If you’ve ever set foot into a kitchen, you’ve probably noticed that your eyes are drawn to the Van Countertops. This is not a coincidence, as these countertops are one of the most important parts of any kitchen. From the ingredients you use for cooking to the items you store on them, a kitchen countertop is the piece of the room that will create the most impact on your home’s appearance for years to come. The key to choosing the right countertop for your home is to understand that there are two basic types: natural stone and solid surface countertops.
Natural stone countertops are the most popular, because they are available in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and styles. They are also among the most expensive, but come with the benefit of an incredible lifespan, and little maintenance required. Natural stone is heat resistant and stain resistant, making it an excellent choice for kitchens. However, because of their price tag, they are usually found in high end homes, or custom built homes where stain resistance is a major concern. Granite countertops are one of the cheapest but also the easiest to maintain, which makes them a popular choice in homes where stain control is not a big issue.
Solid surface countertops are relatively inexpensive and easy to care for, making them a great option for those on a budget. These countertops have the same durability and heat resistance as granite countertops, but cost significantly less due to their lack of custom look and low-cost manufacturing. However, like granite, solid surface countertops can be susceptible to heat damage from cooking and cleaning, so they are not ideal for kitchens in which heat is a big problem. Concrete countertops are the cheapest of the three, but also require the least maintenance.
Choosing the right kitchen countertops may be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. With so many different kitchen surface options, there is no reason to believe you have to settle for less than your heart desires. A popular kitchen surface option is the laminate, or seamless, countertop. This type of counter top has a smooth, consistent surface that can be sealed to protect it and prevent staining. Some of the more popular seamless kitchen countertops include butcher block, marble and concrete countertops.
When considering the material for your kitchen countertop, another option to consider is wood. Although wood grain patterns can sometimes be bland and distracting, wood grain patterns can actually add a unique and organic element to your kitchen. There are two main types of wood used to make kitchen countertops: solid wood and engineered wood. Engineered wood resists stains and discoloration better than solid wood, and it also creates a smooth and glossy surface. Popular engineered wood options include cherry, mahogany, oak, walnut and other hardwoods.
While solid wood countertops are still the most popular, many homeowners are switching to using either engineered or laminate wood countertops to enhance their kitchen design. These countertops can provide some of the same benefits as solid wood, but they come in a wide variety of styles and colors. In addition, they can be sealed to keep off staining and preserve their look for years to come. Some popular engineered wood countertops include maple, bamboo and stone. No matter which type of wood countertop you decide on, you’re sure to find something that will complement your kitchen design and add value to your home.