There are several types of kitchen countertops available. Each is suited to other purposes, so make sure you choose the right type for your kitchen. For more information, read on to learn about different styles. But before selecting a material, make sure to read about durability and care.
Granite
Since its release, granite has become one of the most popular materials for kitchen countertops Mequon. This type of stone is made from the cooling of magma inside the earth. Due to its natural composition and unique color variations, it is not easy to duplicate the same slab twice. It is also quite expensive, but it has become more affordable over the past few years. Whether you are considering granite for your kitchen countertops or looking for a more affordable option, you should know about some of its advantages.
Granite countertops are an excellent choice for kitchens and bathroom vanities. It’s heat resistant and highly durable, and the professional installation ensures a seamless transition between the old and new. Its incredible strength and durability make it the perfect stone for any kitchen or bathroom. Thanks to modern technology, this stone has become accessible to homeowners worldwide, and its beauty and versatility allow it to transform any space.
Soapstone
Soapstone is perfect for kitchen countertops. Soapstone is chemically and thermally neutral, so it’s not prone to problem spills. In addition, soapstone makes a good choice for kitchen countertops. Another type of natural stone that is less expensive than granite is soapstone. While not as durable as granite, it still offers a luxurious look. Soapstone comes in different shades of gray or black. This material contrasts beautifully with light-colored cabinets. However, the soapstone surface is easily scratched, so you may want to apply mineral oil to your soapstone countertop to maintain its patina. Unlike granite, soapstone is slightly softer than granite and requires professional installation.
Soapstone is a non-porous natural stone, unlike granite and marble. It’s softer than granite so it will scratch easily. It’s also not wholly scratch-proof, and stains and spills will mark the surface. Still, regular oiling will minimize any imperfections. Unlike granite and marble, soapstone requires minimal maintenance. However, this surface is not scratch-proof.
Sandstone
Sandstone is a beautiful stone with a rustic yet refined grain pattern and texture. This natural stone was formed over millions of years by the pressure of mineral deposits and sediments. Some types of sandstone are polished, while others are left unpolished. Sandstone countertops are highly durable, requiring only a soft cloth to clean them. They can easily withstand heavy use and will last for many years.
Because sandstone is porous, it absorbs liquids and must be adequately sealed to protect against staining. A professional sandstone installer will advise you on the best sealant for your particular countertop, so you can ensure that yours is adequately sealed. Then, hire a professional sandstone contractor to apply the sealant and discuss the sealing process for best results. Ask about the products the contractor uses and about their guarantee.
Limestone
A popular type of stone for kitchen countertops, limestone is an excellent choice for any design scheme. Its porous nature means that it absorbs many liquids, but this is not a big problem if you keep it properly sealed. You will need to seal the stone when it is first installed and reseal it annually. The best way to care for limestone is to seal it professionally and follow a sealing routine.
Although it is easy to maintain limestone countertops, you must make sure you use specific limestone cleaners. They also require more maintenance than other natural stone surfaces. To prevent stains, you’ll need to regularly apply a penetrating sealer to the surface. Then, depending on your needs, you can choose a color that coordinates with your decor. Limestone can also be stained easily.
Quartz
Among the many different types of kitchen countertops, quartz is the most durable and beautiful. It is a natural stone that is very hard and has a wide range of beautiful colors. Often, quartz countertops look like marble or granite but are manufactured in a factory, so there is no need to worry about them chipping or being damaged by spills. It also has an extremely long lifespan, lasting 25 years or more.
Another reason to choose quartz over granite is its natural stain resistance. Unlike granite, quartz is impervious to liquid stains, especially for families with young children. Consumer Reports conducted a test comparing granite and quartz countertops to see which was the most stain-resistant. The tests were done with various liquids, including vegetable oil, coffee, grape and beet juice, food coloring, and coffee. As a result, quartz stayed stain-free for more than two years, proving that quartz is one of the best types of kitchen countertops on the market.