Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1499105
Counter Picks A guide to choosing kitchen countertops. Kitchen countertops are a big deal—they're a focal point, communicating your style and setting the tone of your cherished cooking space. And that might be why they're one of the most expensive portions of a home. Whether your interior design says luxurious and opulent or timeless and practical, your kitchen countertops are likely commanding the look. A significant investment, it's crucial to consider a few factors when deciding on a kitchen countertop that's perfect for you. Here are five. DURABILITY Some kitchen surfaces are strong and can uphold the wear and tear of consistent use, while others are soft and require more TLC. To determine the level of durability you'd want from your countertops, examine your lifestyle and review how often you use your kitchen, what your countertops are used for, and your expectations for sustainability. STAINING Markings left over from wine, coffee, burns, and more can be unsightly on a beautiful countertop. Check countertop material for temperature tolerance and absorbency, which might be too sensitive for your family's daily habits. Additionally, some countertops call for special cleaning liquids and products. Ask yourself if you have the bandwidth for cleaning and maintenance, and go from there. COST Your budget will help narrow down the types of countertops you can afford, but you might want to think about the resale value of the material, too. A quality kitchen with granite countertops can add about 7% more value to a home and is a big selling point for potential buyers. When setting your budget for countertops, decide if resale value is important to you now or will be in the future. LOOK Countertops can impact the overall look of a room. The color and design of the kitchen counters, appliances, and furniture should match or complement the color and design of your countertops. Also, consider the possibility of grout lines on your countertops, as they may—or may not—affect your approval of the end result. FEEL Observe the feel of the material: smooth, textured, soft, or hard; and the overall atmosphere of the room: inviting, warm, clean, or cool. Soft materials feel comfortable and cozy, and hard surfaces promote a stylish and confident vibe. Find a balance so the feel of your countertops, and ultimately your kitchen, is compatible with your way of life. Top 5 Countertop Choices at a Glance A snapshot of what's good—and maybe not so good—about five of the top-selling countertops. GRANITE Pro: Adds to a home's resale value, has timeless appeal, and is low-maintenance. Con: It can be pricy for the high-end, specialty-grade stuff. QUARTZ Pro: Durable, long-lasting, and affordable. Con: It's an engineered material, so it doesn't have the uniqueness of a natural stone. CONCRETE Pro: Versatile and can be colored, stained, and textured. Con: It demands proper sealing and resealing, and can crack over time. WOOD Pro: Comes in several varieties and is a great surface for hot pots and pans and chopping. Con: It's susceptible to water damage and staining. LAMINATE Pro: Inexpensive, comes in many styles, and is easy to install and maintain. Con: It doesn't last long and can burn. VALUEADD 27