There are many different types of countertops you can choose from when building your new kitchen. Each countertop has its own pros and cons. With so many different options available and at different price points, it can be difficult to choose an option. We are here to help you decide which countertop is right for you.
Granite Countertops
Granite is a natural stone countertop. These countertops are primarily sold to our local fabricators and are by far, the most popular natural stone countertop that we install. This countertop can significantly improve the aesthetic design and appeal of your kitchen.
Although the countertop is considered expensive and is generally used in high end kitchens, it has become widely popular in the residential kitchen installations. Granite comes in many different colours that it would be impossible not to find a colour that suits your taste.
Granite countertops can be polished leaving a high shine finish. The granite is then sealed with a specialist sealer that makes the countertop stain resistant. The sealer usually lasts between 5 and 10 years. A non abrasive stone cleaner is an excellent idea for everyday cleaning and maintenance.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops can be a great option in most homes. It is a surface similar to that of granite but the benefits include durability, ease of maintenance and cleaning, as well as many different colour combinations similar to granite.
Quartz countertops would generally last about 10 years to the lifespan of your home. If maintained correctly, you could expect the countertop to lifetime. The impressive style and colour combinations available make it a great choice for homeowners that plan on keeping there home for a long time.
The quartz surface is scratch resistant and non-porous, unlike granitite. This means that there is less chance of the countertop harbouring bacteria in it. There are two downsides, it is expensive and also vulnerable to excessive heat. This may not be a good idea if you regularly cook with high levels of heat.
Marble Countertops
Marble is a high-end natural stone that comes in a few different colours and colour patterns. There are variety of different colour choices available, however, there seems to be many more choices when opting for quartz or the popular granite options. Marble countertops also boast great looks and is an amazing surface for cooking and baking because it is a relatively cold surface and can stay cool. Whilst not the best choice when you need a countertop surface that is resistant to high levels of heat, it can last a long time with proper upkeep and maintenance.
Marble is a soft and porous material and because of this, it may be easy to scratch, stain and get etching marks on it. It is also a very expensive material. Another thing is that it is not very popular in South Africa and certainly, because it is porous, can scratch and stain easily – we don’t recommend this countertop.
Solid Surface Countertops
Solid surface countertops are made from acrylics or polyester-based plastics. These countertops are heated until melted and then poured into a mold. These countertops offers a good low maintenance option. Usually this countertop comes in brighter colour choices – think different shades of white.
The countertop is scratch resistant and if it is completely damaged it can still be repaired. Damages like scratches and burns can easily be fixed by being sanded out. Larger holes can be “spot repaired” and left with an undetectable repair. This makes it a great option for long countertops and islands as they can be fused together. You can also mold the counters into sinks much like soapstone counters.
Engineered Stone Countertops
Engineered stone is another type of solid surface material that is worth considering when you decide to renovate your kitchen.Engineered stone countertops are a composite material. The composition of materials is unique. It comprises of 90% quartz, 10% acrylic epoxy along with other quartz composites such as Silestone, Corian quartz and formica solid-surfacing (a durable, hard plastic). The main difference between engineered stone and natural stone is that engineered stone is harder and there is more depth and clarity in the stone unlike natural stone alternatives.
Concrete countertops
Concrete countertops closely resemble natural stone and continue to be a popular choice for people who want a truly custom countertop. The unique countertop gives off an amazing industrial/ urban culture vibe in a kitchen. This is certainly something to consider if your design tastes don’t conform to the norms.
Today’s concrete fabricators create the precast counters – which are handcrafted in a workshop – are made, cured and finished to your liking. The fabricators also often use wire mesh, metal rehab (used in house foundations), fibreglass or stainless steel to strengthen the counter. The end product is a fully cured countertop delivered to your door. Due to the unique manufacturing process, the slabs can come in different colours because you are able to add pigments to the concrete mix. The slabs are honed and sealed to prevent staining or cracking. This will always be a concern for concrete counters.
It certainly should be the choice of homeowner that likes to do things “a little different”.
Wooden Countertops
Wooden countertops are typically a great surface to work on. These countertops offer a great look and feel to the kitchen. University studies have even concluded that bacteria dies within 3 minutes on a wooden counter. This is why wooden cutting boards are sold and hold less bacteria than the plastic ones. There are many different woods available but the popular ones are Maple wood, Walnut, Cherry and birch wood. These counters are fabricated into the correct design and style you seek.
Well there is a rundown on the different types of countertops that can be installed in your kitchen. Understanding your needs and aesthetic goals can help you narrow down your choice. It is important to remember that the overall cost and lifespan plan a role in kitchen countertop choice. If you need a new kitchen or feel like giving your kitchen a renovation, please contact us to discuss your options.
