How To Choose the Best Countertops for Kitchen Remodeling

The Kitchen Master

Planning to remodel your kitchen in the near future? One of the most important decisions you’ll make during the process is which type of countertops you’ll have installed. There are a broad variety of kitchen countertop materials, and each one offers its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

The Kitchen Master can help break down the pros and cons of each countertop material to help you choose the best countertops for your kitchen remodeling project. Let’s dive in!

Benefits of Remodeling or Replacing Kitchen Countertops

Before we get into each material type, it’s important to understand how remodeling or replacing your kitchen countertops can benefit you and your family. The following are just some of the benefits you’ll bring to your kitchen simply by replacing its countertops:

• Increased Property Value: Replacing your kitchen counters is a great way to increase your home’s value, which is especially important if you plan to sell within the next 5 – 10 years.
• Improved Functionality: As countertops experience general wear-and-tear, it becomes harder to function while preparing meals. By replacing your countertops, you’ll have improved functionality in your kitchen in no time.
• Easy Maintenance: Old, outdated countertops can have lots of damage that can make it easier for bacteria to grow, requiring harder scrubbing and cleaning. New countertops make maintenance easier thanks to their improved durability.

But which countertops offer the most value, functionality, and ease of maintenance? In order to answer that question, we’ll need to learn more about each countertop material’s pros and cons.

Types of Countertop Materials

At The Kitchen Master, our team offers three main types of countertop materials: granite, quartz, and marble. Each of these materials is superior in their own right; however, there are distinct differences that may cause you to choose one material over another.

Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are among the most popular stone countertops for kitchen remodeling projects due to their timeless beauty and versatility. These countertops come in a broad range of available shades, giving customers ultimate customization when it comes to their renovation project. Additionally, granite is extremely durable, boasting both scratch- and heat-resistance for a more enjoyable overall culinary experience. When properly sealed, granite is also quite resistant to stains and won’t absorb liquids.

One drawback to granite countertops is that if the sealant wears off, it can absorb liquids and stain. Granite is a porous material, so any liquids that absorb into the rock will cause a permanent stain. While some treated granite countertops can last 10 years without being sealed, many require resealing on an annual basis. Additionally, despite granite’s impressive strength, these countertops can crack or chip if heavy objects are dropped onto the countertop without care. While uncommon, this can lead to expensive repairs.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are another high-quality option that many homeowners love. Available in a wide variety of colors and designs, quartz is extremely versatile. One of the most unique things about quartz countertops is the difference in the design process: Unlike other stone countertops, the sample tiles for quartz are true representations of the final product, so you’ll always know exactly what you’re getting for your kitchen remodel. Quartz is also extremely low maintenance due to its nonporous construction. Contrary to granite’s porousness, quartz countertops discourage staining and are nearly twice as scratch-resistant as granite. Compared to granite, quartz is also a more affordable option.

Despite the stronger stain- and scratch-resistance, quartz countertops do not fare well when exposed to lots of sunlight. This is because quartz countertops are highly susceptible to heat and can fade in the sun’s rays. Additionally, there are some size limitations with quartz countertops since most standard slabs clock in at around 65.5 inches wide by 132 inches long. Anything bigger than this will require a seam.

Marble Countertops

Yet another option for your kitchen remodeling project is marble. These countertops are highly sought-after for their exquisite beauty and available “fancy” details, including ogee edges. Because marble is a softer material than other stone countertops, it’s easier to cut into custom shapes and sizes for a more personalized design. Despite this softness, marble is still capable of withstanding the test of time and provides a heat-resistant workspace for your kitchen.

Like granite, marble is a porous stone. That means staining is a big problem, especially for foods and beverages that have high acidity. Sealants can help mitigate staining and scratching on marble countertops; however, this will require annual resealing. Unless you install marble tile countertops, repairing this material is very difficult to accomplish and should be left in the hands of a true Kitchen Master.

Choose The Kitchen Master for Your Countertop Remodeling Needs

Whether you’re seeking granite, marble, or quartz countertops for your home, The Kitchen Master team has you covered.

Allow us to help you find the best replacement countertops for your renovation project by scheduling a kitchen remodeling consultation with our team today!