of it richness and beauty slate
is usually used in interior applications such as kitchen countertops,
bathroom sinks or fireplace surrounds. It can be used in either modern
or traditional kitchens as well as in combination with marble. Slate
is durable and strong material, and can withstand hard use. It is less
expensive than marble
Concrete – This is one of the biggest trends
in kitchen countertops today. It is a good look for clean, industrial
and contemporary kitchen designs. Available in pre formed sections or
poured and formed on-site. Concrete is a good material for unusually
shaped counters. Concrete
kitchen countertops are expensive, require a sealant and must be treated
with care. The countertop can crack if the concrete should contract.
Concrete can be stained any color. The most popular color is a natural
gray tone. The top layer can be finished as desired.
Corian – This is a solid surface material that
first became popular in the 1990’s It is highly recommended by kitchen
countertop experts. It is a totally man made product and is not porous.
As a solid surface it can easily be repaired if scratched or burned.
Stainless Steel – The Advantages of stainless
steel include very hygienic, easy to clean, has ability to stand up
to extreme wear and heat.
Stainless steel can provide a great look for an ultra modern kitchen.
Some disadvantages with stainless is that it can be noisy and that scratches
can develop.
Tile – Tile surfaces can be tough, hard-wearing,
takes hot pans, heat and stain resistant as well as beautiful. There
are many types of tiles including ceramic, porcelain, quarry, glass,
natural stone and mosaic. Available in many colors, sizes and textures.
It has good design flexibility. Tile can often be used for trim or back
splashes. The downside of tile is that the grouts can be easily stained.
Also the tiles can become chipped or cracked.
James Mahoney is the author of many kitchen design
articles and has a site about kitchen design ideas at Kitchen
Designers Ideas.com. He also publishes a newsletter on kitchen design.
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