3 Different Types of Countertop Materials for the Home

When looking to modernize the bathroom or kitchen area, one of the major decorative changes that can impact the overall look is the countertops. The countertop is a practical surface in constant use and needs to not only look the part, but also give long-term durability and strength. Most of countertops use materials like natural or artificial stone. Both of these materials are highly attractive and can easily complement the look of the home with a choice of colors and finishes. In many cases, the artificial material can be more resistant to damage than the natural stone, and it is also the most cost-effective to purchase.

Here are a few of the most popular material options for the latest look in countertops:

Corian

A popular type of artificial stone is corian. This material is custom-made in a single piece to match the specific installation project. The single piece of material is not only attractive and stylish, but also non-porous to make it very easy to keep clean, which is especially useful in the kitchen environment. With no breaks between the different sections, there is no space for crumbs or other debris to build up.

Corian is very easy to maintain and can benefit from a regular clean to avoid issues with mold or bacteria development over the long-term. Use the ammonia-based cleaners or soapy water to maintain the appearance of this type of surface.

Granite

Granite is the most favored nature material and extremely durable and versatile. This high-end material is not only beautiful, but also heat-resistant to give a solid surface to use in the kitchen. A major quality of granite is the endless range of pattern variations and thousands of different color choices, which helps to create the most unique style in the home. Because this is a natural material with plenty of color and pattern variations, it can be very difficult to find a matching piece if the full range of countertops isn’t cut from the same slab.

Granite is a porous material which means that it is likely to pick up stains over time. Also, there is the risk of cracks developing if the surface is subject to significant temperature changes. To help maintain the appearance of granite, it can benefit to apply a sealing on an annual basis.

Silestone

Silestone is a further artificial material and has an appearance much like granite. While silestone is a more cost-effective alternative to the natural stone, it isn’t the most resilient and can be damaged by coffee, lemon juice, vinegar, wine, bleaches and intense heat. Also, it is not a practical choice for an outside kitchen because direct sunlight will soon cause the surface to discolor. Silestone is best cleaned using a mild cleaning solution and hot water. Plus, it helps to protect the surface with a cutting board or similar.