5 Countertop Options You Didn’t Think Of

07 Dec 5 Countertop Options You Didn’t Think Of

Kitchen remodels can be exciting, yet daunting remodels due to their extensive nature and materials list. There are many material choices to be made, ranging from: flooring, cabinetry, wall color, appliances, and countertops. Today, granite and quartz are both very popular options due to their durability and beautiful aesthetics. However, don’t think that granite and quartz are your only two options for quality countertops. (To learn more about granite and quartz countertops, check out this article.) Don’t be afraid to try something new for your kitchen remodel and step outside of the box! Here are five types of countertops that you might not have considered before:

Custom wine bar installed in place of a small closet

Soapstone

Since soapstone is dense and non-porous, drops and spills can be easily wiped up and you don’t have to worry about staining. Each soapstone slab is entirely unique from the next and provides charming aesthetic. This material is non-porous and will never absorb liquids. Anyone with a soapstone countertop can choose to add mineral oil to the countertop. This creates a darker hue. In comparison, soapstone can be left alone and develop a natural patina over time. An additional bonus is that it is extremely heat resistant, so leaving warm pots and pans on the counter won’t affect the soapstone.

Copper

Copper countertops can be a beautiful option for you space since they add warmth through their rich earthy tones. A benefit of copper is that it is easy to clean and are naturally microbial. Most stains and spills can be easily wiped up and cleaned with soap and water; however, copper can be tarnished and will react to spills. This can be a benefit or a drawback since it will create an “inconsistent” look that some people prefer, while others steer away from.

Zinc

Zinc is similar to stainless steel countertops in that they share the same gray metallic coloring. Zinc is similar to copper in that it develops a patina over time since it reacts with water, fingerprints, spills, and stains. Again, this countertop may not be the right choice for perfectionists who prefer a consistent look and feel. In addition, zinc countertops are non-porous and have anti-bacterial properties that make it a good choice for food preparation.

Mineral Oil Being Applied to Butcher Block. Photo: Wikipedia

Butcher Block

Butcher block countertops are composed of thick strips of maple. oak, cherry, or walnut and are glued together to form a solid surface. Although maple, oak, cherry, and walnut are the more popular choices for countertops, almost any type of wood can be used for butcher block countertops. They also come finished or un-finished, depending on whether or not you intend on using the countertop for a cutting board or for display. Luckily, both sealed and un-sealed butcher block countertops can be refinished to reveal virtually good-as-new countertops for a small cost.

Concrete

Concrete is an extremely durable material and can withstand wear and tear without chipping or scratching. It can also be formed into any shape imaginable since it is poured. A bonus of concrete countertops is that they are also heat resistant, so setting your hot pots and pans on the counter won’t lead to warping. They can also be easily customized since they can be made in an endless possibility of colors. However, concrete countertops need to be sealed in order to protect it from heat, water, and stains.

Kitchen countertops can will affect the feel in any space. When choosing countertops for a kitchen remodel, it is important to consider style, durability, and costs when assessing what is right for your home. Kitchen countertops can take up a large portion of your budget when doing a kitchen remodel, but it can also add value to your home. Call Balducci Additions and Remodeling today for any further questions on kitchen countertops, along with any other questions regarding kitchen remodeling. We have over 30 years of experience and we would love to assist you and creating your dream kitchen. Give us a call at 804-730-0982.