Remodeling or renovating your kitchen can be overwhelming when it comes to the sheer amount of choice you’re given. From floor to ceiling, you need to make dozens of smart choices to get the exact look you want, and you’d be forgiven for finding it all exhausting. When it comes to your countertops, the centerpiece of your whole kitchen, this is especially true, but we’re here to help.
We’ve put together a short guide to help you pick out the best countertops for you, so you can finally put the question of “What is the best kitchen countertop for me?” to bed for good.
Wood (Butcher Block) Countertops
The classic, timeless look of wood is a forever favorite of the interior decorating scene. Wood’s refined yet natural look has the pride of many homeowners for centuries, and it’s not hard to see why.
In 2022, wood is still seen as classy yet remain relatively affordable. On the more affordable end, with woods like oak and cedar, wood can serve to tie your whole kitchen together without breaking the bank. Yet higher end woods, like the redwood and pine, can offer up a look of elegance that few other materials can.
For those who want something sleek, polished wood that compliments your kitchen’s color scheme can make for a striking look, or for the more practical-minded person, a more untreated wood can offer a rustic, all-natural look that can even double as a cutting board, more commonly called a butcher block. And with wood’s natural heat resistance, you won’t have to fear accidentally placing a hot pot or pan directly on your countertop.
The sheer variety of wood available means there’s a wood countertop for everyone, from budget remodelers to high-end home builders. Not to mention its huge style potential, which can suit and compliment nearly any kitchen setup. Consider wood if you’re after a timeless look and feel, be it homey or elegant, that doubles as a practical, durable surface.
Laminate Countertops
An inexpensive yet presentable option, laminate is one of the most budget-friendly options out there. With its synthetic, engineered nature, it’s easy and quick to install while remaining very budget friendly in comparison to other countertop options.
A unique quirk of laminate is its customizability. Laminate can be tooled to resemble other types of countertops for a mere fraction of the price of the real thing, putting dreams of a semi-precious stone countertop within reach of thousands who would otherwise never be able to afford it. Laminate is also quite easy to clean and maintain.
However, that same synthetic nature means its susceptible to heat and water damage, and eventual deterioration. If you’re thinking of a laminate countertop, keep the layout of your kitchen in mind so as to minimize the risk/need of putting hot pots and pans anywhere other than your range.
Laminate countertops may be right for you if your budget is a smaller one, or the make of your countertops is taking a lower priority to the other aspects of your new kitchen.
Granite Countertops
An unmistakable look, granite countertops are famous for their luxurious look and feel and trademark pattern. Equal parts sturdy and sleek, granite has been a popular, albeit high-end choice for designers and remodelers for the better part of a century, and will continue to be for years to come.
For kitchen projects, granite is a statement-making material, letting its striking appearance speak for itself. While expensive to install, granite countertops also up a home’s resale value, given how desirable granite countertops are. It’s natural toughness means it’s also scratch- and heat-resistant, meaning a flawless look for years, if not decades after installation. To those who make the investment, granite countertops are sure to make for long-lasting and dependable ones.
You may consider granite countertops if you have a high budget, and love to impress and entertain in your kitchen and living space. While thinner granite countertops are available in the case of relatively smaller, albeit still substantial budgets, those on a tight budget will likely want to look elsewhere for a countertop.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz’s famous pearly-white appearance is instantly recognizable and always a pleasure to dine and cook on. Quartz provides an air of sleekness while remaining unique, and uniquely beautiful at that – few other commercially-available stones have the color and reputation of quartz.
While a striking stone, quartz is actually more affordable than you may think. Cheaper than the aforementioned granite, it is considered a mid-priced stone, making it feasible for a greater number of projects. It is also remarkably hard, giving it one of the carpentry world’s best scratch resistance. Its non-porous nature makes it more durable and stain-resistant, while also eliminating the need for countertop sealing.
Consider quartz countertops if you want a luxurious feel, without paying luxurious prices. Quartz’s famous toughness and elegant look will be a staple of your home for many, many years to come if you choose to make it yours.
Need help with your next kitchen construction or remodel?
We’re here to help with that, too. Get in touch with the experts at Jordan’s Lumber to ask about the best countertop options for you, or to get a free quote on your next project.
