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Your New Kitchen Countertops: Controlling Costs
by Jami J. Rodgers
For a high-end look the best kitchen countertops available today are granite and marble. Both are elegant and add sophistication to your kitchen. The downside is, of course, the cost. Granite and marble do make the best natural kitchen countertops but are among the most expensive materials. Both materials can withstand heat and are typically installed in large pieces, so the surfaces are smooth compared to a tiled kitchen countertop. You will need to be sure they are sealed properly to resist staining. Regular cleaning and periodic sealing are required to keep your kitchen countertops looking new.
Here's a rundown of the advantages and disadvantages of other kitchen countertop materials and their relative pricing.
These kitchen countertops are engineered from composite materials and usually require professional installation. Any irregularities on the surface can be removed by sanding. It's both durable and easy to care for but the price per linear foot can be is relatively expensive compared to other alternatives.
These kitchen countertops are made with quartz particles and are available in a myriad of colors. The surface is impermeable and does not require sealing. Like solid service countertops, these must be professionally installed which adds significantly to the cost.
This kitchen countertop material is relatively inexpensive, easy to clean, and durable. It can withstand heat from hot pans, and may be installed by a homeowner. The various colors, textures, and styles of tile allow you to customize your kitchen countertop.
This is a plastic-coated synthetic material that is cut-to-size for installation. It is easy to clean but damage is hard to repair. Because it is installed in sheets, seaming can show--decreasing the aesthetic appeal.
This material can be sanded and resealed as needed, and is not as expensive as stone, but is difficult to keep sanitary. It offers a warm look and a "homey" alternative to laminate and tile countertops.
This material imparts a contemporary and modern look to your new kitchen. Countertops are tailored for your space and are seamless. They must be kept polished to look their best and scratch easily. This unique look is expensive to install and is done professionally.
Whatever materials you go with, consider carefully your budgetary constraints and your priorities when choosing your new countertops and you'll enjoy years of satisfaction with your new kitchen countertops.
Jami J. Rodgers is a freelance writer with a B.S. in Spanish with a business option and an international studies minor from The Pennsylvania State University.
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