The look of a fine kitchen countertop directly connected
to the materials from which it was built. Different countertop
materials will give your entire kitchen a whole different
look and feel. Popular kitchen countertop materials include,
granite, formica™ plastic laminates, ceramic tile,
butcher block countertops, corian or stainless steel.
Granite Countertops;
are popular on account of their natural beauty. Granite
remains a favorite as a countertop material since it is
heat resistant and durable. Stone countertops are rugged
and long lasting. Marble, limestone and slate are other
natural stones that are used for kitchen counters. Marble
is not as durable as granite while limestone can stain easily.
Average price of stone countertops range from $50 to $100.
sq. foot. Disadvantage
Formica™ Countertops: Laminate countertops
are affordable and easy to install. They are impact resistant
and cost anywhere between $10 and $30 per linier foot. Laminates
are stain resistant and easy to maintain. But such countertops
are susceptible to scratches and cracks and blisters if
hot items are placed on it.
Tile Countertops: Tiles made of ceramic,
porcelain or natural stone or mosaic tiles are used to create
new kitchen countertops. Typically ceramic tile countertops
range from about $2 to $whatever you want to pay for a tile.
Tiles are inexpensive and come in a wide range of colors,
designs and textures. The disadvantages of installing a
new kitchen tile countertop are un uneven surface, chipping
and exposed seaming between tiles.
Corian Counters: have become synonymous
with elegance, durability and versatility. These countertops
are stain resistant and easy to clean. Available in stunning
colors and finishes.
Stainless Steel Countertops: For contemporary
lovers, take a look at the various stainless steel countertop
options. Stainless steel kitchen countertops are tough and
easy to clean. They also give kitchens a very modern, high-tech
and spotless feeling. The cost of stainless steel countertops
varies from about $ 80 to $ 100 per square foot.
Wood butcher-block Countertops: Wooden
countertops lend a warm and elegant look to the kitchen.
They are ideal for cutting and chopping. They are sensitive
to humidity and can scorch easily.
Concrete countertops; Made entirely of
natural materials, this hardened mixture of water, cement,
sand, stone and pigment isn’t just for your basement
floor anymore. The counters can be pre-cast to fit a mold
or cast on site.
Concrete must be sealed properly to resist stains and water
damage.
