Importance and Types of Materials for Countertops

The countertop is a very important element in the decoration and functionality of the kitchen. Apart from being one of the most useful elements of the distribution of our kitchen, the countertops optimize the work and serve as a point of support.

There is no doubt that the kitchen countertop is one of the parts that undergoes greater wear with the passage of time, but its use and functionality make it an essential element when it comes to cooking in the kitchen.

Although it is not an easy task to opt for one material or another, the main characteristics they should have include durability, strength, ease of cleaning, price and aesthetics. Also, keep in mind that each home has its own design and style, so you should choose a countertop that fits your preferences.

Types of Materials for Countertop

Granite

It is one of the most recommended material for its durability and resistance to heat and shock. It is easy to maintain and clean and its finish can be polished.

Quartz

It is composed of a mixture of natural quartz with polyester resin. It is characterized by its impermeability, although it is necessary to avoid the high temperatures.

Stainless Steel

It is a more common material in professional kitchens. Its impermeability to moisture, high resistance to temperatures and shocks characterize it. Durability is its strong point. However, cleaning and maintenance of the material is not as simple as it is sensitive to scratches.

Porcelain

It is an artificial material produced by the process of dissolution and crystallization of ceramics and silicon particles, which makes it more durable and strong. It is resistant to heat and corrosive products.

Wood

Visually it is more attractive and aesthetic, however, it can present problems of humidity. Their fragility to the blows and scratches are another weak point. In addition, its maintenance must be constant and adequate. It is suitable for a rustic style.

It is advisable to avoid chafing and tearing with other elements, in addition to constant maintenance. Ideally, it will continue to be useful and functional over time.

If you have them installed already and you feel they look a little rough, the countertop refinishing is the option you should go for instead of getting the replaced which will cost you very expensive.

Discover Different Materials and Their Features for Kitchen Countertops

No part of your kitchen is subjected every day to a use as intense as the countertop. That is why, on the one hand, it must be solid, suitable for daily use and easy to clean. However, on the other hand, the countertop is also one of the attributes of a kitchen that first catches the eye, so it has to be beautiful and beautify your kitchen.

Natural Stone Countertops

Natural stone is an elegant and genuine material and it is presented as a timeless element frequently used in kitchen planning.

Granite

Granite countertops are the most popular ones. Since they are water repellent, extremely hygienic and sturdy, you can enjoy them for a long time. The structure and color variations that originate naturally have a timeless beauty and make each countertop a unique piece. They can be combined very easily with other materials. They are offered and sold in many price classes depending on the origin and quality of the raw material.

Marble

Something less common are the marble countertops. This elegant material is less resistant to water, and therefore should not be installed in areas where it is in direct contact with water, as it could form unsightly stains.

Slate Countertops

This natural stone is rarely used on kitchen countertops. It is a versatile material, exclusive and preferred by experts. The impregnated natural slate is extremely impermeable and immune to most cleaning products. Its structure and its coloration in dark gray tones give a very elegant touch.

Artificial Stone and Mineral Composite Mineral Countertops

Whoever does not want to give up the aesthetic advantages of the natural stone and at the same time also wants a material for countertops that is resistant to pressure, heat, cuts and stains should opt for an artificial stone or composite mineral.

These are materials that are made by mixing ground natural stone and mixed with a binder, such as polyester resin, and its subsequent high pressure compression. Depending on the tastes of the consumer, dyes and shards of glass or mirror can also be added. Of course, a significant advantage over natural stone is that the structure, grain and color of the artificial stone countertops can be determined completely free when making the blends. Of course, a mineral compound countertop is not always much cheaper than a natural raw material.