How to choose kitchen countertops: pros, cons, and inspiration

One of the most practical and functional spaces in any home is the kitchen countertops. Its man-made surfaces, countertops, kitchen benches, or wall coverings - contain most of space's amenities. Therefore, it is essential to build kitchens with the most resistant and hygienic materials. Beyond these requirements, it is also important to pay attention to aesthetics and profitability, adapting the space to the dynamics of each family.

In the following article, we have collected some of the most common kitchen supplies in use today and noted the pros and cons of each.

1-Granite:

Granite is a natural stone with a unique feel and color. Because it is relatively heat resistant, it is the preferred option for kitchens and bathrooms.

Advantages

Sustainable. Easy to clean and maintain. Excellent value. Shock resistant.

Disadvantages;

Not always resistant to food or acid products.

2- Marble:

Marble can be one of the more sophisticated material options due to its impressive and elegant appearance. Since it is made of natural limestone, each stripe in its composition is unique.

Advantages:

High aesthetic value and heat resistance. Marble can easily clean.

Disadvantages:

Extremely expensive. It should be sealed with antibacterial stain and antibacterial resin due to its high porosity. Low impact resistance.

3- Artificial stones:

Artificial stones are usually made up of crushed natural minerals such as marble or quartz, which are mixed with a specific resin. When you are designing with artificial stones then you should get experienced installers. In this way, quality and quantity will be manageable. 

Advantages:

Countertops with these artificial stones are non-porous and do not stain, so they can be easily maintained and cleaned. 

Disadvantages:

Expensive compared to more conventional options. Low resistance to heat and absorption.

4- Porcelain stoneware:

Porcelain kitchen countertops are all the rage and are here to stay. They are relatively strong and their durability and waterproofness are the main advantages.

Porcelain is, without a doubt, one of the materials that offer most of the finishing options, as it is made with the same coating that is specialized for floors and walls and therefore allows for projects with unique combinations. It is also the only option that can be manipulated to resemble other materials such as marble, wood, or concrete, among others.

Advantages:

It is the most usable stone, it can absorb water and is heat resistant. It has the quality of physical and chemical abrasion.

Disadvantages:

When designing with porcelain, it is necessary to partner with specialized companies to ensure impact resistance. Porcelain must also be made with a reinforced structure.

5- Stainless steel:

Stainless steel is an option that provides one of the highest aseptic rates due to its impermeability. It is one of the best materials to use in industrial kitchens due to its resistance to heat and bacteria, and would likely be used more often in residential kitchens as well without the high manufacturing costs.

Advantages:

Very hygienic, practical, and durable.

Disadvantages:

Very expensive and scratches very easily.

6- Concrete:

Wood and concrete are also effective for rustic kitchen finishes, as well as for more contemporary objects. It is a very resistant and economical material. There are many techniques for coloring concrete, which widen the variety of possible finishes to be applied.

Advantages:

Its appearance is versatile and its production is economical, requiring only cement, sand, and water.

Disadvantages:

The need to use specific products to avoid infiltrations. It is very porous and has little resistance to stains. 

8- Wood:

One of the most versatile materials to compose various atmospheres, from rustic to contemporary. The heater provides heat and is very convenient to install. 

Advantages:

Very convenient installation.

Disadvantages:

Low heat resistance and low impact resistance with sharp objects. Strict protection and maintenance are required for effective contact with water.

9- Glass:

If made of tempered glass, the material can be quite safe. It can also be treated with anti-stain and antibacterial solutions. Available options include clear, translucent, textured, and tinted glass which is very beneficial for Kitchen Cabinets.

Advantages:

Stain-resistant. Easy to clean and maintain. It can be combined with virtually all types of finishes.

Disadvantages:

Expensive to manufacture and install.

10- Steatite:

Soapstone is a natural stone - also known as soapstone - commonly used in clinics and laboratories because it is very resistant to acid products.

Advantages:

One of the most durable options.

Disadvantages:

It has lower heat resistance than other natural stones such as granite. Requires constant maintenance, including lubrication and polishing.

Conclusion:

These days, designers have gone above and beyond granite - they'll use just about anything for kitchen and island counters. We can help you navigate the field. Kitchen countertops play a challenging role - as a place for preparing any food, they are expected to be durable, beautiful, and affordable. With all the many options available today, it's no wonder choosing a ceiling material is a daunting decision.