Nine times out of ten, if you go visit a friend at their home, you will find that they have a granite countertop in their kitchen and even in their bathrooms. However, over the years, the amount of countertop surface materials has grown, with so many more to choose from today. Therefore, if you are remodeling or your space or building a whole new one from scratch, know that there are options available that will not only fit the design of your space better but which will also take a much smaller chunk out of your wallet. Keep on reading to learn more about some of today’s best countertop materials.
Quartz Countertops
One of the alternatives that is probably the most similar to granite is quartz. However, unlike granite, it isn’t a natural stone but is rather man-made. As a result, it requires less maintenance and yet it is still just as stunning. In addition, it is heat, scratch, crack, and stain resistant while it is also stronger than granite. It’s important to note, though, that since it is engineered, therefore, there is no such thing as a unique slab as they are produced in a very uniform manner. That being said, there is such a large variety of both colors, patterns, styles, and designs to choose from. In fact, you are even able to find some that resemble natural materials such as marble, too! Another huge advantage includes the fact that engineered quartz isn’t porous, therefore, unlike any natural stones like granite, it never actually has to be sealed for protection.
Soapstone Countertops
Another up and coming alternative is soapstone. Similar to granite, it is a natural stone and there are a variety of colors to choose from ranging from a light grey all the way to a dark green, almost black color. Now, although it is a softer and more malleable surface, it still isn’t porous so maintaining it easier as it doesn’t need regular sealing. In addition, it resists well against both stains as well as acidic materials. It’s important to note, however, that due to its softness, it tends to scratch more and more deeply. The lighter surfaces also tend to darken with time; sometimes, you’ll even find them getting a patina finish. You’ll also have to take into account seams because any slab larger than 7 feet requires visible seams.
Wooden Countertops
Wooden countertops have gained quite a bit of traction lately, especially simple butcher blocks as well as those that are custom-made. This is due to the fact that the materials bring a lot of warmth and balance to a space, while it is also simply very pleasing to the eye. That being said, though, they do require a lot more maintenance than some of the other materials available. This simply has to do with the fact that wood can get damaged from both heat and moisture much easier, therefore, it requires to be sealed on a monthly basis. A great bonus to it, though, is the fact that it can easily be refinished should something happen to it, ensuring that it can stay good as new for a long time.
Stainless Steel Countertops
Stainless steel countertops are very popular in kitchens because they are very resistant to things such as heat, rust, as well as stains. In addition, they are quite simple to clean and they will never be able to soak up and then house any kind of bacteria, making it especially sanitary for the kitchen. However, it does get scratched up pretty easily which is why it is recommended that in the case that you need to cut something, you utilize a cutting board. In addition, many suggest using a brushed stainless finish in order to help make the scratches less noticeable.
Concrete Countertops
Concrete countertops have seen a lot of changes ever since they first came out. Today, they make a really great choice for the reason that there is an unlimited amount of colors, patterns, sizes, shapes, and designs to choose from. In addition, they have evolved a lot over time which is why they no longer get cracked or chip with ease thanks to new technologies. On top of that, it is quite strong while it is also both heat and stain resistant. What’s worth pointing out is that utilizing a concrete countertop in your space is definitely one of the cheapest alternatives available. What’s more, is the fact that concrete countertops cost even less if you end up making them yourself. Indeed, being able to do a DIY concrete countertop project is not only less expensive, but it is also quite rewarding of a process as you end up personalizing it just the way that you would like it to be.
Therefore, if you are interested in learning more about how to DIY concrete countertops, visit our website, Concrete Countertop Solutions, as you can find numerous guides and tutorials on our page. In addition, our site works as a one-stop-shop for all things concrete, making your DIY project so much easier to do as you not only can find everything that you’ll need in one place but also you can ensure that your concrete countertop comes out quality made.
Conclusion
Despite the fact that granite countertop surfaces are pretty popular, don’t let that keep you from looking into all of the other options available today. Indeed, you really want to take into consideration how often you are willing to reseal your countertop as well as how much use it will most likely see. You’ll probably want your countertop to last you, so you want to make sure that it will be able to withstand all of your usage. In fact, keep in mind that just as all of the other materials available, granite boasts a number of disadvantages that may really not cater to what you are looking for. For example, it is one of the most expensive materials, it needs to be sealed on a regular basis, it has to be installed by a professional, and there is a chance that it will crack. In addition, there are only so many colors and patterns that you can choose from since, after all, it is a naturally made countertop surface!
