It has been said that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and countertops are among the most impressive and important feature in the kitchen. Your countertop is often the first thing people see when they walk in the room. The countertops in your kitchen set the tone for the entire kitchen and can shape the mood for the room. When remodeling a kitchen, investing in quality kitchen countertops contributes to the resale value of a home. Stone has become increasingly popular for kitchen countertops.
In addition to the peerless durability and functionality that stone provides, stone kitchen countertops offer a unique and dynamic twist on a classic design. Depending on the material selected, stone can be used to create a modern or traditional appearance. Though an expensive item, there are a range of materials available for kitchen countertop remodeling that can be tailored to fit any budget.
This list compiles some kitchen countertop ideas for remodeling kitchens, including kitchen islands, backsplash areas and side counters:
Idea #1: Granite Kitchen Countertops
Depending on its composition, granite naturally appears in beautiful colours, most often white, pink, or gray with distinctive natural veining. Used inside and outside homes for millennia, granite is notable for its endurance and durability. The long lifespan translates into good value for lasting performance.
Granite also requires little maintenance. The beauty, longevity and versatility of granite come at a premium, as it is more expensive than other stones. Sealing is required to keep from staining and other measures should be taken to prevent chipping and other damage,
Idea #2: Marble Kitchen Countertops
Since antiquity, marble has been used to convey luxury. Marble is beautiful and available in a range of unique patterns and colours. Though a durable and impressive material, marble is more delicate and needs more delicate care than other materials. Marble kitchen countertops have specific requirements for sealing, use, cleaning and other care.
When properly looked after, marble will last for decades. Marble is best for less intense kitchen environments and not recommended for children, as it stains easily. The value of a well-kept marble kitchen countertop does not depreciate over time, making it a positive investment that contributes to the total value of a home.
Idea #3: Quartz Kitchen Countertops
Quartz kitchen countertops offer an attractive natural appearance. Quartz is a mineral composed of silicon and oxygen that occurs naturally arranged in an attractive crystal-like formation. Quartz kitchen countertops are engineered mixing 90% quartz with resin to create the appearance of stone. Quartz comes in a range of attractive colours and unique patterns, and can be made to look like granite or marble. One of the hardest known substances on earth, quartz is twice as strong as granite.
This makes it excellent for countertops. It also does not have the maintenance demands of other materials, and it will not need to be regularly resealed. Modern manufacturing makes quartz countertops seamless without the pores or cracks that are found in granite. Because it is nonporous, quartz is hygienic and resistant to bacteria making it ideal for commercial purposes.
Idea #4: Slate Kitchen Countertops
Slate is a metamorphic rock formed as shale clay and volcanic ash sediment over time. Slate is less commonly used in kitchen countertops, but nevertheless makes an ideal substance for its impressive appearance, durability, and stain-resistant nonporous finish. Slate is generally less expensive than other stones. Slate is versatile. Slate kitchen countertops are low maintenance and resistant to high temperatures, stains and other damage like chipping.
Idea #5: Concrete Kitchen Countertops
Concrete is a unique material that casts a dramatic impression. It is often less expensive than premier tier stone kitchen countertops. Modern architects sometimes select for concrete kitchen countertops. It also will last a long time. Concrete is tough and able to resist heat, staining, and superficial damage like denting and scratches. Concrete can come in many different colours and easy to clean with little maintenance.
Idea #6: Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are a hard thick material composed of clays and minerals that have been fired in a kiln. They are common in Mexico and American Southwest, and they create a southwestern vibe wherever they appear. Using ceramic tiles has become very popular in kitchens everywhere, especially for kitchen islands and backsplashes. Ceramic tiles make a fine choice for kitchen countertops because they are durable, and heat and water resistant.
As a kitchen countertop, they are most often installed over a plywood surface. If you properly glaze them during installation, they are stain resistant and long-lasting. They are also among the most affordable options available, and their versatility introduces a range of design options. If tiles crack, those tiles will have to be replaced. Also, simpler designs will cost less that complex mosaic patterns.
Idea #7: Classic Butcher Block
If you are not interested in stone, wooden butcher blocks make a fine selection for kitchen counter surfaces. Made using different hard woods like maple or teak, butcher blocks are a dependable and attractive lower cost choice. Wood is warm and inviting. It will not last as long as stone and it needs to be stained and varnished to protect against damage and staining. Damage can be sanded out and the block resealed.