Ten Countertops for Your Kitchen
By Roselyn James
 Whether you're remodeling your kitchen for your own use or to increase your home's value, it's important to consider functionality, budget, and ease of care when choosing new countertops. Here are ten popular choices:
Laminate countertops are made of layers of craft paper soaked in resin. They come in an extensive choice of colors and patterns and can be installed by the homeowner. They are easily scratched, but require only basic maintenance. Price: $10.00 to $50.00 per sq ft.
Wood countertops are heat resistant and give kitchens a warm, rustic feel. Some homeowners install only one and use it as a butcher block. Scratches can easily be sanded out, but the wood needs to be sealed and oiled on a regular basis to keep it from drying. Price: $30.00 to $100.00 per sq. ft.
Solid surface countertops are made from resin, acrylic, and fillers. They come in a variety of patterns and colors and, because they are seamless, they add a smooth look to any kitchen. They require only basic cleaning. Scratches, burns, and stains can be sanded out. Price: $40.00 to $100.00 per sq. ft.
Ceramic tile is easy to clean and comes in a wide range of colors and styles. Because it is installed one tile at a time, most homeowners can do it themselves. The tiles are easy to keep clean, but the grout needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining. Price: $40.00 to $100.00 per sq. ft.
Stainless steel countertops are most often found in restaurants, but are becoming more common in residential homes. |
They are sanitary, heat resistant, and have a clean, industrial look. Regular use can cause dents and scratches, which are difficult to repair. Price: $50.00 to $100.00 per sq. ft.
Soapstone countertops are made from talc, quartz, and various other minerals. They are dark gray, smooth, and heat and stain resistant. They may crack and darken over time, and need to be oiled regularly. Price: $70.00 to $100.00 per sq. ft.
Granite countertops are durable and come in a variety of colors. Because they're made of natural stone, each piece has its own unique and beautiful pattern. Granite withstands heat and if they are sealed once a year and cleaned regularly with a damp cloth, these countertops can last a long time. Price: $50.00 to $200.00 per sq. ft.
Engineered stone countertops are made of crushed quartz and colored pebbles, which are bound together by acrylic or polyester resins. They are stain and heat resistant, do not need to be sealed, and require only basic cleaning. They can also be tinted to create any desired color. Price: $50.00 to $200.00 per sq. ft.
Marble countertops are smooth, cool, and add a look of luxury to any kitchen. They are heat resistant, but are porous and easily stained. Because of this, they need to be periodically sealed. Price: $50.00 to $200.00 per sq. ft.
Concrete countertops can be formed right in the kitchen, so they work well on counters with unusual shapes. They can also be tinted and have stones or other objects imbedded in them. They are heat resistant, but stain easily and need to be sealed on a regular basis. Price: $100.00 and up per sq. ft. |
