Your kitchen countertops should support your food preparations, reflect your personal style, and fit within your budget. However, with so many materials to choose from, it can be hard to determine which one will best meet your needs. To simplify your journey to a better kitchen, here’s what you need to know about selecting countertops. 

How to Choose Kitchen Countertops

What to Consider 

When planning your new kitchen, think about your household’s needs. While budget is an important concern, you should also consider how frequently you’ll use the space for cooking, which will affect how durable you need the counters to be.

In addition, ask yourself how often you’re willing to clean and possibly seal them, as some materials require more maintenance than others.

You should also explore your style goals. For instance, will you use just one material for a cohesive look or combine a few for more visual interest? Do you want something simple and durable, or would you like a particularly stylish material to make your home stand out? 

Popular Materials 

With the above considerations in mind, you can review some of the most popular kitchen countertop materials to decide which options align with your needs. Here are a few:

• Granite: Strong and elegant, granite countertops are classic and popular. This natural stone is sealed to prevent staining, though you will need to reseal it every one to five years, depending on how porous your unit is and how often you use it. 
• Soapstone: A great choice if you like the antique look, soapstone is heat-resistant. While it may scratch or stain over time, many homeowners find that this adds to its antique appeal. However, it’s not particularly affordable.
• Wood: If you want something long-lasting, quaint, and relatively affordable, consider wood. Your contractor will seal and oil it to make it less porous, preventing cracks and stains. A slab of this material will suit both rustic kitchens and high-end spaces. However, this is high-maintenance and susceptible to heat and moisture damage.
• Marble: Although marble is both waterproof and heatproof, it’s expensive and also requires sealing to prevent stains. It comes in many colors, including stark white, beige, and black. If you select it, this will be a standout feature in your kitchen.

For help designing and selecting your kitchen countertops, turn to the remodeling experts at DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen. Serving Hartford County, CT, the experienced team approaches every project with precision and care. In addition to kitchen and bathroom designs, they also specialize in cabinet refacing and accessibility remodels. Learn more about their work with kitchens online or call (860) 680-8745 to schedule a free, one-hour consultation.