Many people understandably focus a lot of time and attention on kitchen décor, and choosing the right kitchen countertops can be overwhelming. The following list of seven countertops represents some familiar and unusual choices, along with pros and cons associated with each type of countertop.
Natural Stone
Natural stone surfaces such as granite, soapstone, and limestone are durable and never look dated. However, natural stone is expensive, and must be treated to stand up to the demands of food prep.
Marble
Marble is beautiful and elegant, lending a high-end look to any kitchen. However, marble is brittle and prone to cracking. Marble must also be sealed regularly to prevent staining or scratching.
Cultured Stone
Cultured stone blends quartz and pigments to give the look of natural stone. Cultured stone is nearly maintenance free and easy to clean. However, it is almost as expensive as natural stone.
Eco-Friendly Countertops
Materials like bamboo, recycled glass, and paper composites are beautiful and eco-friendly. However, eco-friendly countertops can be difficult to find (or replace) and subject to damage from everyday use.
Wood
Butcher block countertops add rustic charm to your kitchen. Wood is durable but also porous. Wood countertops must be treated and sealed to be suitable for food prep.
Metal
Stainless steel countertops give kitchens a modern, industrial vibe and coordinate well with stainless steel appliances. Copper and pewter are other popular choices. Metal countertops are antibacterial and stain resistant. However, if scratches bother you, then metal countertops are not for you.
Concrete
Concrete is durable and looks great alongside natural materials such as wood. Concrete is heat and stain resistant, but also heavy and requires regular sealing to prevent food stains and damage from liquids.
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