Granite
Pros: Granite is one of the top choices in countertop materials. It is unique in that the colors and patterns are found in nature, rather than being designed by man. You can choose from many colors and either a polished or matte finish. It stands up well to splashes, knife nicks, hear and other wear and tear.
Cons: Granite, like most other stone, has to be sealed regularly to avoid staining. Also, it is very heavy so you will need cabinet boxes that can hold all that weight.
Marble
Pro: Marble provides sheer elegance and nothing is more glamorous for your countertops at the Lake of the Ozarks. Since it remains perennially cool, it stands up to heat well. Therefore, it's a traditional choice for pastry and baking stations. For example, your dough won't get too soft!
Cons: Marble is extremely susceptible to stains, even with sealing. For that reason, it is often limited to one or two areas rather than used throughout the entire kitchen. It can also scratch and chip easily.
Quartz
Pros: Quartz is a good compromise between the beauty of natural stone and the easy care of solid surfacing. Maintenance of quartz is minimal and its available in a far greater range of colors than natural stone.
Cons: Quartz doesn't have the natural variegation of granite, so it may be evident that it is engineered. It is relatively pricey, although its durability can make it a worthwhile investment.
Laminate
Pros: Laminate is one of the most affordable countertop materials out there. It's low in maintenance and easy to clean, while it's light weight doesn't need the support of a thick (more expensive) cabinet base.
Cons: Laminate is prone to scratching, burns and even staining sometimes. Layers can also peel with wear and moisture exposure. You can't use it with under-mount sinks due to the raw particle board core and it's difficult to repair if it gets damaged.
Soapstone
Pros: Soapstone offers a subtle nuanced beauty, yet feels humbler than natural stone. It has a softness and depth that fits well with older and cottage-style homes. Although it starts out light to medium gray, it darkens with time (which could also be a con).
Cons: To keep soapstone in tip-top shape, it needs polishing with oil regularly. It cracks easily over time and can't handle knife scratches and nicks as well as other materials can. The natural roughness of its surface can even scuff glassware and china.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
Pros: Not only is it good for floors and back splashes, but you can also use tile for countertops! Tile provides nearly limitless options for color and designs, while being inexpensive. It holds it's own against heat and sharp blades and resists stains. It's fairly easy to replace one or two tiles if they chip, rather than having to replace the entire countertop.
Cons: Tile creates an uneven surface making it difficult to balance a cutting board or roll out some dough. Unsealed grout is prone to staining and standing moisture can damage it and contribute to bacteria growth.
Concrete
Pros: Concrete isn't just for floors, its versatility is perfect for a countertop material. It can be cast into any shape and custom tinted to your desired shade. You can easily add inlays such as glass fragments, rocks or shells. Although it isn't as heat resistant as other materials, it stands up well to heavy use. A slightly edgier material, concrete provides industrial chic.
Cons: Because it is porous, concrete has to be sealed frequently to avoid staining. With time and settling, small crack will develop. Also, concrete is extremely heavy and will need very strong support underneath. The custom creation increases the price just like with stainless steel.
Solid Surfaces
Pros: More commonly known as Corian, which is actually a brand name, solid surfacing is nonporous therefore it's virtually maintenance free. You don't have to reseal it all the time and no special cleaning is required. Scratches and burns are easy to sand out. Since it's not natural, you can choose from many vibrant colors such as red or turquoise. Seamless installation means there are no cracks to trap dirt and debris.
Cons: Solid surfacing can have an artificial look and feel, but can still approach the price of natural stone. Also, it doesn't stand up to hot pans or sharp knives as well as some of the other materials available.
Stainless Steel
Pros: Stainless steel is nearly indestructable, while resisting heat and bacteria. It also provides a very distinctive look that feels appropriate in contemporary and industrial style kitchens.
Cons: Fingerprints must be wiped of frequently and stainless steel can dent easily. It can also be loud as pots, pans and other dishware clang against the surface. Chemicals can affect its color and cause unwanted etching. It is also extremely expensive due to the custom fabrication.
Butcher Block
Pros: Butcher block has a classic appeal and always looks fresh. It is especially fitting for traditional, country and cottage-style kitchens. They provide a warm, natural apperance and varigated wood tones. Although knives scratch it, many people like the worn look that develops. However, you can easily sand the scratches down.
Cons: Since wood swells and contracts with moisture exposure, it harbors bacteria and needs frequent disinfecting. You must oil it to fill in scratches and protect the surface.
Once you have decided on the type of countertops you want, call All-Star Home Renovations to come install them for you. We specialize in kitchen remodels from small home improvement projects to complete home renovations at the Lake of the Ozarks. Whatever your kitchen needs, we've got you covered. Give us a call today at 573-286-2569 for a free estimate on your kitchen remodel!
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All-Star Home Renovations serves the entire Lake of the Ozarks area. We can handle everything from your most complex home improvement and remodeling projects to the simplest.
All-Star Renovations has 25 years experience and is fully insured!
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Serving the Entire Lake of the Ozarks Area
Adam : 573-286-2569
adam@all-star-renovations.com
Jay: 573-480-4757
jay@all-star-renovations.com
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