Choosing Countertop Materials for your Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations

Deciding on a kitchen or bathroom countertop can be a pretty hard experience, but once you’ve read this neat breakdown, you’ll be doing it like a pro.

Principle No1: Never choose based on looks alone. Take into consideration the surface material’s durability, maintenance needs and cost, to make sure your decision is balanced.

Principle No2: Fit the choice to your lifestyle. If you have a large family and a small army of young humans attacks your countertop with peanut butter & jelly sandwiches on a regular basis, white granite may not be the best choice. Choose the countertop based on the type of use your kitchen is going to see. If you wanted a certain look but we just spoiled things for you, don’t worry – there is likely another material that will serve as needed and look the part.

Natural Stone Countertops

Granite has been considered the best choice in the category. It comes in a multitude of colors, from black and green to coral and beige. It has a natural, unique look and comes in two finishes – polished and matte. There are other types of natural stone to choose from, such as limestone and marble. Although they look amazing, they are softer and therefore there is a greater risk of becoming stained and damaged. Sealing natural stone is required every now and again to keep it safe.

Engineered Stone Countertops

This type of countertop lacks the natural look of the previous category, but has all the other characteristics of natural stone, and then some. Quartz composite has gained popularity over the last year due to the depth and radiance not found in other material. The variety of colors, for one, is much greater. They are also much more durable and non-demanding when in terms of maintenance. The price is roughly the same between engineered and natural stone, but it will likely last longer, so there are savings down the road.

Solid Surface Countertops

Those have lots of appeal, and come in many colors. They are one-piece, solid surfaces and are extremely stain resistant. They can be damaged by hot pans, but are otherwise very durable.

Concrete Countertops

Customizable down to their shades and pigments, this choice is rising in popularity, and fast. It comes in smooth, sanded, and pressed finishes. It can be damaged by extreme temperatures and can be rather easily discolored, so buy this only if you know you will treat it with care or seal it every few months.

Wood Countertops

If you like the feel of wood and the way the butcher’s block surface warms up a kitchen, this one’s for you. Easily stained and scratched but repair is possible by sanding and refinishing. Oil it frequently to protect it from water, and it will keep you happy for a long time.

Last but not least, the Laminate Countertop is still very popular due to its affordability and variety of designs. Newer types of laminate have scratch resistant surfaces and have developed some heat resistance too. Add the price and ease of installing, and it definitely proves to be a good choice for a renovation on the budget.

For more info and advice on your Toronto kitchen renovation project, contact us today and we will help build your dream kitchen to life.