Make sure you have a detailed plan for your kitchen renovation before you begin shopping in countertops. Consider how long you are planning to live in the home, as well as the cabinetry and appliances you plan to use. You should also know what types of upgrades are common in your area for similar homes.
The kitchen is indeed the hub of your hectic home where you cook, entertain, and relax — and this has to be reflected in your countertops. These hard-working surfaces have to fit your space, complement your style, and satisfy your needs. The countertop choices available today are more varied and exciting than ever before.
Here's how to start the selection process:
Establish a budget
Your budget should match the value of the property. You will hopefully make your home suited for your taste and live there forever. But for people who are moving after a few years, countertops don't travel well.
Choose the countertops which fit the house's price range. Remember that the cost of sink cutouts and certain finishes are additional. A single huge slab for an island will also increase costs.
Materials
A variety of countertop materials is available. These are among the most common.
Granite
Granite is a form of natural stone. The combination of multiple different minerals form that speckled look and give it different colors. It's very hard and very long-lasting. It can resist surface scratches or burns.
Marble
Made of mostly calcite, marble is a softer stone. It's high maintenance and can easily stain and etch. The characteristic veining of marble is unique and beautiful. It is also good for bakers and pastry chefs due to its interaction with dough.
Soapstone
Soapstone is another kind of natural stone material. Dark green, gray or black, it offers instant moodiness with white veining. An occasional application of mineral oil might make it look richer. The soapstone surface is non-porous and stands up to heat well. As a softer stone, it can get scratched but not at the detriment of its appearance.
Engineered Stone
Engineered stone is a man-made material, also called quartz. It is meant to imitate natural stone. This blends minerals with color and resin, including the quartz. This produces a nearly indestructible surface.
Laminate
The most budget-conscious countertop is laminate, with a particle board as its base. This is also the most flexible to choose from, with endless patterns. From stone-looking to cheerful kitsch you can pick something. But these counters don’t do well with heat and sharp instruments getting damaged quite easily.
Solid Surface
If you're looking for a smooth countertop, the solid surface is the way to go. Made from nonporous acrylic, solid surface countertops are easy to clean and resist stains and bacteria. The combination of acrylic, polyester, and pigment comes in slabs. It may not be as cold to touch as stone. It is less heat resistant than other surfaces, so watch out for hot pans. Buffing prevents scratches and stains.
Finishing Touches
It's time to figure out the finishing touches once you've compared the kitchen countertops and settled on a surface. Most countertops come in a variety of edges allowing you to customize your appearance. Square and the eased are all standard ones. In addition, there is a beveled edge, miter, bullnose, ogee, French cove, and others.
Need help in choosing the best countertop for your kitchen? Then consult the Kitchen Renovation Experts in Connecticut.