The countertop choices of today are nothing like they were a few years ago. Just five years ago granite was exotic, stainless steel was too cold and resin countertops were considered a DIY project. Today, you have a lot more stone choices than just granite or marble and for those that are looking for a more eco-friendly upgrade, there are plenty of choices there too. In fact, all of the choices out there can quickly overwhelm a person when they are remodeling their kitchen – but it does not have to. By exploring all of your option you can see which works best for your kitchen style and budget.
Granite Countertops
These are one of the most popular today and work in the modern as well as the traditional kitchen. Granite is elegant, rich and luxurious – not to mention easy to match up with just about any color. While it used to be one of the more expensive options, the prices have become much more favorable. Granite is a natural stone with excellent durability – but you will need to do a little minor annual maintenance (painless we promise).
[pin_board url=”https://www.pinterest.com/arbathandkitche/granite-countertops/” size=”custom” image_width=”100″ board_width=”900″ board_height=”450″]Quartz Countertops
Looking for something 100 percent maintenance-free? Then quartz is the way to go. Quartz is an engineered stone countertop that comes in brilliant colors and consists of a combination of quartz crystals and natural substances. They do not require the annual sealing that granite counters do and they are stain-free compared to marble. While they do come with a hefty upfront price, you may find it is well worth the investment.
[pin_board url=”https://www.pinterest.com/arbathandkitche/quartz-countertop-ideas/” size=”custom” image_width=”100″ board_width=”900″ board_height=”450″]Laminate Countertops
Do not scoff at the idea of laminate. Today’s laminate is nothing like what is sitting on your grandma’s counters. In fact, laminate is a popular option today because it is affordable, attractive and still durable. Today’s laminate options can mimic real stone and unless you’re looking at it up close – you might not even notice.
[pin_board url=”https://www.pinterest.com/arbathandkitche/laminate-counters/” size=”custom” image_width=”100″ board_width=”900″ board_height=”450″]Concrete Countertops
The latest trend in kitchen countertops is concrete. It’s rustic, elegant and fun. You can stain the concrete using an acid wash technique or even a dye placed right into the concrete to create a natural stone look – and with the right talent you could mimic expensive marble! Concrete does require a little extra maintenance and you will need to be cautious about excess moisture on the counters, but they are exceptionally durable.
[pin_board url=”https://www.pinterest.com/arbathandkitche/concrete-countertops/” size=”custom” image_width=”100″ board_width=”900″ board_height=”450″]Recycled Glass Countertops
Recycled glass countertops are just like they sound. They have a variety of broken, recycled glass pieces (can you say reused wine bottles?) covered with a durable coating to create a unique, beautiful countertop finish. It goes well with modern designs, but with the right colors and styles it could pair nicely in a traditional kitchen too.
[pin_board url=”https://www.pinterest.com/arbathandkitche/recycled-glass-counters/” size=”custom” image_width=”100″ board_width=”900″ board_height=”450″]Butcherblock Countertops
Butcherblock can be used on your entire kitchen surface or as an accent on your kitchen island. It is fairly easy to maintain as long as you keep the wood sealed and do not let water or liquids stand on the surface too long. It offers a more rustic, rich look than stone surfaces and great for food preparation.
[pin_board url=”https://www.pinterest.com/arbathandkitche/butcher-block-counters/” size=”custom” image_width=”100″ board_width=”900″ board_height=”450″]Marble Countertops
Marble is beautiful for bathrooms and kitchens, but it can stain. If you do install marble in your kitchen, you will want to make sure you have it sealed properly. That being said, marble is extremely elegant and will certainly add value to your project (and your home for that matter).
[pin_board url=”https://www.pinterest.com/arbathandkitche/marble-counter-ideas/” size=”custom” image_width=”100″ board_width=”900″ board_height=”450″]Eco-Friendly Countertops
Yes, you can replace your counters and not impact the environment. You do not have to be living the green lifestyle to enjoy eco-friendly counters either. Eco-friendly options are becoming more available because manufacturers are noticing the demand (and appeal). Just some eco-friendly options out there today include recycled paper countertops (sealed with resin), palm wood counters, reclaimed wood counters (or island features), recycled glass and bamboo end-grain counters.
[pin_board url=”https://www.pinterest.com/arbathandkitche/eco-friendly-countertop-ideas/” size=”custom” image_width=”100″ board_width=”900″ board_height=”450″]Ready to Transform Your Kitchen?
Sometimes all it takes is a new countertop to completely transform your kitchen. A Revitalized Bath & Kitchen can help you customize your kitchen with unique countertops that are as beautiful to look at as they are fun to use. Get started by scheduling a free consultation with our design team at 619-644-3320 or fill out an online contact form with your questions.
