Top 10 Countertop Style Trends - Orlando Countertops

November 10, 2008

Choosing the right countertop style is an important first step when buying new countertops.  There are a wide variety of options available, and each product has its own pro’s and con’s.  This article goes over the top 10 countertop trends seen in and around Orlando and will help you determine which style is right for your new kitchen or bathroom.

  1. Granite Counters
    The most elegant and valuable choice for countertop is granite. Not only is it beautiful, but it is also durable and can last for a very long time. The problem with granite is that it requires regular maintenaince, has a high price, and there are a limited number of colors compared to other countertop materials. Granite is great about being durable and although it needs to be sealed, this is what keeps it from getting stained and continue to be beautiful. Granite countertops will add value to your home.
  2. Engineered Stone
    Composed of 93% quartz particles, Engineered stone is a beautiful alternative for countertops. Basically stain resistant and very durable, this nonporous countertop is very durable, comes in a large range of colors, and is basically maintenance free. Just like granite, Engineered stone is a more expensive alternative.
  3. Solid Surface
    These types of counters are durable and easy to maintain because if you have a scratch, you can just sand it out. They are stain resistant, seamless, and they come in a large variety of colors and patterns. The only problem with this type of counter is they are not very heat resistant to hot pans. They also are a pricier countertop option.
  4. Ceramic Tile
    An inexpensive and resourceful choice for homeowners, Ceramic tile comes in several styles, colors, and patterns. It is easy to clean and durable. The only issue is that because ceramic tile is an uneven surface, it can chip or crack. Additionally the grout will stain over time.
  5. Laminates
    Laminates are made of a plastic synthetic material that comes in a large range of patterns and colors. The Laminate’s smooth surface makes it easy to be cleaned nad maintained. They are an inexpensive option and are also durable, however with time they will scratch and chip.
  6. Wood or Butcher Block
    Available in a wide range of colors and finishes, Wood countertops bring warmth to a kitchen. Wood is easy to clean and if there are any scratches or anything, they can easily be sanded away and resealed to look like new. One problem with wood countertops is standing water can cause damage and wood tends to stain over time and absorb food odors.
  7. Stainless Steel Counters
    Seamless, heat resistant, and durable, stainless steel creates a contemporay appeal to your kitchen.  Although durable and easy to clean, stainless steal scratches easily and can be very noisy. It is also a more expensive choice for a countertop.
  8. Soapstone Counters
    Often used in historic homes, Soapstone is a soft, dark gray countertop. Soapstone is stain resistant but requires regular maintenace with mineral oil. Additionally it may chip or scratch and is especially weak around the edges.
  9. Marble
    A very expensive countertop option, normally Marble is not used for entire kitchen. Marble is very elegant looking and is waterproof, heatproof, and is a luxurious option for a home. Marble does require regular maintenaince, such as periodic new sealers, to prevent staining and scratches.
  10. Concrete Counters
    Concrete is strong, heat resistant, scratch resistant, and can be tinted with a large range of colors. Also, if you have an unusually shaped kitchen, this is a great option because it is often poured into molds in your kitchen. However, concrete can be subsceptible to staining and therefore needs to be sealed and waxed periodically. Additionally, concrete can crack and some do not think it gives a warm look to a kitchen.

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