There are many different countertop materials available in the market today. Let’s talk about the different types of countertops you may see today. When you think countertop, you might think of the different types of stone materials.
For stone countertops, you might think of marble. After all, marble is remarkably well known and adored for its appearance. Then there is granite and quartz as well which are also very popular.
Stone Countertops
Marbles are natural stones; large amounts of marble are underground. Marbles are metamorphic rocks; they were once limestones but then transformed into marble under heat and pressure deep under the earth. Giant chunks of marble are collected and transported to factories. They are cut into marble slabs in factories. Then coated after installing them in customers’ homes.
Marble’s appearance has been popular since its debut. Everyone loves the look of marble; they love it so much that people often replicate marble’s appearance with other materials.
Granites are natural stones just like Marble. They are mined first, and the stones are cut into slabs in factories. The slabs are then cut to orders and installed in kitchens. The sealants are then applied to the stone after installation.
Granites are igneous rock, the components are melted and formed together deep under the ground. Granites are stronger than marble and they are less prone to stains. However, sealants still need to be applied once every few years.
Quartz countertops are man-made. Quartz minerals are mined then crushed into powder. Then they are mixed with binding materials. Specific patterns can be made with quartz molds. Quartz is known for replicating the looks of other stones.
A lot of people have quartz countertops that look like marble because they're cheaper and more durable when compared to the natural slabs of marble. Quartz countertops are also easier to maintain, without the need to constantly apply sealants.
Other Countertop Materials
Butcher block countertops have become a popular alternative for stone countertops. Butcher blocks are cheaper than stone countertops and are lighter in weight. It is easier for DIYers to cut and install butcher block countertops than a traditional stone one by themselves.
The butcher block brings more color into the kitchen and adds warmth to the space. They are similar to marble when it comes to maintenance, they need to be sealed every 6 months or so.
Stainless steel countertops are popularly used in restaurants. However, they are slowly gaining momentum in everyday homes as well. Stainless steel countertops are easy to maintain and clean which is exactly why they are loved in commercial kitchens.
Stainless steel countertops are nonporous, making it easy to clean spills without leaving behind any stains. However, stainless steel is more expensive when compared to any of the other previously mentioned materials.
Epoxy resin countertops come in many varieties. They can be completely resin, or they can be applied on top of the current countertop you have, or they can be poured between two pieces of wood to create a cool pattern.
Homeowners can make their own custom countertop or have a professional make a custom countertop with epoxy for them. You can really let your imagination run wild with Epoxy countertops. However, they are less resilient to heat.
And that concludes this blog post about the different types of countertop options. There are stone countertops, wood countertops, stainless steel countertops, and resin countertops. They each have their own benefits and drawbacks. With benefits such as they are cheaper, easier to install, or easier to maintain. Which type of countertop do you have at home? Which type would you like to have in your future kitchen?
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