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Welcome to our design blog!
Today, we will be looking at different countertop materials for your kitchen.
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Kitchen countertops are one of the most used surfaces in your home. If you are in the market for a new countertop, there are many different materials to choose from making it difficult to make a decision. In this week's post, we will be discussing five materials you could use for your kitchen countertop.
Quartz
Cost: $55-$155 per square foot (depending thickness, finish, and installation)
Today, quartz is by far the most popular material to use for your kitchen countertop. Quartz countertops are an engineered stone that includes mostly ground quartz mixed with resins, polymers, and pigments. This composition and process makes it easy to mimic other natural stones like granite or marble. Quartz is by far the most popular material to use for a kitchen countertop because of its many benefits. It is a low maintenance, versatile material for any kitchen. Companies, like Cambria, now offer some of their styles in a matte finish.
All About: Quartz Countertops (kitchn)
Image: decor pad (AHR Designs Interior Designers)
Granite
Cost: $45-$200 per square foot (depending on stone quality, thickness, and installation)
Though it is decreasing in popularity, granite is still a widely used countertop material. It is very strong and scratch resistant, however, it needs to be resealed about every year. There is a wide color and style range making it adjustable for many different aesthetic preferences.
All About: Granite Countertops (kitchn)
Concrete
Cost: $75-$125 per square foot (depending on fabrication specifications and installation)
Concrete countertops are used in many kitchens, but come with some controversy. No matter where it is applied, concrete can be cracked, scratched, and stained easier than engineered quartz. To prevent this from happening, homeowners must regularly apply a sealant and wipe away any food or liquid that spills on the surface. Though there is more maintenance, concrete countertops can be totally custom in shape, pattern, or color because they are specifically made for each project.
Angie's List: The Pros and Cons of Concrete Countertops
Image: Integrity Custom Woodworking
Wood / Butcher Block
Cost: $55-$200 per square foot (depending on wood selection and installation)
We have crafted and installed live-edge wood countertops for many of our clients. Both wood and butcher block countertops are a great way to add warmth to a kitchen. However, they do require some regular maintenance and care. On the upside, most scratches can be sanded away. When taken care of properly, butcher block countertops are a nice addition to any kitchen.
This Old House: All About Wood Kitchen Countertops
Soapstone
Cost: $60-$180 per square foot (depending on stone quality and installation)
You probably remember soapstone being used on lab tables in a high school or college, but not in someone's kitchen. Soapstone has many benefits that make it a great option. It is a very durable material that will hold up against heat and, like wood, scratches can be sanded away. On the other hand, there is not much flexibility with color and pattern with soapstone. If you are looking for something darker with a matte finish and low maintenance, soapstone might be an option to consider.
Countertop Investigator: 10 Pros of and 6 Cons of Soapstone Countertops
Image: for the love of a house
Do you have one of these materials as your kitchen countertop? Do you have an experience to share, pros, or cons about it? Leave a comment below!