The countertops are usually the most forgettable element in the kitchen. But if you pick them wrongly, your kitchen experience may be affected. There is the place where you cook, relax, and experiment, after all. It has to suit your style and fulfill your needs at the same time.
Therefore, here is a quick guide to buying new kitchen countertops.
Start with the Cabinets
The cabinets give the countertops extra functions. Not only can you cook and wash dishes on top of them, but you can also store your kitchenware there. Therefore, this is the best part to start.
First, you should know that the cabinets and countertops do not need to be in the same color to match each other. In fact, you can use the cabinets to be in contrast to the countertops. It gives an accent to your kitchen.
Second, the materials for the cabinets determine how long it will last and how sturdy it will be against the moisture in your kitchen. If you live in a place with high humidity, you’d better use granite cabinets. They are way more expensive than wood cabinets, but they won’t get affected by humidity. If the humidity level is forgiving, then you are free to choose from these options: maple, oak, cherry, and pine.
Learn About the Functionalities of the Countertops
Do you cook occasionally or frequently? Do you like to host a party in the kitchen? Or do you have kids who’d love to express their curiosity in the kitchen and leave stains afterward? You should ask these questions before you can decide which material to use as your countertops.
The lowest price on the list is the butcher block countertops. But since it is made of wood, you will need to treat it with sealing oils, like mineral oil or pure Tung oil, every 6 months. If you don’t mind a little bit of maintenance, then this $3000 countertops can be your most economical choice.
The second option is the marble countertops. The beauty of marble is only second to granite. And it fits flawlessly with a vintage styled kitchen. However, marble is easily stained and etched. If you plan to use the countertops intensively for cooking, then you’d better not pick marble. But if you use them only for display, then marble is your best option.
Your third and best option is granite, of course. It is maintenance-free, looks great, and sturdy enough to withstand chipping and etching. But the cost is also the highest compared to the other two options above. Therefore, if you want to have granite countertops, you’d better set a plan for it first.
Consider Hiring an Interior Designer
You may consider yourself as a person with a taste. But placing the countertops and designing them is not the same as arranging furniture pieces. To avoid a costly mistake, you should hire a professional interior designer instead. Consult them about the effects that you want to create in the kitchen. And they shall translate your demands into reality. It’s really a hassle-free solution for your kitchen countertop design.