Countertops are a defining feature in a kitchen or bathroom. The options available for worktop surfaces are so varied it is possible to get any look you want. Let’s look at the countertops options available from least expensive to most expensive, and discuss the advantages and drawbacks of each.

Least to Most Expensive Options

• Laminate countertop material is the cheapest option, is easy to find, offers a variety of colors but is least durable.
• Ceramic or stone tile is relatively inexpensive, moderately durable, difficult to clean and maintain.
• Butcher Block has a warm, natural look, durable but somewhat labor intensive to maintain, susceptible to moisture damage.
• Solid surface, originally marketed under Corian, looks artificial, wide range of colors, easy to clean, durable but prone to damage.
• Granite is usually the least expensive natural stone material, offers a variety of patterns and natural color variations, exceptionally durable and resistant to damage, easy to clean and maintain.
• Marble is susceptible to stains, even when sealed. Stays cool and is good for working dough, so a favorite of bakers. It gives a beautiful classic look, durable but troublesome to maintain for heavy use.
• Quartz is the best combination of engineered and natural stone surface. It is crafted of quartz chips and resin, looks man-made but offers a variety of colors, and very durable and easy to maintain.
• Soapstone offers a unique natural stone look which is enhanced with age. It is susceptible to scratching, cuts and the rougher surface can be problematic. It must be oiled to maintain its durability so maintenance can be an issue.
• Concrete is a custom creation so one of the most expensive options, highly versatile, excellent durability, the heavy weight requires some planning and careful placement.
• Stainless steel is also custom made and is the most expensive option, it has become a favorite of designers and chefs for its sleek modern look, ease of cleaning and maintenance, and longevity.

Countertop in your kitchen

Your kitchen counter is literally the workhorse of the kitchen. Even on the days you do not do any cooking, you probably use your counter. It is where you plop down mail of the day. It is where you stand while you are waiting for the coffee to brew. It is where you unpack groceries. How do I know that? Because I do the same thing. So, I exaclty know how important it is to take care of my countertop. I want it to look the best all the time. And I know that you want the same thing when it come to your countertop.

How to clean your kitchen counter?

When it comes to cleaning your kitchen counters, one method does not fit all. It depends on the material from which your countertop is made of. I want to help you discover how to clean countertops and keep them in top shape. Here are some thing that may help you:

1. Granite countertop
   Acidic cleaning products and anything vinegar-based can damage granite, so only use warm water, a conservative amount of soap and a wet sponge or soft cloth to clean the surface.

2. Wood countertop
   Wood is easily damaged, so try to wipe up all spills quickly to prevent stains and keep countertops as dry as possible. To get rid of odors that are absorbed by wooden countertops, rub the surface with a slice of lemon and remove stains with a solution of 1/4 cup chlorine bleach in 1 quart warm water. Rinse, dry and coat with oil.

3. Stainless steel countertop
   To keep stainless steel clean, regularly wash the surface with warm water and a small amount of baking soda. Always thoroughly dry your countertops after cleaning to prevent water spots.

4. Concrete countertop
   To clean concrete surfaces, use a mixture of vinegar and water, and always avoid abrasive soaps and cleaning solutions containing harsh chemicals.

5. Marble countertop
   Treat marble with a special stone sealer to reduce its porosity, and wipe up wine, fruit juice and other acidic food spills immediately to prevent permanent surface etching.

Introduction to quartz countertops

If you are remodeling your kitchen you have most likely encountered the problem of choosing the right counter material. You want to look for something that will be durable for many years to come and will satisfy all your needs. In such case you might want to consider quartz countertops, also called engineered stone. They are becoming more and more popular over the past decades and create a great alternative to other popular solutions such as granite and marble countertops.

It should not come as a surprise considering their combination of durability and flexibility, making them just as strong as other materials with the benefit of an easier installation process. They are non-porous, meaning there no holes and cracks for liquids to soak in. That is why they never require any sealing and always come with a few-year warranty.

Combining practicality with beauty

Even though they are heavier than granite they do not have the hardness in the feeling that some people might find unpleasant. Being non-porous, they are the best stain-resistant material you can choose, resisting even wine and oil. Even if you do spill something on the counter you will soon find how easy it is to clean its’ surface. Cleaning is also the only maintenance you will ever need to provide.

Moreover, it is much harder for germs to get lodged into the counter and therefore your food will be much safer than on other surfaces. When it comes to looks, the only limit is your imagination. Being man-made and manufactured, it can come in all sorts of styles and colors, making it a versatile material. The look and feel are also guaranteed to be uniform throughout the whole surface. But don’t just take our words for granted – visit our gallery and see for yourself.

Quartz – great countertop material

Quartz is one of the most beautiful and durable materials for your home design. It is often used in kitchens and bathrooms. Quartz is quarried from mines and then cleaned before being distributed for a variety of uses just like other stones. But, if you are taking under consideration different stones and laminate materials for your countertop, the quartz combine stylish look with a lasting finish. That is what everybody wants right ?  Well, quartz countertops are absolutely stunning but they are not cheap. When it comes to getting an estimate or price quote for a quartz counter it can be extremely confusing. One distributor will offer you a price that includes the installation while another keeps it separate. So, if you are planning to install your new quartz countertops you need to think if it will fit into your budget.

How much the quartz countertop cost?

The price of quartz countertop is different depending on many things. When you are buying the quartz countertop itself it can cost from $50 to $100 per feet depending on the quality of it. On average, people are paying $75 per square foot. Another thing is when a distributor offer you a price that includes installation. The cost of installation vary from $150 to $280 per square foot.  The price fluctuating based on the number of slabs of quartz and any additional finishes. You will find out by yourself that the cost increases when you want to add detailed edging fabrications or request extra fixture cutouts. There are a couple of steps that may factor into the cost of installing a quartz countertop for example : leveling, fabrication or seam jointing. Estimating the cost of installation for a quartz countertop comes down to knowing the price per square foot. The average countertop that measures about 25 square feet will cost between $1,200 and $2,700 after purchasing the quartz and paying installation fees. So, you see that this is not a cheap project. Think twice before you decide.