Kitchen counter tops are one of the most used items in your kitchen. Whether you are preparing the evening meal, storing appliances, or just enjoying that first cup of coffee in the morning, kitchen countertops serve many uses. Aside from multi-uses, kitchen countertops are an important aesthetic element of the kitchen. There are a plethora of styles, types, edges, and materials for countertops. Selecting the one that is right for you can prove to be a challenge. An excellent starting point is to research online as well visit home improvement stores to determine what style, cost, and material fit your budget.
Kitchen counter tops are available in a wide selection of materials and finishes. One of the most popular materials is Formica counter tops. These are easy to clean and maintain, not to mention easy to install and even easier on the wallet. With a wide selection of color, Formica counter tops are available to match nearly all color schemes that a kitchen may have.
Granite counter tops are another popular type of kitchen counter top. Be prepared that granite counter tops cost significantly more than the Formica counter tops. Granite counter tops are more durable and even scratch resistant than Formica. Slabs of granite are used for the counter top. They are polished and generally available in a variety of edges, such as bull nose, blunt cut, or even knife edge. As you can see, granite countertops can offer more variety in the form of looks than compared to a Formica counter top.
A third option for a counter top is the tiled counter top. Similar to tiled floor, it is laid as individual tile and arranged in a number of patterns and color schemes. Installation of this type is more time consuming and difficult than the previously mentioned counter tops. Aside from installation, tiled counter tops can easily show dirt within the grout. It is important to seal the grout and tile after installation to help prevent the visibility of dirt and to allow for easier cleaning.
New kitchen counter tops are a great way to make a statement in your kitchen. With a wide range of pricing, materials, finishes, patterns, and more, rest assured you will be able to find a new counter top that is not only functional, but also practical. Be sure to shop around and compare prices when you are looking to make a purchase for a new kitchen counter top. In the end you will not only save money on your purchase, but you will have a new kitchen counter top to complete your kitchen.
Kitchen Counter Tops Laminate
Granite is the latest trend in counter tops. Once available only to the wealthy due to the expense, the cost of granite has decreased in the past several years and has become more affordable to the middle class and is finding its way into more and more homes. This all natural stone is polished to a reflective sheen and gives a sophisticated feel to any kitchen.
Granite is sometimes difficult to work with. It is a natural stone, and it is therefore, not identical in color or pattern to any other piece of granite. Only an expert can successfully match different pieces to cover large areas or when aligning two pieces. It must be sealed on a regular basis to prevent it from being stained by foods or liquids. Granite also does not withstand heat and hot pots should never be placed on it. This material must be installed only by a professional.
Ceramic tiles have been used for centuries. This is perhaps the one counter top material that can be installed by the owner. They come in many different sizes, styles, and colors. Ceramic tiles can be mixed or matched to create interesting patterns and even to create a picture. Ceramic is heat resistant and is an excellent choice for use in a kitchen. There are only a couple of deterrents to using ceramic. The grout is easily stained and will mold in areas that has a lot of moisture. Impacts and slightly uneven surfaces will cause the tiles to crack. Over all ceramic tiles are easy to maintain or replace if needed.
Formica is another type of counter top material that has withstood the test of time. It is available a huge variety of colors and patterns. It can be purchased in large sheets and cut to fit. This material is relatively inexpensive and can be installed by the average person, but one should be very careful when cutting to prevent mistakes. Formica does not withstand heat and will have a melted appearance when anything hot is placed on it. If water seeps under it, it will swell the wood beneath it will buckle up and clack the Formica.
Stainless steel can be used for a kitchen by someone who wants an industrial look. It is expensive and must be professionally installed. This is perhaps the easiest material to care for. It can be wiped clean and disinfected. Stainless steel does not absorb liquids and is stain, germ, and heat resistant.
Concrete has recently come on the scene as an alternative to granite. It can be colored to suit the consumer and is very durable. It requires very little maintenance and withstands heat. Concrete is sealed and is resistant to germs. It will stain and any type of colored food or liquids should be cleaned immediately.
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