Are you planning to renovate your home? A complete home renovation is never complete without reinventing your kitchen. The market now offers a wide array of choices of countertops for kitchens. For a beginner, it would be quite difficult to choose the right kitchen countertop. There are a lot of considerations. This article will give you a rundown of the eight most popular choices of countertops for kitchens, you will also be provided with the materials’ positive and negative aspects.

1. Granite Countertops
Granite can be considered as one of the most preferred kitchen countertop. Granite spells kitchen elegance. This material comes in a variety of colors, the choices can be endless. Granite can withstand extreme heat. Though granite is quite expensive, the material can last a lifetime, thereby giving you value for your money. If granite countertops are not properly sealed, the stones will have the tendency to absorb stains. The countertop will be prone to cracks or damages if the material is not properly installed.

2. Engineered Stone Countertops
93% of engineered stone is made of quartz particles. Engineered stone comes in a wide array of colors. Its surface is nonporous, making it resistant to scratches. Maintenance is easy and does not require annual sealing. One downside is that it is quite expensive compared to other materials countertops for kitchens.

3. Solid Surface Countertops
One advantage of the solid surface countertop, scratches are easily sanded out. These countertops can be custom-made according to your preference. They come in a variety of rainbow colors. They are resistant to stains. A disadvantage is their vulnerability to hot pans.

4. Ceramic Countertops
Ceramic tile is known for its durability and easy maintenance. It is very affordable which is why it is the material of choice for average homes. Ceramic tiles come in a variety of colors, textures, and designs. They can withstand hot pans. They are inexpensive; however, custom-made ceramic tiles cost more than the ordinary ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are prone to cracks and chips.

5. Laminated Countertops
These countertops are often trademarks like Formica and Nevamar. They are synthetics that are plastic-coated. Laminated countertops have a smooth surface and require low maintenance. They are durable and cost less than other countertop materials. They come in a wide range of colors. One downside though, scratches are irreparable.

6. Wood Countertops
Wood countertops give warmth to your kitchen. They come in a variety of colors and finishes. Common hardwood materials for countertops are maple and oak. Wood countertops require low maintenance. They also have a smooth surface. Durability is not its quality, though. Water can damage wood countertops over time. Stains can be very hard to clean. Scratches need to be oiled or sealed.

7. Stainless Steel Countertops
If you a more modern look for your kitchen, it is advisable that you use stainless steel countertops. Durability is excellent. Stainless steel counters are heat resistant. These countertops are easy to clean. The downside of stainless steel counters is its price. They can be very expensive. They are prone to dents. Stainless steel countertops can be a little noisy.

8.Soapstone Countertops
These countertops are commonly dark gray in color. These counters can be seen in most historic homes; however, these are starting to become popular even in contemporary homes. These counters would need regular maintenance to retain its luster and smoothness.

With the list of countertops for kitchens that was given to you, you will surely have a better idea of what countertops would be best for your home.

Author Bio: William I. Neil is an architect, providing information and directories about home improvement, vanity countertop, granite countertops and solid surface countertop

Category: Home Management
Keywords: granite countertop, countertop, countertops, kitchen countertops, kitchen, home