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Understanding Kitchen Countertop Choices
As the major work surface in the kitchen, countertops are sold in a wide range of shapes, materials and sizes. A kitchen countertop can be described as the kitchen’s workbench as it provides the basis for most kitchen-based activities. Everything from sorting-out kitchen supplies to operating kitchen appliances and preparation of meals is carried on the countertop.
Aside from their functionality, countertops should have the ability to create a profound visual impact. Kitchen countertops occupy a significant amount of space and hence, the choice of countertop greatly shapes the style exuded by a kitchen. Regardless of the material chosen, every kitchen countertop is manufactured to be durable enough to face the challenges of everyday use. However, among the many choices, each type of countertop puts forth its own levels of overall durability and visual elements.
Natural Stone Countertops
Natural stone countertops are usually regarded as the most dependable countertop choice for a kitchen, and the reasons are quite apparent. Natural stones, like granite or Silestone (quartz), are able to offer decades of maintenance-free performance. Ease of installation and negligible maintenance of a granite or quartz countertop translate into considerable cost savings in the long term. This aspect should be particularly noted by those who perceive natural stone countertops as expensive.
Granite and Silestone surfaces are immune against typical weathering agents found in the kitchen, including acidic fumes, vapors and some neglectful handling. Even the most severe form of moisture seepage cannot displace a properly-installed stone countertop. Natural stone surfaces are also the easiest to clean. In terms of the exterior, the natural gloss and elegance of granite and quartz surfaces is superior to any other contemporary countertop option.
Silestone, or quartz countertops, offer additional benefits over granite countertops. They are nearly four times the flexural strength of granite, making it less susceptible to chipping, cracking and staining. It is virtually maintenance free and will not burn or scorch when exposed to heat.
Solid Surface Countertops
Solid Surface Countertops provide the look of a natural stone countertop for a more affordable price. There are two main solid surface countertops available, Staron and Corian. The benefits of a solid surface countertop include a non-porous surface, which does not allow stains to penetrate while resisting the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria. They are also easy to clean, extremely durable and available in a wide variety of colors.
Understanding Laminate Countertops
Among the more fashionable choices retailed today, laminate countertops still retain a portion of the countertop marketplace. Laminate countertops are prepared by applying a thin layer of laminate over a substrate that is usually made of plywood or particleboard. The laminate is a thin, sheet-like material pasted through a special application procedure. Renowned for their various styles, laminates can be chosen across an exhaustive range of color shades and designer patterns. Laminate countertops are available with thermo-resistant and scratch-less coatings, and are usually the countertop of choice for the budget-minded consumer.
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Submitted by admin on 03/23/10 - 10:20 am
