If you’re building your own home or the scratches and stains on the countertops in your existing one can no longer be ignored, there are many options available to fit any lifestyle and budget. When you’re remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, your choice of countertops helps to set the tone for the room whether you want to suggest warmth or a cool finish. Whether your eye fancies stone, stainless steel, wood, stone-synthetic composites, or other solid surface materials, you’re likely to be amazed at the options within each of those choices. Here are a few of the pros and cons of each:
Granite
Granite is found all over the world and comes in a wide variety of colors determined by the location where it was quarried and the geological factors that created it. It is graded based on factors such as: acid resistance, density, water absorption, and strength. A granite surface is almost impossible to harm with a hot pan and is resistant to scratches but it must be sealed on a yearly basis and is prone to staining if spills are not cleaned up promptly. If the weight of the material is a concern, it is common to have a ¾-inch slab of granite installed with a wood substrate to preserve the look without the need for additional structural support. Costs vary from $50 to $200 per square foot and up.
Wood
All types of wood countertops lend warmth to a kitchen and it is a popular choice as it complements cabinetry well for a uniform look. However, wood requires regular treatments with mineral oil to preserve its appearance, especially near sinks, and can be ruined easily with food stains or a carelessly placed hot pan. Chefs prize wood for its sanitary properties as it wicks moisture away from the surface, which deters bacterial growth. Wood countertops run from $40 to over $100 per square foot installed.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel has been coming into vogue recently as more and more appliances are available with stainless finishes. It is the most durable material for countertops as its finish cannot be marred by heat and it is highly resistant to scratches and food stains. It lends a sleek look to any kitchen and requires little maintenance except for occasional cleaning with a soapy sponge or a stainless aerosol polish. Depending on the finish, stainless countertops begin at $50 and can run as high as $125 or more per square foot.
Stone-Synthetic Composites
Stone-synthetic composites or “engineered” stone countertops are another choice favored by many for the variety of colors and textures available. It is often made from quartz particles bound with epoxy or acrylic for a finish that has the look and depth of real stone. Composite countertops tend to be a bit pricier than other options beginning at around $110 to well over $200 per square foot but they are heat, stain, and scratch resistant and typically include sinks integrated for a seamless finish. |
