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Countertops
13 Jun

How to Choose Countertops

Today, kitchen countertops take center stage in the home. It’s not only a statement piece, but a real workhorse, and the right countertop is a significant investment that can increase the value and appreciation of your home. Selecting the best countertop for your kitchen remodel depends on your overall design, as well as what functionality you would like as a homeowner.

However, given the variety of choices available today, finding the perfect countertop can be a daunting process. But no worries, you’re not alone. With the help of experienced kitchen countertop installers figuring out your needs and priorities will be easy. Read on to learn more!

Why your kitchen countertops matter

From seamless solid surface to glistening Quartz, variegated granites, and artful laminates — kitchen countertops add beauty, functionality, and personality to your home. Consider the countertop as a reflection of your personal style, including culinary and entertaining preferences.

Whether you are planning a total makeover or simply refreshing your space in DFW and surrounding areas with a new countertop, we’ve put together this quick guide on the best countertop materials to help homeowners, like you, on your remodeling journey.

 

Certified Granite

 

Granite is a natural stone material, found deep underground, that is prized for its unique earth-originated patterns that ebb and flow in perfect harmony with the surrounding environment. If you’re looking for the finest countertop colors, there’s a Granite certified by Murad Floors, quarried from small mines in Italy, Brazil, India and in the U.S.A, powered by a limited lifetime warranty. Remember, however, that granite is literally removed from the earth, therefore you will not be able to achieve the consistency of pattern and color as with man-made options.

PROS

  • Heat resistant
  • Low maintenance
  • Scratch resistant
  • Resistant to chemicals and stains – this is true when granite is properly sealed by a professional

CONS

  • Porous material – if not sealed properly, or if sealant wears off, granite can absorb stains that are impossible to remove
  • Chipping/cracking – this is a rare occurrence, but still possible if a heavy object is dropped on a corner or edge
  • Cost – depending on the rareness or “level” of the design, cost can be high

 

Laminates 

Laminate made of layers of paper or fabric impregnated with resin over composition wood, laminates come in a variety of patterns and colors. Best for areas of heavy use but minimal abuse. Laminates can show seams, but some have decorative edges to hide that. Another option: post-forming, a process using heat to form and bend laminate sheets, making them look seamless. Whether on a budget or just looking for more creative solutions for your countertop surface, cost-effective options. Laminates today are affordable, long-lasting, and easy to maintain. Plus, they are available in a plethora of colors and designs, including wood and stone finishes. 

PROS

  • Easy to clean and a good choice for a tight budget
  • Laminates excel at resisting stains, impact, and heat
  • Withstand abrasive pads nicely. Inexpensive

CONS

  • Laminate is easily scratched and nicked and can’t be repaired. Textured finishes are better than flat finishes at hiding imperfections
  • Most laminates have a colored top layer over a dark core, which shows at the edges
  • Water can seep through seams or between the countertop and backsplash, weakening the material

 

Marble

When it comes to marble, style comes easy! It is elegant, shiny, and has a timeless element to it that appears effortlessly beautiful. But be careful – marble is softer and more porous than other stones, making it more susceptible to damages such as chipping, staining and scratching.

PROS

  • Availability – because of its high demand, marble can be found at almost any stone fabricator
  • Beauty – classic & timeless
  • Smooth surface

CONS

  • Prone to scratching/chipping
  • Susceptible to stains
  • Higher maintenance – in order to prevent damages and stains from occurring, it is important to professionally seal the surface every six months and clean spills/messes immediately

Cultured Marble

Cultured marble is a fun twist to the regular, natural marble. It is made up of a blend of marble dust and polyester resin to produce a wide range of color and natural looking patterns. Because it is a man-made product, cultured marble is non-porous and thus does not require sealant. The molds are lined with a special, clear gel that creates a transparent finished surface.

PROS

  • Affordable
  • Customizable
  • Durable
  • Low maintenance

CONS

  • Difficult to remove scratches
  • Prone to stains

 

Soapstone

Soapstone is the common name for the naturally occurring stone known as steatite, a magnesium-rich metamorphic rock containing a high percentage of talcum or talc—the same substance that’s pulverized to make baby powder.

Buyers of soapstone countertops need to know a bit of soapstone’s geology before installing them. While some materials were designed and engineered for the express purpose of making kitchen and bathroom countertops, soapstone certainly wasn’t. It’s a natural stone that, like marble and granite, happens to have found a spot in residential remodeling and construction.

Soft Soapstone

Softer varieties of soapstone, often called artistic soapstone, actually have a silky, soapy feel to them, and may contain as much as 80 percent talc. Because soapstone is used for carving, many people wrongly imagine that the stone is far too soft for a countertop.

Architectural Grade Soapstone 

The type of soapstone used in fireplaces and countertops is architectural soapstone. Since this architectural or construction-grade soapstone is closer to only 50 percent talc, it is quite hard and perfectly suitable for being cut into slabs.

Soapstone slabs are usually in creamy shades ranging from nearly white to dark gray, with subtle or considerable veining. It can appear less dramatic than most types of granite, but many people prefer its subtle beauty to the loud exuberance of granite.

PROS                                                                                                                                     CONS                                    

  • Develops patina over time                                                                           Difficult to find large slabs
  • Do not burn or scorch                                                                                   Expensive  
  • Nearly impervious to staining                                                                    Limited colors
  • Scratches can be sanded out                                                                      Needs oiling                       
  • Sealing not required                                                                                     Scratch easily                                                                                                                         

 

Quartzite

Quartzite is arguably the strongest natural stone option for your countertop; in fact, it is sturdier than marble and granite. It has the same beautiful essence that marble portrays but can withstand a little more abuse. It is a great solution for an outdoor kitchen because it is resistant to UV rays, but be careful, as quartzite is more prone to scratching.

 

PROS

  • Durable
  • Low maintenance
  • UV resistant – no need to worry about fading if placed outdoors

 CONS

  • Damage from heat – use trivets for hot pots and pans
  • Limited color options – due to its naturality, quartzite contains more neutral colors and less variety of color
  • Scratching – we recommend using a cutting board
  • Sealing – make sure it is installed and sealed professionally on a regular basis to prevent future damages

 

Quartz

  • Different from quartzite, quartz is a non-porous stone that is durable, resistant to many damages, and is very easy to maintain. Because it is a manufactured product, quartz offers a wide range of hues, several finish options, and its final appearance is rich and luxurious.

PROS

  • Does not harbor bacteria
  • Non-porous – there is no need for a sealant
  • Scratch, chip & crack resistant
  • Stain resistant
  • Very durable
  • Wide range of designs and colors

CONS

  • Price
  • Receptive to heat
  • Should not be used outside

 

Solid Surface

Solid surface countertops are a man-made material composed of polyester resins, pigments or other elements that do not require seam installations. It is a highly flexible material, comes in a variety of color options, and integrates smoothly with sinks and backsplash.

PROS

  • Ability to sand away stains or scratches
  • Durable
  • Seamless
  • Smooth surface
  • Wide range of colors & patterns

CONS

  • Can scratch and dent
  • Possibility of stains
  • Receptive to heat

 

Ultra Compact 

Ultra compact surfaces are made from raw materials found in glass, porcelain, and quartz, which are then put under extreme heat and pressure to create an almost indestructible material. These countertops are one of the most durable options on the market today!

PROS

  • Durable
  • Heat resistant
  • Scratch, chip, and crack resistant
  • UV resistant – perfect for outdoor use

CONS

  • Limited fabricators and installers – because proper install requires certification, it may be more difficult to find a reliable pro who can do a beautiful job

 

 

Concrete Countertops

Few kitchen countertop materials are more misunderstood than high-end concrete. Rock-solid and hard as granite or slate, concrete can be a better fit in contemporary kitchen designs than engineered or natural stones since it exudes a modern industrial aesthetic.

Adding to the mystique is the fact that concrete can be etched, acid-stained, stamped, and sealed to create a countertop surface that is unlike almost any other available material. Modern concrete kitchen countertops are no longer cold impersonal slabs of gray concrete. More often, they are warm and gleaming surfaces that are functional and also remarkably stylish.

Yet concrete does have some significant downsides that make this a product you’ll want to consider carefully before you make the purchase.

As part of the installation, the crew may build or install support frames for sinks, since it is important that the countertop itself not carry the weight of the sink. If the sink is an under-mount style, it is set in place first, then the countertop is installed over it. The countertop is usually adhered to the cabinets with construction adhesives after being carefully leveled and shimmed.

 

PROS

  • Can improve resale value since it is considered to be a premium surface
  • Can be custom-sized and shaped
  • Difficult to scratch and impervious to heat
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Small items can be embedded

CONS

  • Expensive, costing as much as $135 or more per square foot
  • Its excessive weight can tax cabinet frames and floors
  • Regular sealing is required to avoid staining
  • Repairs are difficult for the do-it-yourselfer

 

Types of Countertop Edges

Not all countertop edges are made the same. Some are simpler with only minor details while others are more “flamboyant” and have levels of detail. We categorize these as standard/traditional edges and premium edges. Look through the list below to find out what countertop edge designs are for your next remodeling project.

 

  STANDARD EDGES

1- BEVELED EDGE

2- BULLNOSE EDGE

3- DEMI- BULLNOSE EDGE

4- EASED EDGE

5-MITERED EDGE 

6- QUIRKED EDGE

7- SQUARED EDGE

8- STRAIGHT EDGE

                                                                                          PREMIUM EDGES

1- CHISELED EDGE

2- COVED EDGE

3- DOUBLED BEVELED EDGE

4- DOUBLED OGEE EDGE

5-MDOUBLED QUARTER ROUND EDGE

6- HALF BEVELED EDGE

7- OGEE EDGE

8- QUARTER ROUND EDGE

9- STEPPED EDGE

10- TRIPLE PENCIL EDGE 

Things to Consider

When choosing between countertop edge styles, you’ll want to consider the material of your countertops, the size and style of your kitchen and your price range.

 

  • Certain countertop materials may not be able to accommodate all edge styles. Quartz countertop edge profiles are usually the most diverse, since quartz is durable and can handle even the most intricate edge designs. Laminate countertop edge options tend to be more limited. Ask your countertop manufacturer which types of countertop edges are possible for your counter material.
  • If you have a large, spacious kitchen, most countertop edges will look at home. However, if you have a smaller kitchen, or a kitchen with tight corners, you may want to choose a subtle edge profile. You should be able to move around counter corners without bumping into them.
  • Ornate countertop edges such as ogee edges fit in with traditional style kitchens, while simpler edges like square or beveled edges better suit contemporary kitchens. While there are no hard and fast rules about which edge is best for which style, it’s important to consider the overall look of your kitchen.
  • Naturally, a very detailed countertop edge usually costs more than a simple edge. As with any purchase, keep your budget in mind.
  • Countertop edges for laminate counters are a separate piece attached with adhesive. You may not have to replace all your countertops to drastically change your kitchen’s appearance. You can instead add a new edge to your current laminate counters.

 

Custom Countertop Edges 

  • Custom countertop edges can be designed and fabricated to your unique style.
  • Our kitchen design experts can work with you to create custom countertops that complement your space while also making a statement.
  • Custom edges are recommended as a finishing touch for luxury and upscale kitchen renovations.
  • When choosing granite countertops, consider a custom rock face or chiseled edge that exposes the raw stone to give your kitchen a rustic and natural feel.

Standard Depth for Countertop Edges 

Standard countertops have a minimum depth of 3/4 inch with the average being 1″ – 1 1/2″. This is an industry standard, and it’s been around for decades. It ensures a relatively flat surface. If you’re working with a contractor or designer who has experience in your area, they should be able to recommend an appropriate edge style that will work well in your kitchen.

 

All of these countertops are great options for both your kitchen and bathroom. We recommend you list your priorities, such as style and durability, in order to properly choose the best countertop for your home. If you need assistance to further understand which will work best in your house, please contact us or visit our blog for creative inspiration

  • Ask your Murad Floors consultant about any of these countertop materials for more information. We can help you transform your kitchen quickly, easily, and at an amazing price. Just give us a call at 972-799-6009or schedule your free design consultation online and we’ll bring your dream home to life!

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