Popular Kitchen Countertop
Finding the right counter surface for doesn't need to be a challenge. Here are a few helpful hints about the more popular materials for countertops. Although it may be tempting to select a countertop based upon looks alone, a the durability of the material, the maintenance and, of naturally, the cost are also essential issues to think about when making a choice for a kitchen redo.
Find a Lifestyle Fit
Homeowners should look at how they live before deciding upon a countertop surface, If there are three kids in the family and they make peanut butter & jelly sandwiches upon the counter each day, selecting the white granite might not be the best choice
Choices for Countertops
The really good news here is if that homeowners have their minds set on a particular look, however the material just does not go with their lifestyle, the odds are some other material will. Granite, the number one choice in countertops, comes in a array of shades like blacks, greens, whites, beiges and corals. While no two pieces happen to be precisely alike, granite comes in two finishes. There is a polished finish resulting in a shiny appearance and typically darkens the stone's look, while honing is matte and soft. Costs for granite has many many variables, including finish, color, and the stone originated.
"If you select a granite that's somewhat easy to acquire, it might be very affordable. However, if you select a granite that must be imported from Spain, and it is only shipped once a year, it could get pretty expensive.. Other natural stones, such as marble, soapstone and limestone are not as hard granite and entail delicate use and more care. Also all stone countertops need to be periodically sealed. Man made stone counters come in a broader array of colors than does natural stone counters, are much more durable and a cinch to take care of. They're "practically bulletproof,. However, man made stone will not save any money compared to granite counters: the two materials have roughly the same cost. Solid surface counters have plenty of appeal. They're available in endless colors, are seamless, stain resistant with the ability to buff out scratches. One caveat, though: Hot pots and pans can destroy solid-surface countertops.
Concrete countertops, have the ability to be completely customized using pigments, are gaining in popularity. Concrete comes in a number of different finishes: ground (sanded exposing the sand aggregate, troweled (smooth), ) and pressed (where a tool is employed which reveals marble-like veining). Abrupt or extreme temperature changes may bring about curling or warping, a damp sponge left on the countertop can cause discoloration while acidic spills could etch into the surface. The best way to maintain a concrete counter at its very best, is to seal them as often as four times each year and use a paste wax every two or three months.
Wood counters, such as butcher block, bring warmth to a kitchen instantly. They clean easily while scratches may be sanded out. Water will damage butcher block counters quite effortlessly, though, so wood counters should be frequently oiled to seal their surface. Laminate happens to be the most reasonably priced countertop material and is available in an wide array of designs and colors. Laminate can become scorched if a hot pot or pan comes in contact with the surface and carries a reputation for easily scratching. However, the material has made great strides in becoming scratch-resistant in recent years.
At the edge
Square edges come standard on the majority of countertops, although decorative edges such as bull-nose, radius, bevel, ogee and egg while being somewhat more expensive are just one more way of customizing a kitchen. Edge availability varies based upon countertop materials.
Mix and match Having a hard time deciding upon a single one material? Then go ahead mix and match countertops. Many interior decorators, often use different materials for islands than on the other countertops to make the space appear different. Another option is insetting another material type into a counter for specified tasks. Butcher block is as is typical for chopping as marble is for baking. Before deciding upon countertop material, go look in person to look at the surface, if that entails going to a showroom or looking at samples in-home.
Kitchens: The Smart Approach to Design (Home Decorating) Learn to think as a designer professional to create the kitchen you have always wanted without expensive of mistakes or you are less than elated over the final outcome. Kitchens: The Smart Approach goes over all the thing you should know in starting the procedure from the eary planning stages to understanding how to choose and layout a floor plan, choose cabinets and appliances, shop for fixtures and finishing material, and create a one-of-a kind appearance. Not just an idea book, it's a step-by-step method to the design process.
Resources
National Kitchen & Bath Association
See also
Suggested Reading
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