The Pros and Cons of Different Countertops

Choosing the right countertops can really improve the look of your kitchen and make the rest of the room come together. With so many different materials out there, it can be difficult to make a choice or know what will work best in your home. Common materials for countertops include stainless steel, glass, wood, travertine, recycled materials, and granite. Each material has its own unique set of pros and cons.

A stainless steel countertop is incredibly easy to clean. All you have to do is wipe them down with soap and water, and you're good to go. Additionally, they will match with any color, which will make decorating your kitchen quite easy. However, they have the tendency to look a bit cold and sterile because of their shiny silver color. If you want a warm, inviting kitchen, this may not be the look for you.

Like stainless steel, glass counters look sleek and clean and work well with a modern-looking kitchen. Additionally, glass is very versatile and can be stained any color and cut into any shape. It is also very easy to keep clean. The main downside of glass is that it can be expensive, especially if you want it cut into a custom shape to properly fit over your counter.

If a sleek and modern look isn't your style and you want a warmer, more inviting atmosphere, you might want to consider wood countertops. Thick wooden counters will give your kitchen a rustic, country chic look. If you seal the counter with a protective coating, it will be sanitary and you will be able to chop vegetables and meat directly on the wood itself, like a chopping block. The main downside of wood is that like glass, it can get quite expensive.

Travertine counters have also become fairly popular in recent years. This material goes well with many different decorating schemes and will give your kitchen a warm and inviting look. However, travertine's pitted surface can trap bacteria and liquids if it isn't sealed properly, which can make it very time-consuming to clean.

In addition to travertine, recycled countertops have also become quite popular. This type of counter can be made out of a variety of different recycled materials, including glass, plastic, and concrete. These counters will look great with bamboo cabinets and flooring.

Although travertine and recycled counters have surged in popularity, granite is still the overwhelming favorite when it comes to counter materials. This versatile material will match well with many different design styles, meaning you won't have to change it each time you do a kitchen remodel. Additionally, it is more durable than most countertop materials and is quite resistant to chipping, scratching, breaking, and cracking. This means that you won't have to repair or replace it soon after you buy it. Recently, honed granite has become very popular. This type of granite has a matte finish, as opposed to the polished finish of regular granite.