Kitchen Countertops 101

Have you been thinking about updating your kitchen countertops. Before spending money to replace your countertops, check out the pros and cons of some of the most popular countertop materials below. Let this list help you choose the right countertop for you and your family. 

Granite - Definitely the top choice for most homeowners, traditional granite offers a high-end look that adds to your kitchen's value while providing a durable prep surface. Natural granite does require a bit of care and should follow a regular sealing routine which is typically once a year. Granite countertops are resistance to scratches and damage from heat and are easy to clean when sealed properly. Becuase of its heaviness, you will need to make sure your cabinet boxes are sturdy enough to support the weight. 

Marble - Marble is considered the 'Cadillac' of countertops but are not usually recommended for kitchens as they are more porous that other types of stone. If you are set on having marble countertops then make sure you have them professionally sealed to help prevent stains, marks, and scratches. Marble is heat resistant so it can withstand some normal countertop abuse. Also, the cost will be higher than that of quartz or granite. 

Quartz -Quartz countertops offer the strength of granite and have the added benefit of being more flexible which allows for easier installation. Also, because quartz is an engineered stone, it does not require sealant, ever. One downside to quartz is that it is not as resistant to heat as granite. If you are wanting to use quartz then make sure you always use a pot holder or something under a hot pan or plate to protect your counters. Also, like granite, this is a heavy product so make sure your cabinet boxes are sturdy enough to support the weight.

Recycled Glass - Glass counters aren't very common but they are gaining in popularity for those homeowners looking for unique options. The eco-friendly attributes and unique style options of the chip-based products offer a customizable  and one of a kind countertop. Cement based recycled glass countertops require a sealer that must be applied periodically to protect them from acidic substances. Resin based countertops provide a non-porous surface and don't require sealing to protect them. In general, recycled glass countertops can be expensive, costing more than some stone countertops. If you really like the look, it's worth pricing out but don't be too surprised of the cost exceeds some other popular surfacing materials.