Are you thinking of renovating your kitchen, your bathroom, or maybe even both? Here’s some great info on countertop materials to help you narrow down your choices and make the right decisions for terrific looks and practicality that work in either of those all-important rooms.
Popular Countertops for Kitchens and Bathrooms
1. Quartz – Quartz has become one of the most popular materials for making countertops because it can stand up to the wear and tear of food preparation, along with its associated spills and variations in temperature. It works equally well in the bathroom, as it can tolerate a reasonable amount of scrubbing.
Quartz countertops are synthetic, made of 90-95% ground quartz and a 5-10% combination of polymers, resins and pigments. This combination forms a sturdy, almost granite-like surface. It’s customizable, too, and you can get a smooth or flecked-looking countertop, according to your preference.
2. Granite – Sure, granite isn’t exactly new, but it continues to be used for many contemporary kitchen countertops because it’s such a timeless material. No longer just a trend, granite is a long-lasting keeper! Handsome and durable, its hard surface comes in various color palettes and design patterns. Aside from great aesthetics, granite is resistant to heat, stains and scratches. Bathroom countertops featuring granite are modern-looking and dramatic.
Granite has 20% quartz and some feldspar and mica. Design tip: To get that ultra-contemporary look, pair a black granite countertop with white cabinets. Both the countertop and cabinetry stand out equally and really complement one another.
3. Corian by DuPont – About 30 years ago, DuPont found a way to synthesize a mix of natural minerals with acrylic resin to create an ideal countertop material. Today, Corian produces magnificent countertops that are smooth and practically indestructible.
Both kitchen countertops and bathroom countertops made from Corian by DuPont are resistant to bacteria growth because the material is 100% solid, so there are no fissures where mold can grow. It doesn’t peel, crack or come apart with heavy use. Any damage can easily be repaired through light sanding or scrubbing.
4. Concrete – Last, but certainly not least, is concrete. Of all the materials listed here, concrete is the one that doesn’t make use of natural minerals. And that means that in addition to being supremely practical, customizable and terrific looking, concrete for kitchen and bathroom countertops is eco-friendly. And guess what? It can even be made to look like quartz, granite or Corian!
Remember, these days there are no clear-cut rules or restrictions about countertop materials for use in only one kind of room. Kitchen and bathroom alike, if it’s functional and suits your personal taste, just go for it!
Greg Nelson
Greg Nelson is the owner of Nelson Construction & Renovations Inc. He is a Florida State Certified Building Contractor, creating artistry in all areas of design and construction projects. He is a musician, and artist. A husband and father, Greg appreciates all the wonderful elements of family life.
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