Countertops | Houzz

Whats the best material for my countertops? Before you start weighing the pros and cons of a certain material, take a minute to analyze your familys needs and how you plan to use your new bathroom or kitchen counters. If you have children or simply lack the time to take proper care of the more high maintenance materials like marble, it may be best to look for a hardier option. With that in mind, take a moment to consider the color options, availability, finishes and care requirements for each choice: Granite: Perhaps the most popular choice, thanks to its wide variety of colors and unique patterns, the cost of granite counters depends largely on the availability of your pattern and color of choice. If its a more common style that doesnt have to be shipped from overseas or specially requested, granite can be an affordable option. Keep in mind youll need to ensure its properly sealed and dont forget to pick your finish! Quartz: Quartz or solid surface counters are very durable and require little maintenance. If the surface becomes scratched or scuffed, it can simply be buffed out with fine-grade sandpaper. This hardy choice can also handle high heat from pots and pans or even curling irons, plus it has anti-microbial qualities. Concrete: Leave the drab visions of gray, gray and more gray behind. Concrete countertops can be customized with a pigment of your choice, and different finishes can up the ante by revealing texture and veining. A trowel finish leaves the concrete looking smooth and seamless, while a ground finish unveils the texture of sand aggregate. A pressed finish will reveal veining that resembles that of marble. Keep in mind youll need to seal your concrete countertop up to four times a year and wax it every two to three months. Butcher block: This option is easy to clean and provides the best cutting surface to keep your knives sharp for a longer period of time. Scratches and scuffs can be carefully sanded out, but youll want to oil your wood countertops often to keep them in prime condition. Laminate: Your most affordable choice, laminate countertops feature a huge selection of colors and designs, including those that mimic the look of granite and quartz. If you choose laminate, be wary of placing any hot pans directly on the surface as it can scorch easily. Soapstone: A beautiful choice, soapstone may not be able to stand up to heavy-duty tasks. Soapstone and similar natural stone materials like marble and limestone are softer than granite, which means theyll require greater care to keep them in tiptop shape. Their porous quality also means theyll be more susceptible to stains. Can I add a decorative edge to my bathroom or kitchen countertops? Depending on what material you choose, you may have a few options when it comes to a decorative edge. Of course, the standard square edge can look elegant in a modern kitchen or bathroom, but dont be afraid to add some flair with a beveled edge. A radius edge will round out those corners for a softer look, while an ogee edge expands on the beveled style with layers of deep beveling. Bullnose edges are similar to a radius edge but feature a flatter, softer top edge.

Read the original post:
Countertops | Houzz