Designing a kitchen is a tough job. You have to keep in mind a lot of things. One of the big and important decisions that you have to take is regarding countertops. Not only do you have to match it with the kitchen’s theme, but you also have to think about many other things before installing a countertop and that can be challenging. A countertop is a horizontal work surface in kitchens or other food preparation areas, bathrooms or lavatories, and workrooms in general. It is the flat working surface on top of waist-level kitchen cabinets. If you are redesigning or remodeling or updating your kitchen, you are most definitely splurging a lot on many things. Do not forget about your kitchen tops. Countertops set the tone for the kitchen, so choose materials and a look that not only reflects your style but also is in line with how you use the kitchen. The kitchen countertop is the perfect place to add the ultimate design touch to your kitchen. Regardless of which kitchen countertop ideas you’re attracted to, select materials that are durable and built to withstand the wear and tear associated with preparation and cooking.
Choosing the right countertop is one of the most important aspects of kitchen design that goes beyond the aesthetic. It’s an investment you want to last for years to come, but your lifestyle is ultimately more important than your decorating style when it comes to picking the right type of countertop. Think practically. Do you cook lots of family meals in the kitchen? Is a weekly meal prepping a part of your life? How about baking? Every type of countertop has its pros and cons in terms of hardness and durability, as well as heat and stain resistance. Choose a countertop based on the amount of work you’ll do.
Tips to keep in mind while choosing for a kitchen countertop
- Material – Since this is the most utilized place in the kitchen, the material of the countertop is of prime importance. The material should have aesthetic value, durability, and ease to clean.
- Colour – Why colour is important in choosing a countertop? Because you need to be able to see any spilled items. Suppose you are using black granite, you will hardly be able to see any dirt or spilled items on it. Hence try choosing non-patterned and plain colours, and then you won’t have this problem.
- Consider the Long-term Maintenance and Upkeep – To keep your kitchen countertops spick and span youare going to require routine maintenance and upkeep. Try avoiding using such materials that can’t be cleaned with normal cleaning liquids/detergents, etc. because maintenance is a major factor that will require your time. And time is something that we don’t have. Therefore, it is suggestive that for upkeep, long-term maintenance, and fast cleaning use a material that is easy to clean.
- The texture of the countertops – It is advisable to choose a non-abrasive texture. Using a smooth surface will be easy to pass things from here to there. Also, a smooth surface is much easier to clean. Food items and other things may get stuck in the crevices and holes of the grainy surface. This will not happen on a non-grainy, smooth surface.
Types of Kitchen Countertops Materials
- Marble – Marble countertops have come into prominence in recent years. This natural stone instantly elevates a kitchen, giving a clean, contemporary feel. There’s nothing else that looks quite elegant and like a bright white marble finish. They are available in other colors as well, including shades of gray, brown, taupe, and even green.
- Solid Surface – It is made of a combination of acrylic and resin, solid surface materials, which are often called by their brand names Corian or Avonite. They make great middle-tier options for countertops. There are many benefits to choosing this type of countertop. It’s stain-resistant, seamless, and most damage can be sanded out. However, it’s important to keep in mind that solid surfaces aren’t heat-resistant, so make sure to have plenty of iron tripods or small plates, coasters on hand.
- Quartz – Quartz countertops aren’t made of 100 percent quartz but rather they are a composite stone engineered from natural quartz combined with a resin binder. This stone is also non-porous, incredibly hard, and never needs to be re-sealed.
- Tile – Tile countertops are making a comeback in recent times. A tile is an option worth considering. Tiles are available in a variety of sizes and shapes from classic squares to subway tiles and even trendy hexagons in different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and even natural stones.
Fresh and Modern Countertops Designs
- Kitchen Countertops in contrasting colours – If you want to go for a bold effect, select a countertop in a lively color. Some of the top choices include yellows, oranges, and lime green. The secret is in the contrast. If you want your countertop to stand out, select a countertop colour that pops or stands out from the cabinetry.
- Curved and Organically Shaped Kitchen Countertops – Add a little curve to your countertop design. A curve, especially in the seating area, creates an inviting place where it’s easier to sit and have a face to face conversation with others.
- Thick Slab Kitchen Countertops – The latest trend in contemporary kitchens is the thick slab countertop effect. While most countertops are normally 2” thick, choosing a 3 – 5” thick countertop creates an anchored, stately look. Remember to adjust cabinet heights accordingly to make up for the height increase from the thicker countertops.
- Two-Tone Kitchen Countertops – Go for a high-end designer look with two different countertop surfaces for your kitchen. This look was once exclusively used by chefs and bakers who preferred a designated, cold marble countertop in one section for rolling dough and stainless steel for the rest of the kitchen counters for clean up ease. The two-tone approach will create a one-of-a-kind kitchen.
Hopefully, this blog will help you to counter all or at least some of your kitchen countertops queries. Just reminding you do not forget to seal the junction of your countertops and wall. Because major damp issues in the kitchen and related areas occur due to water seepage from the mentioned junction. Or the easiest way will be to contact Healthy Homes. We are always at your service.
