Your kitchen countertops are integral to your kitchen. You use your counters to prepare ingredients for meals and store appliances you use frequently. Occasionally, perhaps you even have quick meals on your counters.
Considering your counters take up a lot of kitchen real estate, they can stick out like a sore thumb if they’re old, dated, or worn out. If you want to install new counters in your kitchen to spruce it up, there are several things you’ll need to consider. Here are some key things to consider before scheduling a countertop installation.
Aesthetics
When choosing a countertop option, you’ll need to consider your style preferences. Countertops can define the entire look of your kitchen, so you’ll need to think carefully about the material you want.
Ideally, you’ll want to pick a countertop material that complements your kitchen’s colors. You may also want to select a countertop option that creates a cohesive look across the rooms in your home.
For instance, For instance, stainless steel counters can be an excellent option if you want an industrial and modern feel. On the other hand, if you want something more traditional and rustic, you may prefer wood countertops.
Maintenance
While you should keep style top of mind when choosing a countertop option, you shouldn’t disregard substance. Some materials are easier to maintain than others, so you’ll need to think carefully about upkeep.
If you can’t keep up with regular maintenance, you may want to opt for non-porous countertop options like quartz, solid surface, or stainless steel, as they don’t require regular sealing to keep them in tip-top condition.
Durability
Generally, most kitchen countertops can last for several years if they’re well-maintained. However, some materials are more durable than others. If you want long-lasting counters, quartz, granite, and tile are excellent options.
Ease of Installation
Some countertop materials are easier to install than others. If you’re a seasoned DIYer, you may find installing materials like laminate and ceramic tile relatively simple.
However, don’t attempt to perform a DIY
if you aren’t an experienced DIYer. While online tutorials can make installations seem fairly straightforward, they can quickly get complex without the proper technical know-how.
So, if you aren’t a seasoned DIYer, consider hiring a professional countertop installer. Hiring a professional can save you the hassle of figuring out how to install countertops correctly and prevent you from making costly mistakes.
Budget
Not all countertop materials are created equal. Besides looks, the price varies from one material to another. Therefore, when selecting a counter material, you’ll need to determine how much you want to spend. Fortunately, there’s a countertop material for just about every budget.
If you have a large budget, premium options like quartz and marble may appeal to you. On the other hand, if you have a mid-range budget, you may prefer materials like stainless steel or modular granite. Finally, if you have a slim budget, laminate and concrete tile are worthwhile options.
Popular Countertop Materials
Now that you’re familiar with what to consider when installing kitchen countertops, you probably have some countertop options in mind. Here are some pros and cons of some of the most popular counter materials.
Granite
Granite is one of the most popular natural stone countertop options. Renowned for its distinct look, granite is available in various colors, patterns, and textures.
Pros
Heavy and durable. Offers decent heat, stain, and scratch resistance.
Suitable for various kitchen styles due to its variety of color and pattern options.
Popular among many homebuyers.
Cons
Relatively costly compared to other countertop materials.
Fairly challenging to install. Granite countertop installation must be performed by professionals.
Requires regular sealing to keep it stain-free.
Marble
Marble is another popular natural stone countertop material. Prized for its beauty, it’s a top high-end option.
Pros
Looks more luxurious than other counter materials, making it great for high-end kitchens.
Available in a variety of hues and patterns to suit several kitchen styles.
Cons
Costlier than many other countertop materials.
Susceptible to scratches because it’s very soft.
Susceptible to stains, so it requires regular sealing to keep it in good condition.
Quartz
Previously uncommon in many homes, quartz has quickly become one of the most popular countertop materials. Made from crushed quartz stone combined with resin, it’s an artificial material that almost looks like natural stone.
Pros
Incredibly durable and tougher than other countertop materials.
Easy to maintain because it doesn’t require regular sealing or polishing.
Bacteria and stain-resistant.
Cons
Costlier than many other counter options.
Difficult to install. Quartz countertop installation must be done by pros.
Offers low heat resistance compared to granite.
Laminate
Laminate is a versatile countertop material. Made primarily from plastic, it can mimic the appearance of various materials.
Pros
Affordable than other countertop options.
Relatively easy to install, making it suitable for DIY countertop installations.
Available in various colors and styles.
Cons
Unappealing to some home buyers because of its “cheap” appearance.
Chips, scratches, and peels easily compared to other counter options.
Professional Countertop Installation in Orlando
Your kitchen countertops take up a lot of space in your kitchen. So if they look unsightly, they can ruin the aesthetic of your entire kitchen. If you want to replace your countertops, contact us today for a free estimate and schedule a countertop installation.
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