A kitchen remodel isn’t complete without a beautiful countertop. As one of the most-used parts of the kitchen, you’ll want a countertop that you can easily clean and maintain. In today’s post, your local kitchen remodelers at DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of The Woodlands share our recommendations for low-maintenance countertops.
Recycled Glass
Recycled glass countertops are made from crushed glass mixed with clear resin to create an attractive speckled look. Resin is a durable material that can be made in custom colors. The pieces of glass are fully embedded in the resin and smoothed during manufacture, which eliminates any sharp edges. It also makes the countertop more resistant to heat. Resin is a nonporous material so it does not require sealing.
Cultured Marble
Natural marble is one of the most beautiful countertop materials and works with nearly every kitchen design. However, it can stain and chip, and its surface requires resealing once in a while. If you want the look of natural marble without its maintenance requirements, consider cultured marble. It’s a “synthetic” marble made from crushed stone and resin that closely resembles natural marble. As a manufactured material, it can be molded to specification. Like recycled glass countertops, cultured marble does not stain and is resistant to mild acids and nicks from knives.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is durable, beautiful and requires virtually no maintenance. Most of today’s kitchen appliances feature stainless steel exteriors, so a stainless steel countertop would easily blend in. Stainless steel has superior heat resistance, which makes it the ideal material for workspaces near the cooktop. Spilled liquids, even boiling hot ones, will have no effect on a stainless steel countertop.
Quartz
Quartz countertops are made from pressure-treated quartz shaped into slabs. It’s typically cut to specification instead of molded, and does not require fasteners during installation. Like cultured marble, quartz slabs are nonporous and require virtually no maintenance. Note that some types of quartz may have protective coatings, in which case you’ll want to avoid spilling acidic substances like vinegar and lemon juice. Leaving such substances on the surface may result in noticeable dull spots.
Soapstone
Soapstone is the only naturally quarried material on this list, and one of the oldest materials used for countertops. It’s primarily made of talc, which makes it softer than most quarried materials. Soapstone derives its name from its texture, which feels like a bar of soap when held. It has exceptional resistance to heat, staining and acids.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of The Woodlands offers a wide range of professional remodeling services, including bath and kitchen renovation. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (832) 743-2571 or contact us online!
