Countertops for Kitchen- An essential

A kitchen is the most important part of one’s home. Also, it is the most utilized room in the house since it accounts for various regular activities like cooking, cleaning utensils, cutting of vegetables/fruits and others.

The overall interior design, layout and arrangement of your kitchen can add aesthetic appeal to your home. This is where kitchen countertops come into picture. A kitchen countertop is nothing but a horizontal surface used in the kitchen which may be used for any of the activities mentioned above. 

Factors to select Kitchen Countertop:

There are different sorts of kitchen countertops accessible in the market. Some factors you should consider while selecting the type of kitchen countertops are:

• Functions (preparation of food or use of electronic appliances etc.)
• Durability
• Aesthetics
• Budget
• Maintenance
• Lifestyle

 

Types of  materials to be used for the Kitchen Countertops:

Granite Counters –

Image	Features	Benefits	Affordability
	It can hold stains when properly sealed. Has very good hardness. Is very resistant to heat Available in variety of colors. More durable than other materials	Granite is the most popular countertop surfac. Is resistant to cuts and scratches. It stands up well to regular wear and tear. Gives aesthetic appeal to a kitchen Can Last forever Since the stone is so magnificent, it adds excellence to even the most unattractive of kitchens.	Granite prices can vary from cheap for commonly available stone  to high prices for exotic ones

Engineered Stone (Quartz) –

Image	Features	Benefits	Affordability
	Has a non porous surface Hard and flexible Accessible in huge number of colors	Resists scratches, stains and maintains cleanliness and hygiene since it will not harbor bacteria. Makes it more popular than granite. Adds versatility to your kitchen	More expensive than granite

Solid Surface –

Image	Features	Benefits	Affordability
	Solid surfaces are easy to clean and are non-porous. Can be quickly repaired and refinished when damaged. You can choose from different colors and textures. Waterproof	Makes them hygienic as they will not allow bacteria/virus to accumulate. Solid surfaces are very easy to maintain. Due to their versatility, you can custom-make your home interior. You do not have to worry about water leaks near sinks	Can be reasonably costly

Wood or Butcher Block-

Image	Features	Benefits	Affordability
	Easy to clean, Can be sanded. Smooth Easily available Can be resealed as required. Extensive variety of colors and wraps up	Extremely Durable.You can cut on them. Can buy them locally. Low maintenanceand waterproof. Add versatility	Although cheap, since prices vary depending on the quality of wood, can turn quite expensive

Soapstone Counters –

Image	Features	Benefits	Affordability
	Less brittle, non- porous. Profound color and recoloring is safe. Smooth feel	Ideal for sinks. Can customize your kitchen as you want	Costly compared to even granite and quartz.

Marble -.

Image	Features	Benefits	Affordability
	Waterproof Heatproof Effortlessly re colors. Resistant to scratching, cracking and breaking	Good for sinks. Longevity. Adds versatility Durable	Cheaper than other natural stone varieties. In view of its high sticker price, marble isn’t regularly observed on the countertops of entire kitchens

Concrete Counters – 

Image	Features	Benefits	Affordability
	Scratch Safe Can be color- tinted	Good for cutting. Looks fascinating and strange, Good fir decorative purposes.	Mid to high range on cost

Picking the correct material for your counter is significant as it influences the usefulness of your kitchen. Kitchen countertops should be wisely chosen to suit your lifestyle and culture, apart from using them to enhance your kitchen’s look.