The selection of a countertop is one of the hardest decisions when remodeling a kitchen. You’re confronted with such a variety of surfaces and colors it can make your head spin.
The style of kitchen cabinetry will be an influencing factor, but you’ll still be left with a tough choice about the countertop you want to work on and live with.
This list of criteria may help with your decision-making process.
Looking good
If you don’t love the look of a countertop, you’ll never be happy with it. While you shouldn’t judge everything on its appearance, I believe you’d be justified on this occasion.
Be natural
Interior designers always steer you towards natural materials rather than manufactured solutions. Granite, marble and limestone are favorites, but they’re not cheap. Artificial stone is excellent value and easy to maintain. Be aware, there are health concerns around the dust they create when a worker cuts a bench to size for you.
Wipe-down factor
Do not underestimate the pleasure of having a countertop that doesn’t need wiping down every time someone lays a finger on it. Be aware that black will show all the grease and finger marks.
On trend
You’ll likely get the biggest wow factor from a marble countertop because folks love the natural colors and veining. It’s also been at the top of the fashion stakes for years, and it shows no sign of being toppled. But you pay for this level of luxury. Quartz is another winner.
Practical play
Engineered stone, such as quartzite, is an excellent choice if you have a young family and want to minimize the risk of scratching and staining. Heat-resistant, it won’t mark or crack if you put a hot pot on it. And spills of lemon and pineapple juice will not stain. That’s not true of all options.
Research
Ask lots of questions when visiting retailers or talking to kitchen designers. Ask about the origins of the material and whether countertops scratch, are heat-resistant or will suffer staining from spills of turmeric, lemon and pineapple juice and red wine.