One of the quickest ways to completely change the feel of a kitchen is to have the countertops replaced. Whether your countertops look dated or you inherited a kitchen with countertops that have chips and nicks, you may want to consider doing a kitchen remodel with a trusted remodeler like Sterling Works and have fresh countertops installed.
When it comes to kitchen countertops, many homeowners love granite due to the material’s beauty and exceptional durability. Granite is quite expensive, though. Fear not! There are numerous alternatives to granite kitchen countertops that are more affordable, yet offer amazing results. When considering which type of countertop to use for your kitchen remodel, keep these options in mind:
Engineered Quartz
Engineered quartz countertops are made from ground quartz crystals. The finished product surprisingly mimics the beauty of marble, a significant plus for those who enjoy the look of this timeless material. Despite this, engineered quartz countertops are much more durable and require less maintenance than their marble counterparts. On top of this, engineered quartz resists cracks and various stains, making the material a natural choice for the kitchen. Engineered quartz countertops also come in uniform neutral colors, allowing you to easily add them to a kitchen regardless of design.
Soapstone
Looking for something a little more eye-catching? Soapstone countertops may be the choice for you. The material is naturally dark in color, blending well with white-walled kitchens. Soapstone is an excellent heat insulator, so home cooks can place piping hot pots and pans on their countertops with no worries. Soapstone countertops are also a fantastic choice for environmentally conscious homeowners since soapstone is an abundant, natural material and does not require the use of harsh chemicals during production.
Zinc
If you are interested in a “classic” look, zinc countertops can fulfill that purpose quite well. The countertop material has been used for centuries thanks to its resiliency. Homeowners are sure to love the fact that zinc is naturally resists bacteria and heat quite well. Since the material is non-porous, zinc countertops will also help you save a few hundred dollars on resealing costs. The best part is that zinc is a living patina, which means that the look of your countertops will evolve over time and will only become more beautiful as the years go by.
Lava Stone
Although it is somewhat of a newcomer in the kitchen countertop industry, lava stone has quickly become a popular choice. As the name implies, the stone is made from volcanic lava. The result is a countertop that offers amazing heat resistance and longevity. As you can imagine, the material is quite hard, allowing it to resist shocks and survive dropped pots and the like without a scratch or stain.
Sources:
All About: Lava Stone Countertops, TheKitchn.com
Your Kitchen: 10 Great Alternatives to Granite Counters, Houzz.com
