How to Choose Kitchen Countertops

If you’re planning a kitchen makeover, you’re probably overwhelmed by all of the options for kitchen countertops. Before you start thinking about materials, you first need to ask yourself how you use your countertops and how much you’re willing to spend. Learn more in this HGTV video:

If you have an active family, you will probably want a durable material for your countertops; singles may prefer something trendy, hip and fun. Another consideration that will affect your choice is whether you are willing to do periodic maintenance.

Here is a quick look at different surface materials:

• Natural stone: marble, granite, soapstone – beautiful and works in almost any style from traditional to modern – durable but not stain resistant, requires periodic sealing – expensive
• Engineered stone: cambria, zodiaq, silestone – composed of quartz crystals and is easy to maintain – comes in a wider range of colors than natural stone, but is just as expensive
• Corian: solid surface that comes in lots of colors – durable, seamless and stain resistant – can scorch so do not put hot pots on them – more affordable than natural stone
• Ceramic: easy to clean, durable and inexpensive, although grout cleaning is required
• Laminates: plastic-coated synthetics that are inexpensive and available in a variety of colors, but can stain and chip
• Wood: adds a warm touch to any kitchen – easy to clean and sandable (although some may enjoy the natural beauty of scratches) – does require periodic oiling
• Stainless steel: provides a sleek industrial look – heat resistant and durable (but cannot be used for cutting) and expensive
• Concrete: a trendy choice that can be tinted, left porous or sealed, or embedded with sea shells or beads – easy to maintain but can crack – expensive

If your budget is limited, you don’t necessarily have to rule out a more expensive material. You can mix and match your styles to save money. For example, if you like marble but can’t afford it for your entire kitchen, you can use marble on just the kitchen island or on an inset or bakers station. Mixing solid surfaces with natural stone is another approach that works well if you keep to the same color family. It also makes your kitchen personable and unique.

Another choice you will need to make is your countertop edge. Straight edge is standard and comes at no extra cost. By spending a little more, you can have a slightly rounded edge that is more comfortable to lean against or a more stylish beveled or bull-nosed edge.

Once you have purchased your countertops, learn how to maintain them. Become familiar with the manufacturer’s instructions for care. Knowing ahead of time how to clean up spills will save you a panicked search for the instruction booklet.