Countertops are one of the most important components of your kitchen. They will be used daily, and they can make your life easier or more difficult, in addition to their aesthetic value. If you are trying to determine the best countertops for you, Peter Grenier New Hampshire has some advice.

Stone

Peter Grenier New Hampshire states that stone countertops include granite, quartz, soapstone, marble, and limestone. They have a lot of similarities, but there are some key differences.

Granite Countertops

Granite is often the top choice for countertops. It’s beautiful and comes in a seemingly endless variety of colors and patterns. It’s available in two finishes. A polished finish gives a shiny smooth surface. It typically darkens the stone somewhat. Honing gives a soft matte finish and a more natural look than polishing.

One of the pluses of granite is heat and cut resistance. You can pull a pan right off the stove and place it on your granite countertop. However, if you place it in the same spot over a period of time, it can cause discoloration. Granite is also resistant to scratches. You can use it as a cutting board, although it will dull your knife.

Stone Countertop Care

According to Peter Grenier New Hampshire, nearly all stone countertops require sealing. They should be sealed from the manufacturer, but you’ll have to reseal periodically. To know when to reseal, put a few drops of water on the countertop. If the water soaks into the stone quickly, it’s time to reseal.

Limestone, soapstone, and marble are softer than granite, so they are more easily damaged. If you need a durable countertop, they aren’t the best choice.

Quartz

Quartz is harder than granite and extremely durable. It doesn’t require sealing, because it isn’t porous like granite. The downside is that it’s not as heat resistant as granite, so you should use a trivet when pulling pans from the stove or oven.

Solid Surface Countertops

Solid surface countertops can be made to look like stone, wood, and glass. They are made from acrylic or polymer. They create a nonporous surface, so you don’t have to worry about germs or water affecting your counters.

They create a smooth sleek surface that makes them great for contemporary kitchens. They are typically less expensive than granite. Scratches can easily be buffed out or lightly sanded to remove them.

Concrete Countertops

Concrete countertops are becoming more popular. They can be nearly any color and design. However, they do require more frequent sealing and waxing to protect the porous surface.

Laminate

Laminate countertops are the least expensive option. Today’s laminate is not as prone to scratches due to advances in materials and production. It is not heat resistant, so take care with any hot pans.

Peter Grenier New Hampshire

Peter Grenier New Hampshire is the owner of Wicked Wood Works. He’s run the cabinet and remodeling company for 10 years. Previous experience includes building new construction homes and many remodeling projects.

Gregory Peacock