Kitchen

Kitchen cabinets, check! New kitchen floor, check! Appliances, check! Your dream kitchen is almost complete but you’re missing one important thing… your countertops. You’re having a hard time deciding which countertop would work best in your kitchen. There are many so many options to choose from! Today, let’s talk about three of the most popular countertops: granite, quartz and laminate.

All three types of countertops are options for kitchen or bathroom. And they really change the whole look depending on what color you choose. But like most everything, these countertops have their pros & cons.

Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are a widely popular choice. The material is extremely durable and it’s considered a natural material. Unlike quartz, it is resistant to heat. That is a big selling point for some homeowners because it allows them to place hot pots or pans directly on the countertop surface. (Note: We always recommend using a trivet or potholders for hot pots.) There’s less worry about the material getting damaged. That alone makes homeowners more eager to buy granite over quartz. However, it does require more maintenance than quartz. Granite needs to be sealed once it is insulated. And care is also highly recommended on a regular basis. Granite also stains easier than quartz and it is possible for scratches or cracks over time.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz is not a natural countertop material. This is due to the process in which quartz is made. So, quartz is considered man-made. This makes quartz not “environmentally friendly.” Granite countertops produce fewer carbon emissions while it’s being made. Many people say quartz is the superior option for countertops because it requires far less maintenance. Quartz is stain resistant and will never have to be sealed. Since it can’t be easily scratched or cracked, it is considered more durable than granite.

Laminate Countertops

Laminate countertops are hands down your less expensive option. People are shocked when we tell them the prices for our laminate in the store. A twelve foot piece starts at around $115.00! That’s a great price for a laminate countertop. Now, obviously people are very interested when they hear a low price, but be careful! You get what you pay for when it comes to laminate. Since it’s less expensive, it sometimes looks cheaper. You may not realize it, but your countertop may be one thing which hurts you when trying to sell your home. Laminate offers many options to choose from in terms of color and style, however it can be easily damaged and hard to repair. Consider laminate as a great alternative for a second bathroom or a basement kitchen.

While both granite and quartz are more expensive, one great thing about both of them is their versatility. And there are so many style options. Obviously, granite will look more natural because it is stone, but people do love what they can do with quartz. Granite ranges in price depending on the cut you want. Quartz is definitely the most expensive of the group and always a beautiful choice. But all three options should be taken into consideration. Countertops are an important part to any remodel and a little research makes your selection easier!