Sick Of Granite? Other Countertops To Consider
Posted on: 15 February 2016
Granite countertops have dominated the work surfaces of new kitchens for years. In fact, 75 percent of countertops installed in new kitchens in 2012 were granite. If you're getting sick of this seemingly default choice in new countertops, there are plenty of other options available to you.
Marble. Marble is simply stunning and often costs less than granite. However, your beautiful marble countertops will require a lot of tender loving care. Marble is softer and more porous than granite and tends to stain or scratch easily. If you don't mind putting in the extra effort, marble can give your kitchen a luxurious look.
Quartz. Quartz countertops are also called engineered stone. They're made from small bits of quartz mixed with a binder that's molded into the shape of the countertop. This super-durable material looks a lot like stone. Quartz countertops are often the final choice of countertop for marble lovers because of their beauty and durability.
Corian. This smooth solid surface is durable and can create a clean, seamless look. Corian countertops are man-made products made of 33 percent binding resins and 66 percent minerals. It comes in a wide array of color choices and can even be sanded to remove any stains or scratches that it may collect over time. It's non-porous and heat-resistant, which makes it ideal as a kitchen surface.
Butcher Block. These wooden countertops cost significantly less than granite and add natural warmth and beauty to your kitchen. Butcher block countertops add a timeless design element to a room, are durable, and can be sanded and refinished for a fresh look in the future. They're easy to maintain, benefiting from regular oiling to keep them in top shape and can make any kitchen feel like a comforting retreat.
Stainless Steel. Countertops made from this material give the kitchen a modern, industrial look that is reminiscent of professional kitchens. Stainless still is long-lasting and easy to clean. It's essentially stainproof and temperature proof. However, if fingerprints drive you nuts, you'll spend a lot of time polishing your countertops since stainless steel shows fingerprints very easily.
Laminate. Laminate has a poor reputation in the United States, but this affordable countertop option has come a long way in recent years. It can be produced in patterns that look just like stone and other natural materials. The edges of laminate countertops can now come with smooth finishes rather than showing an unsightly black line.
Granite's an excellent countertop material, but it has a tendency to hog the spotlight. These other options are worth consideration.
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