Today, countertops are no longer considered extravagant and exclusive only used by the rich and famous to showcase their wealth and aesthetic tastes but even normal middle class people can afford them. People usually want to decorate their kitchen and bathroom tops to match the color, theme and environment of their residences. But there are so many options available in the market that more often than not homeowners get confused while choosing the best counters that suit their demand. So how do you choose the most suitable countertop to make your kitchen or bathroom look more glamorous?



Things to consider before choosing:

„«ƒn We use countertops almost all the time - while assembling our meals, using the toilet and hence they get a lot of beating. So, the most important thing one should consider while choosing is the durability and resistance power of the material that has perfect edges. The material should have smooth surface, be easy to clean, resistant to stain, scratches chemical, heat and water.

„«ƒn One should also look at the material and how it is manufactured. Some counters need simple processing and some require lengthy processing. Naturally, the one with simple processing will take less impact and remain strong during customization.

„«ƒn Installation is another important aspect while choosing the perfect countertop for you home. While most of the materials can be customized and installed, one should still consider which material is best suitable for which part of the house.

„«ƒn You must choose a renowned company that has the best qualified crew and good track record of customer service not to mention good bargaining offers.

„«ƒn Most importantly you want choose a unique surface that will set you apart from your peers and make them envy of your prized possessions.

So which Material?

Countertop materials can be divided into two broad groups and almost all have their respective advantages and disadvantages.

Natural Stones Used for Countertops:

Granite

Granite is one of the hardest materials available and extremely scratch, water, heat and stain resistant. But what makes this natural stone apart from other counter tops is its immense aesthetic appeal that is unparalleled. Found in various colors and shades, granites greatly increase the charm of your kitchen. Granites are serviceable if the need arise. Granite is expensive upfront, but it is well worth to have a piece of the world¡¦s history, and to have a one of a kind look. Granite comes with many type of finishes, honed, polished, flamed, brushed, and many more.

Marble is also very beautiful material like granite for countertops but it is not as chemical resistant as granite. Hence, polished marble countertops are prone to etch marks that may resemble water marks. You can have different marble finishes according to your choice and taste- honed, polished, tumbled, brushed etc.

Man-made Surface:

It is a solid plastic material that is resistant to stains, and liquids. It can be found in various designs and colors and matt or a low gloss finishes. But it is very expensive, easily get scratched, low heat resistant and over all not eco friendly. As it is not a natural material, the aesthetic value is not that appealing too. Man-made materials look like they came off an assembler belt, and give a look of run of the mill type with no individuality, no personal touch, no real way for you to make it difference from others.

Formica:

This artificially made laminate (plastic and wood) has many good properties of a countertop. Formica is relatively durable, easy to clean, stain resistant, has good finishes and over all inexpensive. But as it is man made, most find it aesthetically boring although it tries to simulate the colors of natural stones. It is very common and used by those who do not have a taste for beauty.

Many people use wood countertops which are repairable, fairly attractive and durable if taken good care. But their resistance against heat, water and scratch is very low and there is little scope with wood countertops in terms of color or design. They are also less durable and a lot of labor is needed to care them properly.

Ceramic Tiles:

Ceramic tiles are quite popular with many home owners due to their durability, reasonable price, resistance qualities and wide range of color and designs. These tiles are made by joining tiles with grouts and they are repairable too. They are renowned for being resistant to scratch, stain, water, heat and bacteria. But they have one major drawback- they must be cleaned regularly which is tiresome. Ceramic tiles may also get cracked.

So what do you choose? The man made materials look too common- without any aesthetic value and sometimes sore to the eyes. They also create great environmental hazards and are not serviceable or recyclable. Once they get damaged, you must condemn them like a one time pen. On the other, although natural stones are a bit more expensive ¡V what they give you is value for your money. It is not an unnecessary expenditure but an investment in beauty and in future. The aesthetic value of a natural stone countertop sets it apart from other. Moreover, it is very much serviceable and over time if it looses a bit of shine or glossiness, it can be easily and completely restored to her glamorous self.