Solving The Countertop Conundrum

As the heart of every home, the kitchen is a primary focus for many new homebuyers in Grand Rapids, MI. Counter top selection is an important element in kitchen design both from a visual and a functional standpoint. With the growing number of materials available for countertops, making the right choice can be overwhelming. Heartland Builders breaks down the countertop landscape:

Granite—One of the most durable surfaces, granite can withstand scratches and chipping and is heat resistant for those straight-from-the-oven dishes. Honed granite, which gives a more matte finish, is a popular option. Proper sealing is required regularly, making this option both costly and a bit more maintenance.

Concrete—With endless color staining options, concrete countertops are durable and can be made into any shape. As a material, concrete is relatively inexpensive, but installation and sealing cause the price to rise. Concrete requires resealing over the years and its appearance can change with aging.  Hairline cracks are not uncommon.

Travertine—This delicate yet durable limestone material comes in whites, beiges and golds and is covered in pitted holes that give the appearance of natural wear and tear and beautifully reflect light. Sealers provide some protection but substances—especially acids—can easily stain this surface. Direct or intense heat cannot be withstood so cooling racks or rivets are essential if you chose this for your new home in Grand Rapids.

Stainless Steel—This modern, goes-with-anything look is extremely easy to clean, making it one of the most hygienic options. On the con side, stainless steel nicks and scratches easily and no fingerprint goes unseen.

Laminate—The most cost-effective countertop option, laminates come in the widest range for textures and colors opening the door for endless options. The tradeoff is that it is less durable than other natural stones, which means cuts, scratches and burns show easily.

Wood—Fashion meets function with butcher-block countertops. Great for chopping and cutting as well as supporting high-heat dishes, wood countertops are not only cozy, but can come in a variety of colors and finishes.  On the downside, wood must be regularly oiled to avoid stains and is more susceptible to dents and gouges than hard stone surfaces.

Glass—A unique option that can be customized to any shape or color, glass gives you endless options for creating a custom kitchen in your new home in Grand Rapids. Because glass is non-porous, it is easy to clean and repels bacteria and mold. Unfortunately, glass is also easily scratched and stained and tends to not be the best option for high-traffic kitchens.

Recycled—A growing trend in today’s environmentally friendly world is recycled countertops. Sometimes less expensive, they can be made from everything from glass bottles and wood to ceramic sinks. While unique, recycled countertops can have an uneven surface, making them more prone to chipping or scratching. Regular sealing is also required.