When it comes to types of countertops, you won’t want for options — you can cover your counters with everything from affordable laminate to timeless tile. In 2013, ConsumerReports.org estimated that replacing 56 square feet of countertop may range from approximately $560 to over $5,000; it is a massive investment that needs a lot of research. While the option of greatest bang for the buck finally depends on your individual preferences, budget and demands, know the pros, cons and costs of basic countertop types to make a well-informed choice.
The Laminate Route
Laminate typically offers the most inexpensive countertop alternative, clocking in at about $10 per square foot, according to 2013 figures from ConsumerReports.org. Laminate comes in plenty of colors, textures and patterns — like a few that mimic rocks along with much more expensive countertop surfaces — and also is easy to install, clean and maintain. While general-grade laminate withstands heat, impact and stains, it is more likely to nicking, scratching and warping, it frequently contains visible seams and its imperfections can’t be mended. Laminate is certainly cost-effective, but it best suits areas that see “heavy use but minimal misuse,” in the words of ConsumerReports.org.
Versatile Tile
Tile ranges widely at cost — from approximately $2 to upwards of $80 per square foot as of 2013, based on the tile — but with intelligent shopping, it’s undeniably cost-effective. The variety of colors, textures and patterns suit virtually any style of kitchen or Concepts for designer bathrooms Pittsburgh, from Old World to cutting-edge. Unlike laminate, tile ranked to be used on floors or seams holds up to cuts and scratches and, because it’s modular, chipped or broken sections are easy to replace. While tile offers low-fuss cleaning, you’ll need to invest in sealed grout to prevent unsightly and unsanitary bacterial growth.
Rustic Butcher Block
Butcher block, a natural wood countertop, which fits particularly well with cottage, country and rustic styles. Based on 2013 quotes from Houzz, butcher block comes with a entry-level cost of approximately $35 per square foot. Butcher block countertops need a little more maintenance than other types — you will want to frequently oil and soften that the surface but they provide a particularly hardy alternative. You may leave scrapes untreated if you like a well-worn patina or sand them outside to keep your countertops looking fresh. Burns and water stains won’t come outside, however, so if you don’t enjoy the weathered style, this may not be the ideal option for around the stove or sink.
Other Options
While laminate, tile and butcher block typically offer you the most affordable options, you may still get plenty of bang for your buck with more costly countertop materials. For instance, soapstone — that costs as little as $70 per square foot, as of 2013 prices — offers a granite alternative that lasts for many years and takes about a natural, nuanced patina over time. At about precisely the exact same cost, stainless steel countertops cater to sleek fashions. For high-traffic kitchens, those extremely durable countertops withstand heat, bacteria and blemishes. On the other hand, the demand for custom fabrication adds significant expenses. As a middle Landscaping design Wilmington between the cost of butcher block and stainless steel, engineered stones strike a balance between modern and casual, offering scratch and stain resistance, offset by a vulnerability to heat.