How to Choose the Perfect Kitchen Countertops
Deciding which type of countertops to install, whether for new construction or a remodel, is no small undertaking. There are multiple factors to consider, and everyone experiences some sort of anxiety about choosing the perfect countertops. The knowledgeable, resourceful team at TNT is here to help! Below is our comprehensive guide to selecting the perfect kitchen countertops. Have specific questions? Contact us directly!
6 Considerations When Choosing Countertops
1. Use is the most critical aspect of your countertop decision-making. Start this process by thinking about how you and your family use your kitchen during everyday life, as well as for holidays and special events. A growing trend is to mix and match two different materials within the same kitchen, such as a large quartz countertop with a marble top section for bakers to work with dough.
- Does your family spend a lot of time in the space, beyond meals?
- Are food spills and splashes a way of life?
- How durable do your countertops need to be for scratches and heat items?
For those creating rental spaces, consider your typical leaser and their lifestyle.
2. Cleaning methods are something everybody has an opinion on. Regardless of routine preferences, health should be top priority in any household. In kitchens, it is especially important surfaces are free of bacteria at all times, as contamination can cause illness. Diligent cleaners may be less concerned with porous surfaces; those laxer in tidying may see some staining. Reflect on your family’s commitment to regular cleaning.
3. Maintenance is necessary for every type of countertop. Some materials, however, need more upkeep than others. Realistically, are you more of a “once a year sealing” kind of person, or a “twice a year oiling” kind of person? Later on in this post, we’ll go over the needs of the most popular options for countertops.
4. Need will help determine what makes the most sense in the space. Figuring out the amount of countertop linear feet to complete your project is essential. Linear footage is just another way to say length or distance measured in feet. When finding this number, be sure to carefully measure any part of the area which is not standard or completely straight. Maybe more than once!
5. Budget is everyone’s least favorite constraint. It can be a helpful tool to reduce overall options, which can be overwhelming. Ensure budget is one consideration when choosing countertops, but not the only one. Instead of beginning pricing with cost per square foot, decide what overall price you are most comfortable with (and how much over is acceptable), then gather less flexible numbers such as installation costs. After subtracting the less flexible numbers from the overall budget, use the leftover number to get an idea for how much per square foot to spend based on the measurements taken.
Take note that a higher price upfront may cost less overall than lower, but reoccurring expense. Putting in a stone countertop is a one-time cost, while a laminate countertop needing to be replaced several times may top the one-time cost two or three times over.
Remember, some materials have similar appearances as each other but have vastly different price tags. If you find something you really love but it is out of budget, ask your supplier if there is a lower cost dupe. For example, some quartz countertops have the look of more expensive marble.
6. Longevity can vary depending on material, utilization and maintenance. Most kitchen countertops, properly maintained, will last a very long time. With this in mind, and considering budget, pick something which appeals to your aesthetic, and your personal preferences. This decision will be a cornerstone of your daily life for many years, and later when the house may be sold. Long-term value also should take into account that paint, appliance, and accessories can change over time.
Kitchen Countertop Materials
The most popular countertops materials are stone based. Below is information about some of these types and their features. Keep in mind that TNT Countertops has constantly revolving stock – follow us on social media and visit our facility to see our beautiful slabs on display!
Quartz – non-porous surface which resists stains and requires minimal maintenance. Clean with mild soap and water or a quartz-specific cleaner. Sealing is not required.
Granite – durable and beautiful, available in a wide range of colors. Clean with mild soap and water or a granite-specific cleaner. Seal every 1-3 years, depending on usage and porosity.
Marble – a classic selection hardy against markings. Clean with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner or warm water with a soft cloth. Seal every 6-12 months.
Other Stone – timeless choices both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Talk with our team to learn more about cleaning and sealing for each variation.
The Most Important Advice for Choosing Countertops
Kitchen countertops are a key part of any home. Taking the time to consider all the options and ask all the questions will lead to the best choice, but choosing the wrong installation company can negate all your work. This most commonly heard advice, from real life and the internet? Find a local company to hand select materials from and to do the work. Horror stories are everywhere from those who went with big box chain stores and DIY suppliers. Don’t let your time or money go to waste! Make an appointment with TNT Countertops today and we’ll help you every step of the way to design your space most affordably and effectively.
