How to Choose a Countertop for Your Kitchen Remodel

Introduction

If you're like most homeowners, your kitchen is the hub of activity and a place where everyone gathers. Changing your countertops is a great way to change the look of your space. The best way to choose which material to use for your counters is by considering what will work best with your needs. If you need something durable, consider quartz or granite; if you are looking for affordability, consider laminate or wood veneer. Whatever material you choose, make sure it complements the rest of the design in your home!

Check out our kitchen remodel cost blog!

What type of countertop is right for me?

When choosing a countertop for your kitchen remodel, you'll need to consider your needs. What will you be using your countertop for? If you plan to cook a lot, you'll need a countertop that's durable and easy to clean. If your countertop won’t see heavy use, a less durable material may be fine. Here’s a breakdown of the most common materials

Helpful Tip: If you decide to consider replacing your countertop you will need to provide the countertop retail store with some dimensions of your space for them to provide an accurate estimate.

Wood Countertops

A classic countertop material that is affordable and available in a range of species and finishes. It is inexpensive compared to some other countertop materials but it can be delicate as it is easily damaged by heat, water, or knives. Wood countertops can also be prone to stains if not cleaned properly. Wood is perfect for a dining table but not so much as your kitchen work surface.

Laminate

These are your lower-end countertops, good for those on a tight budget. They can be had for quite cheap and don’t need to be sealed, they’re even available in a variety of colors. However, laminate countertops are easily damaged by heat and can scratch easily. There will also be visible seams between the sections.

Granite Countertops

A very popular choice due to its durability and unique appearance. Granite countertops offer a high-end look and are resistant to heat, you can put hot pots and pans directly on the countertop without worry! Clean up is also easy and they don’t stain easily if sealed property each year. Granite countertops are very heavy and they can chip or crack. Occasionally, additional support will need to be added to ensure a strong base is holding the countertop. 

Quartz countertops

One of the top options along with granite countertops. Quartz offers durability, scratch, chip, dent, and stain resistance. It is a non-porous material that is easy to clean and doesn’t require any additional sealing. Quartz countertops can also be one of the more expensive options, but there are some economical colors as well! 

Marble Countertops

Often a popular alternative to Granite and Quartz countertops, marble is also durable and resistant to heat. Marble definitely makes for beautiful countertops but it can dent and chip fairly easily. Like granite, it is also a heavy material and will also require resealing. 

Solid-Surfaces

A happy medium for many homeowners, they’re more affordable than the stone options but more expensive than laminate. These countertops can also be installed without seams for a clean look. No resealing is required and they can even be resurfaced. However, these countertops can scratch easily if knives are used directly on the surface, they are prone to dents and will be damaged by high heat.

Ultra-compact Surfaces

An up-and-comer in the countertop options, these are extremely durable. Scratch proof, stain proof, and scorch proof, these countertops are nearly indestructible. These countertops are perfect for indoor and outdoor use and simply need to be cleaned with soap and water. Ultra-compact surfaces are also available in large slab sizes. As you can imagine, these countertops are on the expensive side of options, and you’re limited in fabricators and installers. So be sure to check availability before you decide on these countertops, so you don’t end up frustrated down the line. 

Where to buy ultra compact countertops?

Homestead Timbers in Marne, MI has a few options for ultra-compact countertops. Stop by our showroom to check out some samples and color options. 

Conclusion

When remodeling your kitchen, the countertop is a very important decision. You'll want to consider your needs and budget when making your choice. There are many different types of countertops available, so you're sure to find one that's perfect for your kitchen. You may also want to consider the color and style of the countertop before making your final decision. With so many options available, you're sure to find a countertop that's perfect for your kitchen remodel. Budget, needs, style, and color are all important factors to consider when choosing a countertop for your kitchen.