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Along with cabinets, countertops can really make or break a kitchen or bath. Below is a run-down of the basic types of countertops and their strengths and weaknesses.
Laminate. These countertops are created by gluing a plastic sheet, or laminate, to particle board or sometimes plywood. This is one of the most common types of countertops because it is by far the least expensive, comes in a wide variety of colors, and is very easy to maintain.
Solid Surface, also known as cultured marble. Most people know solid surfacing from DuPont's Corian, but other manufacturers also make this type of countertop. On the plus side, it is seamless so the countertop and sink can be one unit for a striking design statement. On the downside, it can melt if something very hot is placed on it.
Natural Stone. This includes several types of stone, such as marble, granite, limestone, and slate. Natural stone is very beautiful and durable, but it needs to be resealed often as it is porous.
Engineered Stone. Quartz surfaces (a hard non-precious stone that is bond together by resins) is the most common engineered stone. It has all of the benefits of natural stone, with added value of strength, durability, color selection, and high solvent resistance & requires much less maintenance.
Butcher Block. Great for cutting meats and vegetables, butcher block is usually used for only one section of a countertop. It needs regular cleaning and sometimes sealing and sanding.
Tile. Though it can be eye-catching, tile is very hard to keep clean due to the fact food and bacteria can get stuck in the grout, tile could be from any type of material available such as granite marble and even engineered stone.
Concrete. Concrete countertops are certainly an acquired taste and won't appeal to everyone. They are very impervious to heat and come in a variety of colors. The great thing about concrete is you can embed almost anything that is dry into the mold for the pre-poured mix and then finish with a colored clear epoxy or just seal for less sheen.
But the sky's the limit for countertop options. In addition to those outlined above, you can choose stainless steel, terrazzo, and much more. In fact, choosing a countertop can be the most fun and rewarding part of kitchen design.
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