Countertops take up a lot of kitchen real estate. Choosing a surface that is pleasing to the eye, durable, and convenient to clean is an important part of redoing a kitchen or designing one from scratch. Use the tips about the following materials to make a successful choice.

Granite

Among the most elegant countertops are those made of granite. The gorgeous surfaces do require some care, however. Homeowners who want the classic elegance of distinction in their kitchens need to be committed to granite’s maintenance. Improper sealing can lead to the porous stone staining and it can harbor bacteria. It is limited to about twenty colors and is prone to chipping or breakage at the corners or if heavy objects fall on them. Still, granite is classic for a reason, and to the right homeowner, it is worth the price and effort involved.

Quartz

Quartz countertops elevate a kitchen to a higher level of elegance. This material is tough enough to provide decades of durability and pretty enough to want to keep it around that long. Home remodelers can enhance it using colorant to offer nearly any hue while keeping the feel and look of natural stone. It differs from marble and granite in that those are solid stone while quartz is engineered of about 9/10s quarts and the remainder of color and binder. Quartz is easy to clean but not as heat-resistant as crushed glass, concrete, or granite.

Laminate

Laminate countertops are made up of cores of hard particleboard bonded with layers of plastic laminate. This option is affordable and available in the widest range possible of shades and patterns. This provides great value and versatility as a kitchen countertop option. They are also less durable when it comes to heat and can be easily scratched. Easily cleaned, laminate countertops are a good choice for those with limited budgets and small children.

Recycled Glass

Generally, recycled glass countertops are up to 90% glass that is post-consumer. They have been in production since the mid-1990s, with glass sourced from both domestic and commercial uses. These popular, eco-friendly surfaces are highly individual and unique, capable of appearing contemporary or traditional. Not prone to cracking or chipping, they are easy to clean as they are non-porous.

Concrete

Among the newest offerings when it comes to countertop surfaces, concrete counters are made lighter and thinner with additives while maintaining durability. A custom material, it is frequently framed and poured right there in the kitchen. With stamps and stains, personalized touches are possible for homeowners. Concrete countertops are expensive to balance out their great strength and capacity for customization, rivaling granite or quartz.

Deciding on a pretty countertop can be a difficult choice. The prices and appearances vary widely, as do the durability and ease of cleaning. With this information about five of the prettiest options, the decision should be made a little simpler.

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Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She enjoys Tennis and spending time with her family.