Countertop Products

If you tend to agonize over decisions, choosing a countertop surface can be a lengthy process.  With many diverse and unique options, countertop surfaces allow you to set the mood for any room.  Similar to many decisions when remodeling your home, the first place to start should be setting your budget.  Although there are materials that may be outside your budget, many of them can be imitated with cheaper options.  Countertop products tend to be priced per square foot which can range from $5 to $300. 

Besides your budget, there are other factors to consider when choosing a surface product for your countertops.  You should think about the look you want to create, what is practical for your home (how much mess you will have in a room), and how long you want your countertops to last. 

While some countertops like engineered stone require almost no maintenance, others made of natural stone offer elegance and beauty.  Of the numerous countertop products, there are a few traditionally popular materials.  In this section we will discuss laminate, solid surfaces, engineered stone, granite, marble, soapstone and concrete countertops. 

A Brief Overview of Countertop Surfaces:

- Practically speaking, solid surface, natural stone and engineered stone tend to hold up best. These surfaces are also the most stain resistant.
- Laminate and solid surface are available in the widest variety of colors.
- Solid surfacing offers flexibility that is ideal for forming decorative shapes or integral sinks. 
- Once sealed, concrete surfaces are strong and durable.
- Natural stone such as marble and granite offer a unique and elegant look. 
- Engineered stone is almost maintenance free and is the most durable surface.
- Soapstone is millions of years old and provides a one of a kind texture. 
- The cost of countertops depend factors such as quality and type of material, difficulty of installation, and edge treatment material and design. Laminate is the least expensive countertop material, running from between $5 to $20 per square foot. 

Getting Started

It’s time to weigh your options and choose the best countertop material for your home.  The options are endless so learn all you can and make an educated decision.  And, if you can’t decide on just one countertop product, you can get the best of all worlds by carving out space for a mix of surface materials!  Maybe a granite island for serving, a solid surface for preparing heavy foods, and concrete for embedding vintage tiles or beautiful sea shells.

Read on to find out more about the general characteristics of each material.

Source: Express Countertops, www.expresscountertops.com