The countertop in a kitchen is the most obvious fixture in the room. Any change in the countertop can instantly transform the look of the kitchen. The same goes for countertops in bathrooms. Despite the current economic crisis, the demand for new countertops seems certain to go on for many years to come.
Countertops form an integral part of your kitchen and can not only increase the value of your home, but also provide you with much needed functionality. Choosing a new countertop can be made easier by learning about the many varieties available in the market.
Natural Stone Countertops
For those who wish to add a touch of elegance and glass to their kitchens and bathrooms, employing natural stone for the countertop is the way to go. Using stone also increases the resale value of the house and can suit any style and amount of accessories added to the room. Materials could include granite, soapstone, slate, onyx, marble and travertine. The homeowner has a choice between nonporous materials such as soapstone to trendy and luxurious materials such as onyx. Onyx is also translucent in appearance and can be backlit for a stronger impact.
Wooden Countertops
Wood has been a standard fixture in homes for centuries. From doors to staircases, this material is now one of the top trends in kitchen and bathroom counter tops. Its warm and cozy effect on the room can instantly change the appearance of the place. Some of the most popular materials in wood used today are maple, cherry, walnut and oak. Every plank has its own unique grain and has better texture than tiles. Any scratches made on it can easily be repaired which make it the ideal material for kitchen countertops for cutting purposes.
Solid Surfaces
Today's world introduces a range of new manmade materials for home remodeling. Solid surfaces are just the thing for mimicking natural materials such as quartz, natural stone or concrete. The difference lies in its making: mineral fillers combined with resin. These surfaces are very durable and small scratches can be re-buffed or larger ones filled. Although it seems like an easy material to use, its maintenance is not that simple. Hot pans can discolor the surface so mats and trivets should always be used.
Concrete Countertops
Traditional in use, this material has left behind the basic construction and paving material stereotype and proved to be a very good material for countertops in both kitchens and bathrooms. This material makes an amazing backdrop for any sort of style and décor used in the room. One of the biggest advantages of using concrete is that things such as marbles, pieces of glass, stones, seashells and many more can be embedded in it while it is still wet.
Glass Countertops
For those minimalist, ubër sophisticated homes of the new millennia, glass is a very popular item used for everything from décor pieces to wall fixtures. It can create an illusion of space in the area when used as the countertop in both kitchens and bathrooms. The maintenance is not that hard either and stains can be removed easily. Being non-porous makes it a very hygienic material to use.
Article By Nida Rasheed
