Counter tops experience the most wear and use in a kitchen, next to flooring.
So selecting a countertop should be a primary consideration when designing or updating a kitchen.
Your selection should be based on:
1. looks
2. practicality
3. budget
Not necessary in that order...
First, review your options, some of the most popular and used today are:
GRANITE
It is an extremely durable material, and it is an ideal surface for cooking and food prep.
It is a natural stone, so no two slabs or granite types are exactly alike. However, granite is expensive,
particularly if it is curved or if intricate edge details are desired. Also, granite must be sealed at
least once a year or depending on usage.
BUTCHER BLOCK
Butcher block is a natural product, it is resistant and reasonably priced. It is ideal for chopping fruit,
vegetables and meat. Continual use will create texture and variations of color, which gives it its "old world look".
However, prolonged exposure to water can damage the wood, which makes it an impractical choice to use around the sink.
It must be periodically sanded and conditioned to prevent wood from drying.
SOLID SURFACE
Solid Surface is a synthetic material, mostly acrylic, available in a multitude of colors and textures. It is waterproof,
scratch resistant, and low maintenance. However, it can be expensive and comparable to granite. Also, because it is a
synthetic material, it may burn if exposed to intense heat. It can be repaired and renuwed if necesary.
LAMINATE
Laminate is affordable and easy to maintain. There are a variety of colors and textures to select from,
including some that mimic the look of natural stone. This type of surface can warp if water penetrates the surface.
It is not scratch resistant, heat resistant, and nearly impossible to repair if damaged.
STAINLESS STEEL
Stainless steel is a commercial grade surface that is durable, heat resistant and virtually indestructible.
It is an excellent choice for professional and serious cooks or chefs. It is non-corrosive and sanitary.
It does scratch easily, but it can create a desirable patina through the years.
CONCRETE
Concrete offers infinite design possibilities of color, texture and appearance. It can be imbedded with materials
such as leaves or glass to create a unique finish. Installing concrete is a hard task, because the material
is poured on-site. It is also very expensive, even more so than stone. Concrete can also stain or crack, although
some people prefer these imperfections.
Besides this, there is marble, tile countertops, quartz and even glass !! Options are limitless...
Now that you know a little more about the basic options...
Based on your needs, narrow down your selection to two or three materials. Request samples and quotes from local
distributors and fabricators. Bring them home and review.
Make a checklist of features and benefits. Be realistic.
Will you seal your granite countertop every year?
Will a crack on your concrete countertop bother you?
Do you use a cutting board every time ?
Once you make your decision, make sure you shop around and compare quotes. But for that, you need measurements,
here is an overview on how to measure your surface:
1. Sketch the basic layout of your kitchen on paper. Add in the sink, refrigerator and the stove.
2. Measure the width of the counters by starting at one end of the existing counter. Run the tape measure
along the wall to the opposite edge of the counter. Measure each section of counter. Mark the measurements
on your paper.
3. Measure the counter from the wall to the front edge to determine the depth. Take the measurement
in multiple locations to verify the depth in each section. Mark the measurements on your paper.
4. Measure each section again to double check the measurements on your sketch.
Once you are satisfied that the measurements are correct, write the exact measurements on your sketch.
This will be very helpful when visiting a design center or local store.
But the most important thing...Enjoy yourself and the process !!
Di'Luna's Design Tip:
Maintenance
It's important to know how to keep your countertops clean based on what they're made of.
For instance, laminate countertops are best cleaned with a lemon-based cleaner or lemon juice,
which helps to lift the stains. Ceramic counters wipe clean with a solution of bleach and water,
but this is too harsh for a granite counter top; an antibacterial clean is best for granite.
