Best Options For Kitchen Countertops

Tony ThomasJuly 6, 2020

The kitchen has been called the soul of a home. It is at once a laid back place to gather friends and family and a busy work area. Most homeowners want kitchen countertops to be

• Practical
• Decorative
• Durable

The following options are excellent choices for most kitchens.

Granite

As one of the hardest stones, granite can take a beating and holds up well for building and household use. Its affordability also makes it accessible.

Granite is anti-bacterial but naturally porous and must be resealed about every five years to keep it dirt, grime and stain-resistant. It is available in a variety of colors and grains, making it ideal for any style kitchen. With some simple maintenance, this material can last a lifetime.

Marble

As a natural stone, marble lends a touch of luxury to any kitchen because of its unique vein patterns and colors. However, this highly-porous material is susceptible to staining and requires resealing approximately every six months to maintain its appearance. Marble is also rich in calcium carbonate, which can react with acids found in vinegar or lemons to cause dull spots, even after brief contact. Some people like how this adds to marble’s unique appearance. Heat-resistant marble kitchen countertops can work well near stoves and can tolerate hot pans.

Quartz

If you prefer not to worry about sealing your countertops, quartz might be a great choice. Quartz countertops consist of small amounts of quartz plus a combination of non-porous materials including glass, stone, silica and other industrial remnants held together with resins. Quartz is highly resistant to stains and chips, but it is less tolerant of heat than granite or marble. If you have a contemporary aesthetic and love the look of natural stone without the upkeep, the quartz may be perfect for you.

Even though all countertop materials require some degree of maintenance, the look of stone will add elegance to any kitchen.