The hub of the house, the kitchen is where we try out new meals, dish out comfort foods, and chop of delicious ingredients for family dinners. Of course, before you serve your favorite dishes, you need to have something to serve them on! Since they are the main source of action, kitchen counters
are often the heart of the kitchen. That is why picking the right material for countertops is crucial. While there are so many options to choose from, we explore the pros and cons of the most popular countertop materials, including granite, butcherblock, and laminate.
Granite
Picking the right materials for countertops often includes looking at the pros and cons of each option. Offering strength, beauty, and custom cuts, it is no wonder that granite is a beloved kitchen countertop material. In fact, Granite countertops are one of the most durable materials that you can use within your kitchen. This means it stands up well against daily wear and tear. It is also scratch resistant and easy to clean should there be any spills. On the flip side, the most common issue with granite is improper sealing. If not properly sealed or if sealing maintenance is not followed, granite countertops will become porous and absorb wine, juice, oil, and other liquids that can be nearly impossible to remove. Averaging at
$40 to $100 per square foot, granite countertops can cost a pretty penny depending on how many countertops your kitchen has. This is important to consider if you are on a tight budget.
Butcherblock
There is something calming about a kitchen that uses natural materials. When it comes to picking the right materials for countertops, some homes want to opt for a unique, inviting material. Averaging at $40 to $100 per square foot, butcherblock is an eco-friendly countertop material that adds warmth and character to any kitchen. It can also be made easily water resistant by applying
mineral oil beeswax. While butcherblock is a gorgeous addition to any kitchen and can last many years with proper care, it is best for kitchens that do not see a lot of intense cooking. This is because butcherblock can easily be stained, nicked, and scorched. However, if you are set on butcherblock, we recommend adding a sturdy cutting board to the mix to keep your butcherblock countertops safe and looking great throughout the years.
Laminate
Last but not least, another option to explore when picking the right materials for countertops is laminate. Stylish and inexpensive, laminate is a great choice for those who wish to stick to a strict budget. This durable material is both
stain and heat resistant, which means you can spill without worry and place dishes on the countertop without worry of heat damage. There are also many design options to choose from when it comes to laminate. However, we strongly recommend against cutting directly on laminate materials, as this can leave noticeable scratches. On top of that, laminate often displays a shorter lifespan and can be difficult to repair. If your countertops take a frequent beating, laminate may not be the right choice. However, for light cookers, laminate will work perfectly.
Conclusion
To learn more about picking the right materials for countertops, be sure to contact or visit us today at
Anderson & Rodgers Construction. We are located in both Lexington, Kentucky, and Cincinnati, Ohio, and proudly serve greater Lexington, Cincinnati, and Central Kentucky areas including Versailles, Georgetown, Richmond, Winchester.