Countertops play an important role in your kitchen. They are used for preparing food and beverages and provide surface area for housing your small kitchen appliances, equipment, and décor. However, they also dramatically influence the overall aesthetic of the space.
The challenge when remodeling your kitchen in Seattle is finding the right material for your countertops among the wide variety of options on the market. You want your selection to complement the other elements of your kitchen, like your refrigerator and other appliances, as well as the demands of your lifestyle.
Best Countertop Materials for Kitchen Remodeling
When choosing a kitchen countertop surface, there are numerous factors to take into consideration—including cost, durability, ease of maintenance, and appearance—and each selection presents a distinct set of desirable qualities. Ultimately, the “right” or “best” countertop material can vary based on the household. As you research different materials, you should also evaluate how your kitchen is used, how often, and by whom.
1. Develop Your Project Priorities
For luxury countertops in an upscale space, you may want to consider a natural stone, such as granite, marble, onyx, or quartzite. These materials tend to be on the higher end of the spectrum in terms of cost, but they are durable, long-lasting, and beautifully luscious. Granite is one of the most scratch- and heat-resistant stones available, which makes it a great fit for family kitchens or for those who want to get the most practical use from their countertops while also enjoying a touch of luxury. Marble and onyx are less durable, and quartzite countertops can be slightly porous. No matter which specific material you select, natural stone requires occasional resealing to extend its longevity.
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2. Quartz Countertops
Quartz is an engineering material created by mixing quartz particles with polymers and resin. The result is a highly durable material that resembles natural stone but requires no sealing or polishing. It's a great fit for the low-fuss cook who needs their countertops to endure constant wear and tear. Quartz countertops also hold up better against chemicals and household cleaning supplies, so it's worth considering a bathroom as well as your kitchen. However, the material is more sensitive to heat. It also tends to be in the same price range as natural stone.
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3. Terrazzo Countertops
Like quartz, terrazzo is a composite material, but it is composed of pieces of granite, marble, quartz, glass, and other materials preserved in a resin. Terrazzo was highly popular in the 1980s and has experienced a bit of a revival in the past couple of years. It’s an appropriate material for kitchen countertops because it is heat-resistant and cools down fast. It is available in tile format, as well, and it can be used for both countertops and flooring to create a sense of continuity and cohesion.
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4. Wood Countertops
Wood is a classic material that blends into a wide range of design styles, although it’s an especially good fit for a classic, farmhouse, or country chic look. Not only does it make for one of the best-looking countertops, but wood kills bacteria more quickly than other surfaces, and it’s fairly easy to maintain if sealed properly. Wood countertops are available in a wide price range, and they can be painted, stained, or left looking natural. For serious cooks, you may even consider a butcher-block countertop. The convenience of this material is that you can prep food directly on the surface. The application of special finishes and occasional oiling can help make the material more long-lasting, beautiful, and water- and heat-resistant.
5. Concrete Countertops
Concrete is a good midrange material for kitchen countertops, as it tends to be less expensive than natural stone but pricier—and more attractive—than laminate. In terms of style, concrete is less versatile than other materials. It has a distinct look making it suitable for only an industrial or contemporary design style. Concrete countertops score high for durability, but they also stain easily, which means visual perfectionists should shy away from the material.
6. Tile Countertops
Tile, whether porcelain, ceramic, or glass, is another affordable option for kitchen countertops that looks nice and is easy to clean and maintain. Tiling is available in a diverse range of colors, shapes, and styles, which enables you to find the perfect option for your Seattle kitchen remodel. You can even select tiles that mimic the look of marble, wood, or cork. It’s also heat-resistant so that it won’t be damaged by hot pots and plates. On the downside, grout lines between the individual tiles can stain and be difficult to clean, so you have to re-grout occasionally to maintain the attractive quality of your kitchen countertops.
7. Laminate Countertops
Laminate is a nonporous acrylic that comes in an almost endless variety of colors and patterns. It is often considered a budget-friendly material that doesn’t have the same prestige as stone, granite, or wood. However, it’s a good fit for family kitchens where utility is more important than appearance. Modern technology has helped make the material more durable and long-lasting, but it still can peel or chip over time and is not resistant to heat.
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Designing Your Seattle Kitchen Remodel
When you’re remodeling your kitchen in the Seattle area, there are numerous decisions to make, and each one is influenced by your personal vision and the specific needs of your household. So, contact us today! It’s important to have a remodeling team by your side that will provide the right insight and feedback to help you confidently navigate the decision-making process. At Innovative Home Renovations, our goal during the design phase is to listen to what you want and offer you the best ideas, so you are left with a kitchen you love to use for years to come.
by Bennett Bottorff