Cripps Kitchen
Top Countertop Choices for Busy Kitchens
Countertops that are designed to last and that can resist scratching and staining are essential for busy kitchens. There are several materials that are durable and resistant to heat and scratching to consider. Your final choice will depend on the features that you are looking for, your budget, and the type of look that you desire.
Granite
Granite countertops are a great choice for a natural material that is very resistant to staining and scratching. Installing granite in your kitchen can also significantly increase its value, as many potential homebuyers prefer granite countertops.
Although, you will not have as many color and pattern choices as synthetic materials, there are still a wide range of options available for granite colors that you can match with your current kitchen’s design or a new design. Keep in mind that granite also needs to be sealed every year to keep it from staining.
Quartz
Engineered quartz can look just like granite. Quartz contains a combination of resin and quartz, usually around 93-95% quartz and 5-7% resin. Quartz does not need to be sealed, unlike granite.
With quartz countertops you get the benefit of a far wider range of colors and patterns, as engineered quartz countertops can be created to look exactly as you want. Most importantly, quartz is also very durable and resistant to scratching and staining.
New Design, Inc. is here to help you determine what material is best for your lifestyle, design, and budget. We have many options of countertops. Contact us for more information.
Finch Bathrooms
We remodeled two full bathrooms. The design style for both bathrooms is light and classic for a timeless look. We combined white shaker cabinets, marble countertops, marble tile and chrome fixtures to complete the space.
Allen Bathroom
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- A modern floating double vanity with a thickened quartz edge profile.
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- We used tile to create a framed mirror and inset cabinetry for storage.
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- Under the floating vanity LED lights add ambiance.
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- A seperate custom dressing vanity with plenty of storage.
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- The dressing vanity is also equipped with LED lighting.
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- For easy cleaning we used a solid piece of quartz for the tub deck.
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- The curved tub deck sweeps into the shower to create a seat. A custom euro glass wall creates a seperation, while still feeling open and large.
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- Rain showerhead, body sprays, wall nitches, and a linear trough drain are just few of the amazing features in this shower.
Pros and Cons of Countertops
There are many different choices when deciding on a countertop for your kitchen or bath including laminate, solid surface, granite, and quartz to name a few. So how do you make a decision for what is best for you and your family? Here are some helpful tips to get you started.
Laminate
PROS: Laminate has many options and is affordable and easy to clean. It is light so does not need a thick cabinet base for support. Laminate can be made to imitate many of the more expensive countertops making it a good choice for many.
CONS: You cannot cut directly on laminate since it is easily scratches and can chip. Hot items should not be placed directly on the countertop as it can burn. Moisture over time sometimes will make the laminate peel. Laminate is difficult to repair once it is damaged.
Solid Surface
PROS: Solid surfacing does not require any special cleaners or sealing and burns and scratches can usually be sanded. The seams are inconspicuous. There are many options and very interesting and unique color and pattern choices. Solid surface countertops can imitate marble or concrete.
CONS: Solid surface countertops are easily damaged by heat and are susceptible to scratches, dents, and can stain.
Granite
PROS: Granite is a natural material that can come in polished and matte finishes and when sealed can resist many stains. Each stone slab is one of a kind giving a unique look. Granite comes in many patterns and colors. It is heat resistant and is not easily scratched.
CONS: Granite can chip and needs resealing to avoid stains. Granite is very heavy and needs cabinets underneath that can support its weight. Granite is more costly than some other choices.
Quartz
PROS: Quartz is very durable and requires no maintenance while still providing a similar look to granite. Quartz is available in far more patterns and colors than natural stone.
CONS: Quartz does not have natural variegation like granite. Quartz is costly.
New Design Inc. manufactures and installs countertops. Contact us to learn more.
