Behind the Countertops: Choosing the Right Surface for Your Kitchen
by Jessica Groach
Home Improvement Ideas Columnist
If you’re thinking of taking yet another crack at that kitchen, consider new granite, quartz, or laminate countertops for your next kitchen remodeling project.
But first, consider your lifestyle, substance durability, and cost.
Lifestyle
Are you a chef? Do you have time to apply sealant? How important is it that your guests be impressed? Granite is a popular countertop option right now, not only for its unique beauty, but because it's chip and scratch resistant, and a perfectly flat, even surface just right for rolling out dough. It may run anywhere from $70 to $100 per square foot, but with proper care and regular sealing, it will last beautifully for years to come. Granite countertops are one kitchen remodeling project that will pay off for you at resale time.
Durability
If low maintenance countertops are your thing, consider quartz surfacing. Quartz countertops provide the look of natural stone, but because the quartz is blended with epoxy resin, it's virtually indestructible. You'll never have to seal it, its diamond-like hardness ensures scratch-resistance, and it won't stain. It's also available in most any color. Expect to pay $70-$250 per square foot, but you really will get your money's worth.
Cost
Laminate countertops are the most common for a reason - laminate countertops are versatile, durable, and very affordable. Synthetic, laminate countertops can be designed to look like anything—even granite, marble, or wood. It comes in most any color you can think of, it's easy to clean and maintain, it's impact resistant, and at about $5-$20 per square foot, anyone can afford it.
With full kitchen remodeling projects running anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000, countertops may be the best kitchen remodeling project. They are relatively inexpensive, but can significantly add to your home's value.
Sources
About the Author
Jessica Groach, a new homeowner herself, is a freelance writer and writing instructor at the University of Nevada, Reno.
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