Choosing the right countertop when remodeling
When planning to remodel your kitchen or bathroom, every decision is an important one. But one of the most important decisions, both visually and functionally, is countertop material.
Think about it — what’s one of the first things people notice when they visit a remodeled or newly built custom home? That’s right — the countertops. Where do a significant percentage of everyday kitchen and bathroom activities take place? Again, the countertops. Your countertops need to reflect your personal sense of style and beauty while also providing durability.
The chosen material will be covering a lot of surface area in the most valuable and regularly used rooms of your home. Depending on the material you choose, it likely will represent a sizable portion of your total remodeling budget. So, before making this important decision, do your research and consult with trusted industry professionals.
Remember, although you don’t need to break the bank to find good countertops, typically you will get what you pay for. Also, the quality of the fabrication work matters just as much as the quality of the countertop material.
Here are some key considerations related to the most popular countertop options:
Granite
Granite remains the most popular countertop material, and for good reason. It’s incredibly durable and absolutely beautiful. Every slab of granite is completely unique, with its own “character” that comes from the mix of colors and natural movement. As a natural stone, granite is porous and must be sealed as part of installation and periodically thereafter. But, if you use good-quality granite that is properly sealed from the beginning, the required maintenance is very rare and easy to execute. Granite countertops will last forever.
Quartz
Engineered quartz has become more popular in recent years as an alternative to natural stone. It features many color options, durability, and low maintenance. Comprised of various stone materials and resin, quartz can mimic the look of granite or marble. Given its lack of porosity, quartz does not require periodic application of a protective sealer. Another benefit of quartz countertops: they’re green. No, not actually green; they’re environmentally friendly. However, quartz is not recommended for outdoor use or in other areas that receive a great deal of direct sunlight due to the impact UV rays may have on the resin over time.
Quartzite
Quartz and quartzite — although they sound similar, the two materials are completely different. Quartz is a man-made material while quartzite is a natural stone. Popular for its natural beauty and durability, quartzite resists heat, etching and scratching more than other surfaces. And, each slab is distinct, giving your new counters a very personalized look and feel. Quartzite comes in an array of colors and veining that ranges from subtle to bold. Quartzite looks like marble but wears like granite. On average, expect to pay a little more for quartzite.
Marble
Traditionally, marble is associated with luxury. You’ll often find it installed on high-end floors and in bathrooms. Marble looks very attractive to many consumers, with its natural, gentle swirls. You must be aware of the fact that relative to granite and quartzite, it is a softer stone and not appropriate for kitchens. Acidic cooking oils and cleaners, as well as common food juices and drinks, can etch marble in the event of a spill. Marble also scratches and dings easily from the impact of a dropped kitchen utensil or other object. However, marble can be an excellent choice in bathrooms, if you provide the proper care.
This article was provided by a member of the Remodelers Council of the Greater Houston Builders Association. The Remodelers Council is dedicated to promoting professionalism and public awareness of the remodeling profession through education, certification and service to the Houston community. To reach the author contact jeff.reina@trifection.net. For more information on this article, please contact Lorraine Hart at lorraine@idealconsulting.net. To join the council or to find a professional remodeler in your area, please visit www.ghba.org.