7 Materials For Creating The Perfect Kitchen
Countertop
When choosing the material for your kitchen
counter top there are more things to think about than
just the visual appearance. James tells us about
the various choices, their comparative costs and their
durability.
The kitchen countertop has to be able to take a lot
of abuse including the heat of pots, cutting and knives and
abrasive cleansers. The ideal countertop should be able to
stand up to heat and the sharp edge of a knife.
Let us take a look at 7 of the most popular kitchen
countertop materials being used today:
Granite
A natural stone, granite is a popular
choice for it's classic beauty and durability. Granite is
the hardest and densest of the natural stones. It can create
a kitchen countertop that is extremely scratch resistant and
can keep its luster longer than most materials. Granite
slabs are the most expensive of all kitchen countertop
surfaces, although it is still considered a very practical
material in that it is virtually indestructible.
Marble
Another natural stone, marble, is
considered to be the height of elegance and will last longer
than most kitchens. It is however, is very expensive and
requires some care: acidic foods such as orange juice will
etch the finished surface of a marble kitchen countertop.
Slate
Because of it richness and beauty slate
is usually used in interior applications such as kitchen
countertops, bathroom sinks or fireplace surrounds. It can
be used in either modern or traditional kitchens as well as
in combination with marble. Slate is durable, strong, and
can withstand hard use. It is less expensive than marble.
Concrete
This is one of the biggest trends in
kitchen countertops today. It is a good look for clean,
industrial and contemporary kitchen designs. Available in
pre formed sections or poured and formed on-site. Concrete
is a good material for unusually shaped counters. Concrete
kitchen countertops are expensive, require a sealant and
must be treated with care. The countertop can crack if the
concrete should contract. Concrete can be stained any color.
The most popular color is a natural gray tone. The top layer
can be finished as desired.
Corian
A solid surface material that first
became popular in the 1990's It is highly recommended by
kitchen countertop experts. It is a totally manmade product
and is not porous. As a solid surface it can easily be
repaired if scratched or burned.
Stainless Steel
Advantages include very hygienic, easy to
clean, has ability to stand up to extreme wear and heat.
Stainless steel can provide a great look for an ultra modern
kitchen. Some disadvantages with stainless is that it can be
noisy and that scratches can develop.
Tile
Tile surfaces can be tough, hard-wearing,
take hot pans, heat and stain resistant as well as
beautiful. There are many types of tiles including ceramic,
porcelain, quarry, glass, natural stone and mosaic.
Available in many colors, sizes and textures. It has good
design flexibility. Tile can often be used for trim or
backsplashes. The downside of tile is that thegrouts can be
easily stained. Also the tiles can become chipped or
cracked.
Article
Author - James Mahoney
James Mahoney is the owner of Kitchen
Designers Idea.com. Learn about today's kitchen design ideas
by visiting his site at
Kitchen Designers Ideas.com. If you liked this article
and would want to subscribe to his information packed news
letter visit:
Kitchen Designers Ideas.com
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