Popular Counter Tops Used In Remodeling A Kitchen

Counter tops are an intricate part of kitchen remodeling, and the type of material chosen can play a very important part of the project. Most often, choices are based on looks, versatility, and durability. The most popular materials sought after today are granite, quartz, Corian(R) (synthetic marble), recycled glass, and concrete.

Granite provides a very sanitary counter top which does not harbor bacteria. It is very easy to clean with mild soap and water, or special granite cleaners that will provide a protective thin film. Granite counter tops do need to be sealed at least once a year. The surface is hard to scratch, very durable, is heat resistant and will not scorch or burn.

Quartz counter top surfaces are highly resistant to stains and scratches and have a low level of fluid absorption. They will also withstand limited exposure to heat without burning or scorching, and do not require any sealing. Quartz counter tops can be easily cleaned with mild soap and water, and bacteria has a tougher time taking hold in quartz than any other type of counter top.

Corian(R) (synthetic marble) counter tops are easy to maintain. They can be cleaned with soapy water or ammonia-based products, and are resilient to stains and high heat. Since the material is acrylic-based, scratches can be easily repaired by light sanding, and it has superior strength.

One of the main attractions of recycled glass counter tops is the fact that it is a "green" or sustainable building material. Recycled glass counter tops are made from 86-96 percent post-consumer recycled material and concrete. They are comparable to granite counter tops when it comes to scratch resistance, thermal resistance, strength and durability. The surface can be cleaned with a damp cloth, but mild soapy water should be used to remove dried spots or rings. Recycled glass countertops need to be sealed every year or two, depending on usage.

Concrete counter tops are undoubtedly the strongest ones available. They are strong enough to resist the most common types of counter top damage, such as scratching, breaking, chipping, and cracking. This type of counter top is not stain resistant, but a protective sealant provides the needed barrier to prevent staining. Additionally, concrete counter tops are heat resistant. It recommended that they be cleaned with a mild, non-abrasive soap and water. An added benefit of concrete counter tops is that they can be made to resemble many types of natural stone, such as granite and limestone.