Kitchen Countertops Materials You Need to Know About

by | Dec 15, 2017 | Kitchen Countertops, Kitchen Renovations | 0 comments

Kitchen Countertops London Ontario

When you are planning to remodel your kitchen, there is a list of things that you have to decide on. One of the most important being what countertop surface material you want to have. The decision of which countertop surface material you want to use is important because each material has its own inherent physical properties, suggested use and maintenance guidelines, design applications, and relative cost. Just like any other kind of material, countertop materials are often susceptible to wear and tear during normal use. They can also scratch, edge or stain. This guide to kitchen countertop surfaces will assist you in your decision to choose the right kitchen countertop surface materials for you.

 

Laminate

Pros

Cons

Cost

  • Low price point.
  • It can be purchased in a wide variety of colors and styles.
  • Laminate is durable enough to withstand everyday use.
  • Laminate is not as durable as natural stone.
  • It is not nearly as heat resistant as other material options.
  • Depending on the stain laminate can be quite difficult to clean.
Generally, laminate countertops cost between $10 to $30 per square foot, once installed.

Engineered Stone Also known as Quartz

Pros

Cons

Cost

  • Low maintenance.
  • It does not need to be sealed.
  • Engineered stone is heat and scratch proof.
  • It is also extremely easy to customize.
  • Engineered stone can chip quite easily.
  • Sometimes it shows visible seams where pieces meet.
Usually, engineered stone costs somewhere between $35 to $100 per square foot once installed.

Marble

Pros

Cons

Cost

  • Marble is always in style and looks luxurious.
  • It can be purchased in a wide array of colors.
  • Marble can scratch and stain very easily.
The cost of marble ranges anywhere from $50 to $150 per square foot, once installed.

 

Granite

Pros

Cons

Cost

  • Requires very little maintenance
  • Granite is stain, water and heat once sealed.
  • Very heavy and needs to be well supported
  • Granite can chip or crack if the material is too thin
  • Limited colour variety
  • Final colours sometimes vary from the sample pieces.
The general price range for granite countertops is $35 to $200 per square foot, installed.

Butcher Block

Pros

Cons

Cost

  • Butcher block is a fairly affordable kitchen countertop material.
  • It offers a warm look and feel.
  • It is naturally antibacterial.
  • Not very heat or water resistant.
  • Butcher block marks quite easily.
  • Regular maintenance is required to keep it looking its best.
Butcher block generally costs somewhere between $35 to $70 per square foot, installed.

Tips for Choosing Your Kitchen Countertop Material(s)

Be honest about how much maintenance you are really willing to commit to. Some counters require regular oiling or sealing, while others are just wiped and go. The last thing that you want to do is spend all of this money on a new countertop and not take care of it properly – that will end up costing you money in the end.

Consider using two different countertop materials in one kitchen. This is a very on-trend look and a great way to break up space and add character.

 

All credit goes to Alex Chong Building – The Professional Kitchen Countertops Contractors in London Ontario