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Countertops in a household are something many people don’t change often unless a major renovation is planned. It’s essential to choose something you love as well as a material which can stand the test of time for durability, style, and function. When you’re shopping for a countertop what should you keep in mind? I’m glad you’ve asked. Let’s learn about household countertops.
Countertop materials can range from wood to stone to metal or something man-made. In general, each material will have its unique perks plus some things to keep in mind for best care.
Granite: When choosing granite, you’ll receive a natural stone with distinct veining patterns. Granite is durable though porous and requires sealing for the best results and longevity.
Quartz: This material is popular for its high durability rating and being non-porous. This engineered stone comes in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Marble: If your preferences are towards a classic look, marble will be your to-go. Marble like granite offers some stunning veining patterns. The downside to choosing marble is it can stain easily. Because marble rates as a 3-4 on the Mohs scale for hardness (compared to granite’s rating of 6-7), marble scratches easily.
Stainless Steel and Concrete: When sleek modern is more your style, you’ll be happier with either stainless steel or concrete countertops. Either surface materials will complement the trendy modern industrial look. Steel can withstand heavy use and you’ll find this material in commercial kitchens because of this quality even though steel can show scratches. Concrete can be tinted and customized to numerous colors and finishes.
Wood: While wood requires regular maintenance, it offers a warm and natural aesthetic.
Corian: This man-made material is constructed from acrylic resin and natural minerals. It’s another affordable option found in many homes because it’s non-porous, stain resistant, durable, and scratches and light stains can be buffed out.
When it comes to design elements you may think it stops at color but there is so much more. Depending on the material there may be veining, patterns, or finish options. The color palette can range from muted neutral colors to bright, bold colors.
The veining can range from contrasting to subtle.
The finishes can include polished, leathered, or honed. The edges of the countertop can be beveled, smooth, waterfall, or eased. Each of these elements can be customized to create the kitchen or bath vanity of your dreams.
When it comes to functionality, you may think to yourself, “It’s a countertop. It simply needs to hold things and be a workable surface” and while true, countertops do so much more.
Around the kitchen: Ideal areas near the stovetops should be heat resistant. Using raised trivets and hot pads to rest a pot can give some protection but there will be some levels of heat that transfer to the countertop. Also be mindful of the scratch resistance rating and avoid cutting directly on the surface of the counter. Stains can happen from everyday spills so know the stain resistance rating if your favorite material is porous or non-porous.
In the bathroom: This is another room susceptible to spills and stains as well as scratches.
In the laundry room: Think about any harsh detergents or cleaning solutions that may be too abrasive or strong for a laundry room countertop.
Other areas around the house where it makes sense to have a countertop: Other places could include in the garage as your workshop surface, for gardening and planting prep, or on the patio around your outdoor grill and kitchen areas.
As you narrow down which material will make the best countertop for your home, consider these things:
Your answers will guide you towards the best material to match your preferences and needs. As always, reach out if you have any questions or would like to schedule a call. It’s my pleasure to show you some outstanding homes with countertops you can fall in love with.
Since 2004 Sara Lyn Nguyen continues to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate around the Houston area to those she serves. Sara is a multi-year award winning REALTOR® and relocation specialist where her clients trust her to have up-to-date information on the real estate market. She has been one of Gary Greene’s Multi-Million Dollar Top Producers, and citywide was the #2 Top Producing agent in 2020, #3 in 2021, and #2 in 2022. When it’s time to buy, sell, invest, or relocate speak with a trusted professional knowledgeable in the homes and neighborhoods of Fort Bend/Sugar Land and the surrounding region.
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