An Introduction to Counter Tops

Are you having trouble finding the right countertops? Whether you’re designing your future dream home or seeking to replace your old, worn countertops with something durable and stylish, there are several different materials to choose from, all with their own unique style, texture, and benefits.

If you haven’t considered stone countertops, you’re truly missing out on an opportunity to make your kitchen look gorgeous. There are several different types of stone to choose from, each with their unique styles and patterns.

If style is your gain, then perhaps a quartz slab is the best choice for you. This manmade material allows designers to create a wide variety of different colors and textures—they can even include flecks of glass or mirror shards in the stone to create a unique, glamorous surface.

Quartz has the added advantage of being extremely durable as well. Naturally nonabsorbent, you’ll never have to worry about stains from spilled food or liquids marring the surface. It’s also incredibly heat and scratch resistant—and when you consider that quartz is up there with topaz and sapphires in terms of hardness and strength, it’s no surprise.

If you’re looking for a more natural look for your countertops, soapstone is a nice, affordable alternative to quartz slabs. This amazing stone comes in a variety of colors, from creamy whites to dark blacks. They’re also known for being heat and stain resistant, though you’ll need to apply a mineral oil finish to keep the color from fading over time. Its soapy texture will sure to be a hit as well.

Granite is another tough, colorful stone. While you’ll need to apply a sealer to this stone to prevent staining, it is a relatively simple process that only needs to be done once a year at most. Granite comes in a variety of lovely colors, from natural grays and browns to rare blues, greens, and rosy hues.

If stone isn’t your cup of tea, wooden countertops are an affordable, beautiful alternative to stone. Their rich, warm colors and lovely texture are wonderful for adding a homey, old fashioned look to your kitchen. Amateur and professional decorators alike will enjoy their many customizable options as you experiment with staining, caramelizing, and distressing the wood. Unlike stone, the appearance and texture of wood changes over time, creating new patterns and subtle hues.

With patience and research, you can gradually narrow down your search. Regardless of the type of countertops you choose, you can rest easy in the knowledge that you are investing in materials that will last you for years. Learn more today!