If cooking is the main event in your kitchen, then your countertops are the backdrop to the festivities. Choosing a countertop surface that suits your lifestyle is one of the first steps in creating a functional kitchen. With so many options out there, it’s hard to know the differences. Read below to learn about common countertop surfaces.
Granite
Known for its beauty and durability, granite is mined from pure stone, sawed into slabs and polished for installation. Granite shows slight variations in color and veining, which adds to the one-of-a-kind beauty of this stone. Overall granite is easy to take care of, but it is best to avoid harsh cleaning products. A little soap and water will do the trick! And, because some granites are more porous than others, they may require periodic sealing to prevent future staining.
Quartz
Quartz is similar in appearance and performance when compared to granite, yet it is quite different in its makeup. Quartz countertops are manufactured from crushed quartz mixed with pigments (for color) and a resin binder which helps with stain resistance. Because quartz is man-made, the availably of colors is greater and the coloring is more consistent throughout the surface. Like all countertops, acidic or abrasive cleaners should be avoided when cleaning. Mild soap and water are recommended.
Quartzite
Though similar in name to quartz, quartzite is a natural stone. Quartzite begins as sandstone, then under a natural process of heat and pressure, the sandstone is fused with sparkly quartz crystals to form quartzite. Colors range from bold dark greys and browns to light whites and beiges. Quartzite is stain, heat and scratch resistant, making it a popular choice for some families. A gentle cleanser, water and a soft cloth will help protect the countertop and keep it clean.
Butcher Block/Wood
Commonly used in farmhouse style homes, butcher block is a timeless countertop option. Consisting of individual strips of wood fused together into a sleek slab, butcher block countertops are available in a wide range of colors and finishes from subtle, grained maple to deep, rich walnut. However, because it is wood, butcher block is sensitive to moisture and will need to be sealed often to prevent damage. In retrospect, butcher block countertops are easy to clean and things like knife scratches and burn marks can be sanded out to keep the countertop looking new for many years.
Modern Laminates
Modern laminate countertops can give the look of more expensive materials, such as granite and quartz, at an affordable price. Available in hundreds of colors, technology has given modern laminates a depth of realism. This durable, nonporous material is stain resistant and easy to clean.
Still stuck on which countertop to choose? Schedule an appointment to visit our design center or check out these partner websites: Konkus Marble & Granite and Formica.
About the Author: Tracee Ribar, Designer/Sales Consultant
With over 18 years of real estate and interior design experience, Tracee thrives on helping customers design and build their dream home. Committed to listening to customer needs, Tracee exceeds expectations by helping clients design the best home solutions for their families. She is known for her calm reassurance and expert advice. Having built an American Heritage Home herself, Tracee understands the pros of building a new home far outweigh the cons. She received a BA in PR/Journalism from Northern Illinois University, Real Estate Licenses from Hondros College, and an Associate of Applied Science in Interior Design from Sinclair College. Outside the office, Tracee is well connected and actively involved in the community. For over 10 years she shared her love for art and design as a docent for the Columbus Museum of Art. Today, Tracee serves on the Board of Directors for the Phoenix Rising Printmaking Cooperative, a 501(C) 3 fine arts organization located in downtown Columbus.