Selecting countertops is one of the most important decisions you will make during your kitchen renovation project. Countertops come in a wide array of materials and cuts, so making a selection can be a bit overwhelming. When you work with KC Kitchen Remodeling, we can help you pick countertops that suit your needs and your budget. 

The Different Types of Countertops

From budget options to expensive, luxurious selections, there are quite a few materials used to make countertops. We recommend granite or engineered stone countertops because they offer the best durability, but you can weigh the pros and cons of each material and choose what’s best for you. 

Laminate 

Laminate is by far the cheapest option available, but it has a few negatives. While it’s easy to find laminate to match your kitchen, it is very easy to damage, and isn’t known for durability. Laminate will be scratched up in no time, and hot pans can cause severe damage. Overall, it’s not a great choice if you want your countertops to look and function well for a long time. 

Granite 

Granite is one of our favorite countertop materials because it is durable and attractive. It comes in a variety of colors, and each slab is unique. You can select granite countertops with a matte or polished finish, and it is durable. While some granite selections can be expensive if they are imported, it is possible to find affordable granite countertops for your kitchen. 

Marble

Marble is another popular choice that can give your kitchen an upscale, luxurious feel, but it is a softer stone that requires much more care than harder materials like granite. While marble looks nice, it can require a lot of maintenance to retain its appearance. 

Engineered Stone

There are a lot more color options available when you choose engineered stone, and it’s virtually indestructible. We love how durable and long-lasting engineered stone countertops can be. It’s stain-proof, heat-proof, and more eco-friendly than other countertop materials. 

Concrete

Available in a variety of colors and finishes, concrete countertops can look beautiful, but they require a lot of maintenance. Moisture and heat can easily damage concrete countertops, and you will need to seal and wax them multiple times each year to keep them in good condition. 

Wood and Butcher Block

Butcher block is a well-loved countertop material, and it’s more affordable than stainless steel or stone. You are able to select the type of wood and grain that best matches your kitchen, and butcher block can last a long time. This type of countertop material is sensitive to water damage, and you should avoid using your countertops as a cutting board to prevent damage. Sandpaper and oil are used to maintain butcher block countertops. 

Choosing the Right Cut

Once you’ve decided on a material, you can choose how you want the edges of your countertops to be cut. Eased, ogee, beveled, bullnose, and square edges are a few of the most common countertop cuts, and they each offer different pros and cons. 

Ogee

Ogee edges are safe and stylish, but they are harder to cut and therefore, more expensive. Ogee edges can also make it hard to wipe debris off the countertops. This type of edge works well on a granite kitchen island, but might not be the best cut for all of your counter space.

Beveled

Beveled edges are a bit sharp, and they offer a unique touch to your countertops. This edge isn’t the most luxurious, but it is compatible with quartz and granite. 

Bullnose

This is the most popular choice, especially for granite countertops. Many people choose a bullnose edge because it is round and safe. It’s not going to cut you if you accidentally bump into it, and it looks great in any modern kitchen. 

Square

While this type of edge offers the sleekest, most clean-cut look, many people avoid it because square edge countertops can be very sharp. If you have small children or are prone to bumping into your countertops, this may not be the best choice. 

Eased

Eased edges are a bit softer and safer than square edges, and they are less prone to chipping. Almost all countertop materials are compatible with eased edges.

Book Your Exploration Session Today

If you’re ready to get started on your kitchen renovation project, call our office or schedule a consultation on our website. We have over two decades of experience, and we would love to help you design a kitchen that’s beautiful, comfortable, and functional.