The kitchen is the heart of the home. Having a lovely kitchen, you can go home to after a tiring day is undoubtedly a dream everybody wants to achieve. However, achieving a relaxing and beautiful kitchen takes time and effort. There are various steps you have to take. One of these steps is designing a countertop that is aesthetically pleasing and highly functional.
Custom kitchen countertops are a fantastic element for your space if you are in the concept phase of redesigning your home. We seem to be well over the age of opting for poorly thought countertop styles or functionality, whether a comprehensive redesign or a comparatively tiny kitchen makeover. With that, these days, most, if not all, people are interested in investing in kitchen countertops that are custom. Here are the top reasons many individuals are putting their money into custom kitchen countertops:
Benefits of Custom Kitchen Countertops:
- Custom Kitchen Countertops fit perfectly in any space
Any customized kitchen component has one guarantee: it will precisely fit in the specific space wherever it is to be installed, providing the efficient solution for a quality touch to your home space. Even if there are oddly oriented objects in the room or you do not have enough kitchen space, hiring a professional to construct and design custom kitchen worktops will enable any area to become highly functional. - Custom Kitchen Countertops serve as a statement piece.
The kitchen offers even more creative license in the home in terms of style, size, and regular use. In general, the smaller the kitchen is, the more opportunity it is for you to draw more attention to your custom kitchen countertops because of the compacted kitchen space you have.
Wave farewell to the times when many homes followed a standard kitchen design template. A kitchen is now a place where you may combine individual style, long-lasting materials, and spectacular artistic choices.
Custom kitchen countertops will compliment your kitchen and give you the style you want while making sure it ties your kitchen space together. If you are having trouble deciding, consulting with a knowledgeable staff can work closely with you to understand your alternatives and discover your specific preferences. It can be challenging to visualize what you are searching for precisely, but working with a professional team can point you in the right direction to ensure that your custom kitchen countertops function as a statement piece in your kitchen space. - Custom Kitchen Countertops allow you to choose the right look for your kitchen.
A carefully chosen aesthetic will significantly improve your space’s overall appearance and feel. There are numerous custom kitchen countertop styles from which you can choose. By relying on the existing furniture in your kitchen or your colour preferences, you will have the opportunity to select the perfect kitchen countertop design or motif to complement the remainder of the kitchen furniture.
If you are unsure what kind of appearance you want for your kitchen countertops, talk to a specialist about which materials, colours, and surfaces to choose based on the design of your kitchen. Limestone, marble, laminate, concrete, granite, stainless steel, soapstone, and butcher block are some of the most common materials available in the market. To make an educated decision, an expert custom kitchen countertop provider will give you various samples of previously executed countertop projects so that you will have an idea of what look you want for your kitchen. - Custom kitchen countertops are highly durable, long-lasting, and low maintenance.
Suppose marble or granite is your only concept of a long-lasting and durable countertop. In that case, custom kitchen countertops will open your eyes to a large universe of diverse sorts of kitchen counter materials that are tough and exceptional.
You will be shocked by a wide range of options available from well-known manufacturers, many of which are nothing like conventional structural materials, which have traditionally been associated with their capacity to endure even the most severe processing. Modern kitchen countertops are also less engaging, but most people prefer them since they require so little upkeep to keep their current appearance.
Custom kitchen countertops offer a wide range of benefits that you can surely enjoy. You might be sold now on investing in your custom kitchen countertops. However, selecting the appropriate custom kitchen countertop material can be difficult because there are so many alternatives and choices in the market. Your preferences and priorities determine the ideal countertop. However, to help you choose, the essential qualities of each type of kitchen countertops are listed below to help you make the most informed decision.
- Granite
Granite is a renewable material that is naturally extracted and then split into blocks and slabs. Granite can be found in various places worldwide, including America, Asia, Europe, and Africa. Granite has a highly porous structure that needs to be sealed every 10 to 15 years to preserve it from discolouration and oil damage. With that, it would be best to inquire about any warranties, granite origins, and how long your granite will last before it has to be resealed and repolished. Granite usually comes in various finishes, ranging from leathered-finish to high shine. Granite prices range from modest to high, based on supply, species source, and polishing. Nevertheless, granite is an excellent choice if you ever decide on a custom kitchen countertop. - Quartz
Do you desire a high-end aesthetic without the hassle of upkeep? Then choose quartz. Quartz is an excellent choice if you have a relatively busy kitchen or young kids at home because it is less likely to stain and blemish. On the other hand, Quartz needs caution, particularly with brighter tints. This natural product is collected and manufactured with binders and colours. Quartz is one of the most robust stones on the planet. For a layer that is much more impervious to marks and discolouration, look for a mix of 93 per cent natural quartz and 7% binders or pigments.
Because quartz is one of the most resilient countertop materials on the market today, It is approved for use in industrial kitchens and medical centres. Because of the method of producing quartz, the air in the stone has been evacuated. This process makes quartz nonporous. The cost of quartz is a disadvantage. Quartz can be expensive, depending on the brand and colour. - Solid Surface
A solid surface is for you if you desire a countertop that is warm and smooth to touch. The concrete surface countertop also has a contemporary matte aspect and offers continuous moulding possibilities for drains, sinks, and modern system integration. Solid surface countertops are reliable and durable enough for a wide range of industrial use. Still, they also have the attractiveness and dimensional stability that make them ideal for home applications like kitchen countertops.
A solid surface is a sheet-like synthetic product made from mineral substitutes and binders. The content and manufacturing process affects the development of the product. When using a solid surface, seams are virtually undetectable, and the countertop can be shaped and combined with a sink for a smoother transition.
A solid surface is also a nonporous surface that resists stains and heat. With use, minor dents will emerge, but they can be polished out easily. Choose a solid surface kitchen countertop colour from an almost infinite palette, and rest assured that it will be uniform across the whole of your kitchen. Concrete surface prices vary depending on the type of solid material, the brand, and the colour. The price ranges from moderate to high. - Marble
Marble, in addition to granite and quartz, is a wise option for kitchen countertops. Marble’s exquisite, ageless beauty is one of its most appealing features. It will look beautiful, but every block is somewhat distinct, giving your counters a truly unique character. Each marble slab’s colour hues, designs, and veinings differ, providing it with its individuality.
Marble is a highly durable stone that resists scratches and can be kept in good shape for a long time. Although it requires more upkeep than granite counters, it is still a fantastic choice due to its durability. Try looking at all the historical structures and statues made of marble to see how long they last. As a result, if you drop heavy things on your kitchen countertops by accident, you won’t have to think about damages or scratches. In addition, marble is entirely resistant to heat. Marble is one of the most heat-resistant materials available, making it an excellent choice for a kitchen countertop surface.
One disadvantage of marble as a kitchen countertop material is that acidic substances can discolour and erode it. The nice thing is that coating your marble kitchen countertops can prevent this issue. This covering plugs the crevices on the stone’s surface, preventing solutions from being absorbed as rapidly. Your treated marble kitchen countertops should be stain-free as long as spills are cleaned soon. Another drawback is the high cost of marble. Depending on the species and brand, the price can be increased or exceedingly high. - Laminate
If you plan to make a kitchen renovation with a limited budget, consider a laminate kitchen countertop. A laminate countertop is created from multiple layers of plastic glued to kraft paper or particleboard to produce a sturdy solid countertop surface. Laminate countertops are almost always connected with Formica and other inexpensive countertops that garnered considerable attention in the 1950s and 1960s.
Laminate may be put without the assistance of a professional or experts because of its relatively low weight, as compared to heavy stone counters. Of course, this contributes to its low cost. Laminate will involve regular replacement than more lasting surfaces such as marble or quartz, but it could last several years with proper maintenance.
Avoid using laminate counters as cutting boards since they are easily scratched. It would be best to avoid placing heated goods directly on the countertop surface to minimize damage to your laminate kitchen countertop. It is also good to use a light soap to clean the surface. One disadvantage of laminates is that they are sensitive to burns and chipping.
Laminate countertops can delaminate over time, particularly if exposed to water. Delamination is hard to fix, and in certain situations, the whole countertop must be replaced. - Solid Wood
Solid wood countertops are still a popular option among several homeowners. Wood has a unique charm that will complement the look of any kitchen. The beauty of wood countertops is the reason why many people prefer them. They add warmth to any home that no other countertop material can match. A natural and soothing environment is created with a solid wood countertop.
Furthermore, hardwood countertops are significantly warmer than granite, marble, and other stone countertops, making them ideal for processing food ingredients. Wooden countertops are also gentler on kitchen equipment like cutlery than stone and marble countertops and will not tear them down for as long. Solid wood is also sustainable, which means that repurposed wood may be used to make new countertops, and outdated countertops can be reused for other purposes. Wood is a renewable commodity that can be regrown, making it an ecologically responsible option
On the other hand, manufacturers must also carefully coat wooden countertops with multiple layers of sealant. Otherwise, water will penetrate the wood and cause the growth of microorganisms, causing the wood to decompose and disintegrate. The wood must also be preserved regularly by refinishing it and using wood oil once a week to keep it from being subjected to harmful elements. Lastly, dents and scratches are also common in wood. This delicate wood quality means you will have to be especially cautious when it comes to your kitchen countertop. However, some property owners consider these blemishes regular wear and tear that lends the countertop its personality over time. - Stainless steel
If you are an inspiring cook or a professional chef, you should think about the benefits stainless steel countertops may provide in a busy kitchen. Stainless steel’s clean, sophisticated look works well in contemporary and traditional kitchens.
Unlike most countertop materials such as timber and granite, stainless steel withstands high temperatures and corrosion due to the chromium and nickel mixture. Stainless steel countertops are long-lasting and resistant to damage. They are water, stain, and heat resistant. They are nonporous so that no substances can pass through, and microorganisms cannot grow on them. Culinary acids, food colouring, and oils will not discolour them, and heat will not break or damage them. Steel countertops offer the cleanest surfaces when adequately managed and maintained. Also, you can produce an atmosphere of a spacious kitchen by using stainless steel. Steel bounces light, giving the appearance that the room is more significant and brighter. Even a tiny kitchen may seem vast and spacious with the right setting.
However, Stainless steel can appear dull and aloof. Some individuals, particularly those in occupations with an abundance of it, may not enjoy it. Steel may be viewed differently by medics and food suppliers, and they may not want it in their living space. Some people would still prefer marble and wood to steel because of the warmer colours they create. Stainless steel kitchen countertops can also scratch easily, and these scratches are almost always minor and unrepairable. This risk is anticipated, and as upsetting as it is, it should not be emphasized. The gleaming finish that you admire will fade over time, leaving marks that will add to the appearance and aesthetics of your stainless steel kitchen countertop.
How to find the best custom kitchen countertop provider?
You would most likely hire pros for your home renovation demands. This act is also applicable when selecting a custom kitchen countertop contractor. Suppose you are investing in a new kitchen countertop soon. In that case, you should only contact professionals to ensure that the job is done correctly, especially since you mainly want to make your kitchen countertop the focal point of your space.
So, if you would like to guarantee that your freshly constructed kitchen countertop will survive for the years to come, get one from reputable countertop suppliers. Here are some pointers on picking the best countertop provider for your kitchen.
- Research reliable suppliers around your area
Kitchen countertop builders can be found in a variety of techniques. You might talk to your friends for recommendations or look for one on the internet. Find out what prior clients had to say about their entire professional experience with the kitchen countertop provider. You can also review their previous projects for ideas. If most of the feedback is favourable, you might want to contact the countertop manufacturer. - Create a list of potential kitchen countertop suppliers
It would be best if you had various options for comparison to ensure that you select the best countertop contractor. You can then inquire about the contractors’ experience in the industry and whether they have any certifications or professional training. It is also crucial to ask about the timeline the potential kitchen countertop provider has in mind. Make sure you meet with each of your prospects to see which is the best fit for you and your requirements. - Make sure your contractor is trustworthy and transparent.
It would help if you did not accept anything other than an honest, transparent provider, especially since professionalism is at stake. Fear of asking questions should not limit your working relationship with your contractor. During a kitchen makeover, it’s expected that some issues or problems will arise, and no one can address those concerns more effectively than a competent contractor. - Inquire about the project’s expected cost.
After you’ve narrowed down your pool of possible providers, request written estimates from each. This quotation should cover the cost of the countertop and workforce and other fees. You may also anticipate them to perform a site visit before beginning the construction process.
If anything is ambiguous about the quotation, you can also start asking questions. When required, you can also haggle over the price. The agreed estimate will function as a formal project document once all queries have been answered. The operation should go as seamlessly as possible, and collaboration is crucial.
Final thoughts:
You must plan your home’s construction elements if you want it to be excellent. The flooring material, the paint colour on the walls, and the furnishing are all critical considerations. For your kitchen, which is considered the heart of your home, you will need to have a solid yet beautiful countertop that will turn heads in your tiny space.
Custom kitchen countertops are among the quickest ways to increase your house’s economic and cosmetic value. When you consider the benefits of a personalized countertop, it’s a no-brainer. Choosing quality materials, smooth installation, standard services, and customized construction are the three primary benefits of custom countertops, ensuring a flawless fit that will last you a long time.
It can be challenging to select the ideal kitchen countertop. However, before investing in such a significant upgrade, which is frequently one of the most costly aspects of a kitchen redesign, consider the abovementioned factors to help you choose the best kitchen countertop for your space.
You are ready to begin your hunt now that you understand what questions to ask yourself while finding the best countertops for your kitchen and the benefits and drawbacks of various materials. Whenever you buy your countertops, ensure it is from a respected brand and firm to ensure you get high-quality materials.
References:
- Cutting Edge Granite. 2020. 3 Advantages of Installing Custom Countertops in Your Kitchen. Retrieved from: https://www.cegranite.com/blog/3-Advantages-of-Installing-Custom-Countertops-in-Your-Kitchen_AE15S22.html. Retrieved on 30 April 2022.
- Dumpsters. 2019. How To Choose the Best Kitchen Countertops. Retrieved from https://www.dumpsters.com/blog/how-to-choose-kitchen-countertops. Retrieved on 30 April 2022.
- Flintstone. 2019. What to Consider Before Choosing a Countertop Replacement Company. Retrieved from: https://www.flintstonetops.com/what-to-consider-before-choosing-a-countertop-replacement-company/. Retrieved on April 30 2022.
- Granite and Marble. 2019. 4 Benefits of Custom Countertops. Retrieved from: https://www.graniteandmarblesolutions.com/about-us/blog/4-benefits-of-custom-countertops. Retrieved on 30 April 2022.
- Granite Pro. 2019. 3 Advantages of Custom Countertops. Retrieved from: https://www.graniteproremodeling.com/home-improvement-blog/3-advantages-of-custom-countertops/. Retrieved on 30 April 2022.
- HGTV. 2020. Choosing Kitchen Countertops. Retrieved from: https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/kitchen-remodel/choosing-kitchen-countertops. Retrieved on 30 April 2022.
- Kurtis Kitchen. 2018. 5 Things To Look For In A Countertop Installer. Retrieved from: https://kurtiskitchen.com/5-things-look-countertop-installer/. Retrieved on 30 April 2022.
- Legacy Kitchens. 2020. How-To Choose the Right Countertop Surface. Retrieved from: https://www.legacykitchens.com/news/how-to/how-to-choose-the-right-countertop-surface/. Retrieved on 30 April 2022.