Is your kitchen about to undergo a major renovation? Remodeling the most popular room in the house can add a significant amount of value to your property while giving you a space that you can be proud of. If you’re working with a designer, you may have already been asked to decide the type of material you want for your new kitchen countertop. Since each type of countertop has its own merits and aesthetic appeal, choosing the right one for your home may be a bit of a challenge. If you’re having a hard time choosing the focal point of your future kitchen, here are some things you should know about the most popular countertop materials:
Quartz
If you’re looking for a durable surface that offers many style options, quartz is an excellent choice. Quartz is one of the most widely available materials on the planet and contains only 8 to 10% acrylic resins and pigments. It’s available in a wide variety of styles and colours, and you have the option of choosing a smooth or flecked finish. Why do people love to put quartz in their kitchen? Unlike other substances, quartz is reliable, dependable, durable and doesn’t need sealing or resealing every few months. It’s easy to clean and you don’t have to worry about unwanted cracks or stains. The main consideration when using it as a countertop in your kitchen is that it is not heat resistant.
Marble
This material is what many people call la crème de la crème of hard surfaces. What it lacks in durability and stain resistance, it makes up for in sheer beauty and timelessness. Unlike quartz, marble is very heat resistant, but because it is so porous (even prolonged exposure to a slice of lemon can start to diminish its finish), special care is needed to ensure its longevity. Many people have installed marble in their kitchens and have been perfectly happy with them. However, if you’re leaning toward this material, be sure you understand that some TLC is needed to make it last. If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen, remember that marble’s porous surface means that stains come easy, so getting it professionally sealed upon installation is crucial. Treat your marble countertop every six months with a spray sealant.
Granite
If you’re on the lookout for a heavy-duty countertop and your budget can afford a higher-end material, granite is probably what you’re looking for. Unique, beautiful, and durable, granite won’t let you down. Because it’s such a heavy substance, the installation may be more expensive, but once it’s settled in, you’ll be happy about your investment. There are so many style and colour options to choose from that it goes with practically any design choice. It is also heat, scratch, crack, and water resistant, so it’s perfect for a household with many cooks. Be sure to top up the professional sealant every year and you’ll enjoy your granite countertop for years to come.
Ask Us About Other Countertops
While quartz, marble, and granite have been the most popular choices for some time, many homeowners are starting to look elsewhere. If you want something different, but just as stylish, modern, and durable, other popular countertop choices such as quartzite, Dekton, glass, and butcher block offer a unique alternative to the big three mentioned above. If you’re interested in learning more about what countertop is right for your kitchen remodel, contact Cuisines Nuenza today or visit our kitchen showroom in Montreal.