If you’re looking to add value to your Atlanta home, renovating the kitchen is a great place to start. It’s not uncommon for kitchen remodels to earn above 60% of their value back when the home sells. One of the most dominant features in the kitchen is the countertop. You want your counters to not only be aesthetically pleasing, but also highly functional. Fortunately you have a lot of kitchen countertop choices.
Kitchen Countertop Choices to Consider
Here are some of your many material choices, plus some pros and cons of each. There are many options, so if you want to guarantee that you select the right one for your kitchen needs, consult a knowledgeable contractor.
Natural Materials
Using natural elements for countertops was once a popular trend, but today, it seems to be a design preference that’s here to stay.
Natural stone is a very common countertop material. Granite, slate, marble and soapstone are all options. Some are more expensive than others – granite becoming one of the more cost-controlled – but homeowners can’t get enough of the natural, organic appeal they add to their kitchens. The main downside to natural stone countertops is their porosity. Easily able to absorb liquid, natural stone has to be well sealed, and they often require special cleaning.
Wood has long been a popular choice for butcher blocks and kitchen islands. They make wonderful counters, too. A variety of wood countertops are available in several stains, but as with natural stone, they require a bit of effort in order to maintain their beauty.
Did you know you could have countertops made from lava stone? Lava that has transformed into a stone-like solid is covered with enamel, and the overall look is similar to that of tile.
Manmade materials.
There is something to be said for the affordability and diversity of manmade countertops.
Take laminate, for example. It’s been featured in kitchens for decades and is still one of the more popular selections. In fact, laminate countertops are still being improved upon and are now available in an impressive array of colors and textures. They are also one of the more affordable options. Unfortunately, laminate is not heat tolerant and it easily chips.
Manufactured stone countertops are growing in popularity. They mimic the appearance of natural stone but eliminate the natural elements’ less desirable qualities. These hybrids are less porous and require little maintenance.
Stainless steel countertops are common in industrial kitchens, as well as kitchens with more modern, sleek design. If you are not a fan of the shiny, silver appearance, there are several other metal countertop options. Copper and pewter are just two.
One of the newer kitchen countertop trends is concrete. It’s extraordinarily sturdy, and because of its slightly rough appearance, dings and dents are no big deal. Plus, you can choose from an assortment of textures and colors. Acid washed concrete can take on all the colors of the rainbow.
We can help you with your kitchen renovation and review your kitchen countertop choices.
Glazer Construction specializes in all types of construction projects in the Metro Atlanta area. To learn more more about beautiful Atlanta kitchen remodeling with a 1-year warranty contact us at 404.683.9848, email Randy@GlazerConstruction.com or complete our Fast Form below.