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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.

Which Countertops Should I Choose?

Marble Countertops

It has a lot of similarity to the granite countertops. Marble is a material used that gives you a lot of elegance. It very well resists the scratches. You have to keep in mind that it does not withstand accidental hits that you may have. It also has the disadvantage in the absorption of the liquids.

Among the problems you may encounter is the delicacy of the material. You may have problems with the stains and acids you get to use. With the passage of time, the marble in the kitchen loses its brightness. The maintenance of this material is a major expense. The sale price is competitive with granite countertops.

Wood Countertops

This type of countertop gives a touch of elegance and warmth to highlight your place. The beauty that provides in your home is one the points of your demand. The varied colors you can find is another strong point in the purchase decision. Despite being very attractive to purchase, it has many disadvantaged points that make it unattractive.

The cost of maintenance becomes a little higher than that of the marble countertop. The porosity is presented of equal or greater proportion than the types of countertop. Oil stains and scratches are within against points. Water can become an enemy of your countertop. The maintenance is increased due to the periodic application of varnish or sanding to erase the damages that you cause.

Quartz Countertops

One good choice you can make to refurbish your place is to opt for a quartz countertop. Among the advantages with which they emphasize that you can make use with a thickness from centimeters and a half. You can adjust the price of the counter based on your budget with a variety of finishes.

They are resistant to scratches and heat. The blows are not a problem for this material since its resistance is just as you expected it. You do not have high maintenance costs since it does not require much to have it in optimal conditions. The facility to clean it will leave you enchanted. You cannot apply any chemical or you can ruin it.

The decision of choosing the countertops depends largely on the tastes and budget. If we are looking for any design and we are willing to be careful, marble is usually one of the preferred options. On the other hand laminated countertops are the favorites for those who are looking for an economic option, either because they will not give an intensive use or because it is a rental housing.

Wood is the favorite choice of people looking for the naturalness and have a special relationship with this material. The great advantage of quartz countertops is that they offer both design and quality and resistance, making it an option for all those who do not look for a low cost option.