When it comes to countertops, there are a lot of choices

When selecting a countertop for the kitchen, it seems there are countless choices available. Lets see what some of those choices are.

Technological advances have made just about any material possible for use as a countertop.

Perhaps that is why the choices seem overwhelming. Glass, concrete, stainless steel, wood, natural stone and man-made stone are some of the choices. Then there are all the colors available.

Glass tops are beautiful, and though they are not as fragile as you might expect, there is the care problem. The glass is tempered and can hold up to just about anything, but the edges and corners can be damaged if youre not careful.

Concrete tops come in any color you wish since the color is applied to the concrete rather than the concrete coming in a color of its own. It needs to be sealed to resist staining, but this countertop is very strong and long-lasting.

How about stainless steel? Theres a simplicity and sleekness about it. Though it wont stain, this material can certainly acquire dents over time. Stainless-steel countertops can come in many different designs and finishes.

They can be textured with different grains, patterns or surfaces that can hide these flaws. But stainless steel is not smudge-proof. Stainless has a reputation for showing fingerprints.

Wood is rich and beautiful in the kitchen, and many people opt for a wood or butcher-block top. Know, however, that it will discolor if installed around the sink.

A natural-oil finish is safe for direct knife work, but requires cleaning and oiling on a regular basis. So it is wise to cut on a cutting board and not directly on the wood countertop. Wood will burn and stain, but can be sanded to get the look of its natural beauty back.

Man-made stone is attractive and long-lasting and can withstand much abuse. And such tops come in a variety of colors.

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When it comes to countertops, there are a lot of choices