Countertop Options
Choosing a countertop surface for your new kitchen, whether it is actually new or remodeled, involves several considerations including lifestyle, aesthetics and budget for the project. Some of our surface options include Laminate, Solid Surface, Granite and Quartz.
Color, texture, grain pattern-including the wood in the cabinetry, all play important roles in coordinating counter tops with the other design components. Laminate countertops are made from a thin surface of high pressure laminate that is applied to a base of particle board. Laminate is a durable, inexpensive surface with many options, but also has a couple caveats as listed below.
Benefits:
- Durable, inexpensive surface
- Hundreds of colors and patterns to choose from
- Many styles including diamond, bevel, postform and square edge
Limitation:
Laminate can be burned by hot utensils
Laminate is not a good choice for a cutting surface
Acrylic solid surface counter tops offer seamless easy care surfaces, that often can imitate such products as marble or granite. Solid surface countertops can be durable and elegant, but also can cost as much as granite.
Benefits:
- Durable, yet Elegant finish
- Stain resistant against most every day stains
- Scratches can be restored to original state
Limitations:
- Heat can cause tops to crack. Homeowners must use trivets to prevent direct heat.
Granite or natural stone is considered to be the oldest building product known to man. It can add both elegance and permanence to modern construction. Granite tops are durable, low maintenance, stain resistant and come in a variety of custom finishes and edging. For homeowners, granite also offers a great return on investment as the kitchen design and functionality often determine the sell-a-bility of a home.
Benefits:
- Elegant finish, one of the most sought after countertop surfaces
- Low maintenance, it is recommended to seal the surface periodically
- Variety of patterns and custom edging
Quartz is the newer entry into the countertop world, featuring dramatic colors, elegant beauty and refined textures. Quartz crystals create a stronger, more consistent surface than natural stone and quartz is also easier to maintain.
Benefits:
- Many distinctive textures and stones
- Variety of custom edging
- Very durable finish
- Resistant to scratches and chips
- Stains cannot penetrate the non-porous surface
- Non-porous surface does not require periodic sealing
