When you’re considering updating your kitchen or bathroom, one of the most exciting choices you’ll face is selecting the perfect countertops! After all, you’ll want something that looks great and performs even better. This article will tell you everything you need to know about selecting your new countertops!
FAQs: What You Should Know Before Getting New Countertops
1. What are the most common types of countertops?
- Quartz: When it comes to durability and ease of upkeep, quartz is a common go-to.
- Granite: This beautiful natural stone has seemingly endless variations, meaning every countertop looks one-of-a-kind.
- Marble: Often chosen in luxury settings to add elegance to a space.
- Quartzite: Nature’s most durable and beautiful natural stone with it’s incredible hardness and the texture and “Look” of marble, it’s become a favorite in the natural stone arena.
- Porcelain: Porcelain is a popular choice for bustling kitchens since it’s highly resistant to heat and stains and comes in a myriad of colors and patterns.
- Dekton: This “sintered” porcelain product is incredibly hard and perfect for high use or exterior applications.
2. What factors should I consider when choosing a countertop?
- Durability: Think about how much activity your countertops will face! If your kitchen is going to be a busy center, you might want to lean towards durable materials like quartz , granite or Quartzite.
- Maintenance: Certain materials, such as marble countertops, need a bit more care than others. Consider how much time you’re happy to dedicate to upkeep!
- Aesthetics: Your countertop should really enhance the overall feel of your kitchen or bathroom instead of sticking out like a sore thumb! When choosing, think about how the color, pattern, and finish will all come together beautifully.
- Budget: Every material has its own price tag, so it’s a good idea to set a budget before you start shopping. This way, you can explore all the options that fit comfortably within your range! We’ll be happy to walk you through the materials that fit your plan.
3. What’s the Countertop Installation Process like?
It’s helpful to know what to expect around stone installation so that you can plan accordingly. The installation process usually starts with measuring your space, followed by cutting the stone to the perfect size, and then securely putting it all together. A reputable stone installer will make sure it’s done efficiently, lessening the chances of cracks, uneven installation, or other problems that would lead to costly repairs down the road.
4. Decide on the Countertop Edge
Before we dive into installation, there’s one more thing to consider: After you’ve chosen between granite, quartzite, porcelain, quartz, or marble, it’s time to think about the countertop edge style that catches your eye! This is often something first-time buyers overlook, but it can really add a nice touch. These days, square edges are quite popular, while decorative options like ogee, bevel, and bullnose tend to come at a higher price point.
Quartz Vs. Granite Countertops
Many of our customers come to us having trouble deciding between these two popular countertop types. When you’re choosing between granite and quartz countertops, think about both how they look and how they work for your lifestyle!
Quartz countertops are made from natural quartz crystals mixed with resins, creating a smooth, non-porous surface that holds up beautifully against stains and scratches. This makes quartz a fantastic option for bustling kitchens, as it requires very little upkeep and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns to match any style.
On the flip side, granite countertops can dazzle with one-of-a-kind patterns that are hard to resist. They’re heat resistant and incredibly durable, but remember they do need a little extra love with periodic sealing to keep them looking their best.
Both materials are top performers, so your decision will be all about which look you prefer and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with for your new countertops!
Countertops From Your Trusted New Mexico Stone Supplier
Selecting the perfect countertop can be an exciting decision when it comes to home renovation. Any of our natural stone slabs can enhance the look of your space–all that’s up to you is decide which style you like the best! As you take a look at the different types of countertops, remember to think about factors like durability, maintenance, and budget.
Whether you’re curious about the differences between quartz and granite countertops or need some tips on how to keep your countertops looking fresh, our Rocky Mountain Stone team is ready to help you find the perfect option. Contact us today and we’ll be glad to get your project started!