Remember Me
forgot your password?

Kitchen Countertops

Whether you are building a new home or remodeling an older one, kitchen planning and the countertop you will be using should be at the top of your list.

Kitchen countertops are one of the most used items in any kitchen. First of all let us take a look at the different materials available today for building that perfect countertop. Formica countertops have always been an old stand by and are used in many new homes today, they are easy to clean and come in a wide selection of colors, not to mention less expensive than some of the other materials.

Granite countertops are also very popular. Granite is second only to diamonds in hardness, so they are more scratch resistant than most any other countertop material, and can take a hot pot without any protection. They will be somewhat more expensive, but in my opinion, well worth it if this look fits your plans. The look of granite has always been a favorite with many people. One reason for this is because of the highly polished designs.

Wood counter tops are also very popular; they offer a feeling of warmth and are available in many colors and finishes. Maple and oak are the most popular woods used as counter tops, but can require a bit more effort to care for.

Laminate countertops are a good choice if you are on a budget. This type of countertop will often bear trademark names such as Nevamar, and Wilsonart. They too are easy to clean and have a smooth surface, and the pieces come pre-cut and are finished on the ends.

There are also several other popular materials out there for you to choose from, such as stainless steel countertops. Also a good choice, although somewhat noisy and are more expensive, but do make a great countertop if you like the clean look of stainless. However, stainless steel does require a bit more maintenance than most people realize.

Marble countertops are another good choice and are very durable, although they are not quite as durable as granite. Here again they do have a bit higher price tag, but are very beautiful in the right environment.

Soapstone countertops, more of a dark gray color and found many times in older homes but are again becoming quite popular in modern homes of today. Soapstone is quarried just as granite and marble. Quite a durable material in its own right, but will require a sealer to be used on the surface to help prevent staining.

This will give you some idea of what types of material you have available today. Keep in mind the kitchen countertop is almost always the first thing your friends will notice when entering your kitchen, so you will want it to stand out and make a statement and also be functional and practical. You will want to shop around to compare prices. Such places as Lowe's and Home Depot are always good places to start but always check out some of the name brand stores that deal in countertops. Sometime paying a little more will get you just what you are looking for. In the end you will most likely save money and just maybe have a countertop that will keep you smiling every time you walk into your kitchen.

Mike Eggert
For detailed information on the types of kitchen countertops available, please visit http://countertops.home-lawn-garden.com
Rate this Article: 0 / 5 stars - 0 vote(s)
Print Email Re-Publish

Add new Comment



Captcha

  • Latest Home and Family Articles
  • More from Mike Eggert

10 Things to Consider When Choosing a Neighbourhood

By: Elizabeth McLachlan | 15/11/2009
Where you live is as important as the house you live in. Maybe you have a good idea of where you want to live but don't let that keep you from looking at other neighborhoods. While looking around, don't forget to check the statistics, ask questions, do your research, and...

Unique Wedding Decoration Ideas For An Unforgettable Event

By: Paul Easton | 15/11/2009
The wedding decor should be chosen carefully, taking into account even the smallest details. You should decide which colors will be used, then you can try various combinations, funny or romantic, classical, modern or games of color that create a dynamic atmosphere, full of energy.

A Different Approach to Teaching Kids

By: Soophott Lert | 15/11/2009
Kids of different ages learn by different methods. For example, a toddler that has just turned two might enjoy finger painting, while an 8 year old girl will enjoy playing with her dolls. While various age groups learn by using different material, one thing is true for all age groups: Kids learn best with toys.

Top 10 Green and Eco-Friendly Toy Manufacturers

By: Mara Kaplan | 15/11/2009
A description of the "green" practices of 10 great toy manufacturers

How To Find The Best Deals To Fill Your Gun Cabinets

By: James Dulas | 15/11/2009
Guns are generally costly. But there are ways of finding great deals that will get that will get those cabinets filled in no time. This article contains information on that subject.

Homemade Fast Food Favorites

By: Patrick Carpen | 15/11/2009
This article offers three ideas for making fast food meals at home!

Planning a Disneyland Vacation

By: Sherry Tingley | 15/11/2009
When you have saved money for a family vacation, you know that one of the big expenses will be entertainment. Planning a Disneyland trip doesn't have to be expensive. There are several things you can do to save money when you go to Disneyland.

Kansas City Storage

By: lemurcaroline00 | 15/11/2009
If you are planning to relocate to Kansas or are simply renovating your home in Kansas, Kansas City Storage offers a complete solution to your storage needs.

Can Sleep Disorders Cause Depression?

By: Mike Eggert | 31/08/2006 | Non-Fiction
A recent steady has shown that millions of Americans and on a lesser scale a great number of Europeans have sleep disorders of one kind or another. Many say no matter how hard they try, it is hard to get good a night sleep.

Are Flex Fuel And Biodiesel Viable Options?

By: Mike Eggert | 31/08/2006 | Automotive
Once thought of as only a dream, Flex fuel vehicles are fast becoming a reality. The high cost of gasoline and fuels like Diesel have prompted auto makers around the world to start building automobiles that will burn more than one type of fuel.

Simple Fuel Saving Ideas And Tips

By: Mike Eggert | 31/08/2006 | Automotive
With today's gas prices now well over $3.00 a gallon in many areas we all need to find ways to cut our fuel costs. I think most would agree we can do a better job cutting our cost with a little effort in how we drive and maintain our vehicles.

Organize That Garage

By: Mike Eggert | 31/08/2006 | Home & Family
How many times have we taken our home garage for granted? We pile stuff in anywhere it will fit and maybe it will set there for years. Our garage can become so cluttered that sometimes there is not enough space for the automobile we drive. Sound familiar?

Kitchen Countertops

By: Mike Eggert | 06/08/2006 | Home & Family
Whether you are building a new home or remodeling an older one, kitchen planning and the countertop you will be using should be at the top of your list.

Septic Tank Basics

By: Mike Eggert | 02/08/2006 | Home & Family
Septic tanks are a necessity for many who live in rural areas, and newly developed areas that don't yet have sewer systems in place. This article will attempt to inform you of the basics to give you a better understanding of what they are and what is required to maintain them.

A Look At Hybrid Cars

By: Mike Eggert | 02/08/2006 | Automotive
Are hybrid cars, the cars of the future? Only time will tell.

Garden Gazebo Planning

By: Mike Eggert | 31/07/2006 | Gardening
Imagine having a place in your own back yard where you can enjoy all of the beauty of the outdoors without leaving your own home, with the right design and landscaping anyone can with a Gazebo.

Submit Your Articles Free: Signup
Article Categories




Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the Terms Of Use and Privacy Policy | User published content is licensed under a Creative Commons License.
Copyright © 2005-2008 Free Articles by ArticlesBase.com, All rights reserved. (0.35, 6, w1)