When developing your kitchen plans, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is over what type of material to use for your kitchen counter tops. There are varied options, including granite, ceramic tile, marble, concrete, laminates, engineered stone, wood, steel and soap stone kitchen counter tops. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s what you need to know:
Granite Kitchen Counter Tops
Granite counter tops often raise the value of a home as they are highly desired, and, unfortunately, expensive. They are also beautiful (hence, their high demand), good with heat, and have a long life. But granite kitchen counter tops require a lot of maintenance, including sealing, and can stain as well as crack.Engineered Stone Kitchen Counter Tops
Engineered stone is low maintenance in that it doesn’t scratch and stain that easily. It also comes in a variety of kitchen colors but it can be expensive.
Ceramic Tile Kitchen Counter Tops
Ceramic tile does well with heat, comes in a multitude of kitchen colors and is often inexpensive. But the grout that holds the tile can stain. Further, it can crack.
Laminates Kitchen Counter Tops
Laminates are a good choice if you’re looking for an inexpensive option that comes in a variety of kitchen colors. However, it can scratch and the seams to often look, no pun intended, unseemly.
Wood Kitchen Counter Tops
Wood is easy to clean, and, when stained, can be sanded to get rid of the offending mark. However, it can easily scratch.
Stainless Steel Kitchen Counter Tops
Steel offers a sleek modern look to the kitchen and withstands heated pots and pans. But it is prone to denting.
Marble Kitchen Counter Tops
Marble, like granite counter tops, offers an elegant look and, of course, is waterproof. It also relates well to heat. However, it is expensive and can scratch.
As you can see, you have many options from material to kitchen colors. Do your research. Determine your budget. Go to displays in stores to see your choices up close. Then you’ll be one step closer to your ideal kitchen plans.