Remodeling or designing a look for your kitchen can be an exciting project. Choosing a suitable kitchen countertop is an important step as it is usually the centerpiece for many kitchens. One must consider the function, the appearance as well as the cost of the countertop. Prices can vary from $10 to more than $100 per square foot and should be taken into consideration.
The most affordable types are laminates, which range in price from $10-$40 per square foot. Although they're not as durable as some styles, they are fairly easy to install. Fortunately, they are inexpensive to replace, as they will begin to wear and show signs of age quickly.
There are also a wide variety of colors and textures to choose from. Some provide very good stain resistance and ease of cleaning. Replacement of these kitchen countertops can usually be accomplished in a weekend. It may be easier to replace the plywood underneath as well, rather than spending hours preparing the old stuff.
Another style, that is in the middle price range, is ceramic tile. These can cost as much as $50 per square foot, although some can be as little as a few dollars. They're relatively easy to install new, but present some challenges when trying to replace or repair. It can be tedious to separate old pieces that have been stuck together for quite some time.
The biggest problem with ceramic tiles is grout, because of the difficulty it presents for cleaning. They might crack ever so often although they are considered quite lasting on the whole. When this happens, they are usually left alone since they are so difficult to replace. Because of this, these countertops often begin looking old and rundown.
They are very resistant to heat, staining and scratching, and can last a lifetime if cared for properly. They are also very easy to clean.
One of the more recently conceived types is styled concrete. This kind usually runs around $50 per square foot. It comes in a variety of colors and offers excellent heat resistance.
It is recommended that a professional install this type of countertop. It is heavy and usually needs sealed a few times before use. It does need quite a long period for it to dry.
Another mid-priced option gaining popularity again is stainless steel. It usually runs around $50-$65 per square foot. Although the surface is easy to clean, it does show scratches and will become splotchy looking over time.
Marble material has been popular for many years. It's a bit more expensive, running around $75 per square foot. If sealed regularly, this style of countertop will look great for years. It can be stained easily if it is not sealed well. This type is also available in a variety of colors and patterns.
If you're budget will allow it, one of the best kitchen countertop materials is granite. Prices range from $80 per square foot to much more than that. This type must also be sealed regularly, but you can't beat the look and durability. Installation can be a bit trickier and should probably be done by professionals. This will give the final result less visible seams.
Engineered stone is a nice mix of modern technology and traditional looks. This type is in the middle of the price range, usually $50 per square foot or more. The choices of patterns resembling stones are varied. This style really gives you an opportunity to use your imagination.
This material is very durable and heat resistant. Another positive thing to note is that it does not need to be sealed. Stains and scratches should not be a problem either. You can decide to fix up this sort of kitchen countertop on your own, however, the safest way is to engage the services of a professional.
Now you have the information you need to choose the right countertop material for your specific needs. You would be able to find beautiful designs and choices that are lasting to suit the budget you are on.
When it comes to creating your own concrete countertops, there are two methods to consider: The first is to pour the concrete directly on top of your new cabinets and hand trowel the surface; the second is to build molds for the countertops and pour the countertops off site. Pouring the countertops offsite has a lot of advantages including a smoother surface, less of a chance of damaging the cabinets, and more control over the curing process.
Before taking on the project of making your own concrete countertops, it is important to make sure that your cabinets will be able to support the overall weight of the concrete.. Concrete countertops tend to weigh between 12 and 22 pounds per square foot when they're poured at a thickness of two inches. Most higher quality cabinets that are made of plywood or solid wood can hold the weight... be careful of cabinets that are made of particleboard or fiberboard. If the cabinets are not strong enough themselves, you may have to using bracing or extra support to strengthen your cabinets.
With concrete countertops is very important to make sure that your measurements are accurate, especially since you will be building a template. There are two ways to create a template: trace the countertop base on an oversized piece of wood veneer or create a template by connecting strips of wood veneer. The template that you create should be the exact size of the countertop base or cabinet top and not the size of the countertop that will go on it. If you plan on using wood veneer strips, secure the strips to the surface of the cabinet top with the hand stapler. On corners, use a diagonal piece for extra support . If the template is particularly long or wide, add strips for cross supports. Score and snap off ends with the utility knife and square.
As you are building the template, it is important to think about where your seams and countertop overhangs will be positioned. If you have any sections that are going to be than about 7 or 8 feet, they are prone to cracking and can be difficult to move. You can reduce the chances for cracking by incorporating joints or seams in your countertop.
Countertop overhangs and the countertop lip that extends beyond the face of the countertop will add dimension between the face of the concrete and the face of the cabinet as well as prevent things from dripping onto the face of the cabinet. A good rule of thumb is to use a 3/4" overhang for your countertops.
Clearly mark the locations for the seams on your molds so that the pieces can be easily identified. You should also measure your countertop base again and write these measurements on the template to ensure accuracy. Once your template is complete, it is time to find a place to actually build your mold and pour the concrete. Since the concrete will require time to cure, it is important to pour the countertops in an area with limited exposure to tempurature changes and the weather.
When choosing the material to build your mold, use a material that will allow easy separation from the curing concrete. Once you have the mold built, use bathroom caulking to seal all of the edges of your mold. This will also allow you to slightly round over the edges, rather than having sharp edges and corners.
Both Moses Wright & Gary Nealon are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Moses Wright has sinced written about articles on various topics from Brain Injury, Credit Loans and Diabetes Treatment. Moses Wright loves to engage in DIY Home improvement projects during his free time. This site was started to provide fellow home improvement enthusiast more resources on. Moses Wright's top article generates over 60500 views. to your Favourites.
Gary Nealon has sinced written about articles on various topics from belly fat, Internet Marketing and Weight Loss Pills. I have been remodeling houses and rental properties for over 15 years. I have discovered the secret to saving thousands on . Find out my secret to b. Gary Nealon's top article generates over 8100 views. to your Favourites.