Kitchen Counter Tops
Kitchen countertops are built to take a beating. After all they pretty much get exposed to every spill, cut, drop and burn that takes place in your kitchen. Therefore you will need to select a surface that is both durable and attractive. If you're not sure what would work best in your kitchen, you can always ask your designer who is helping to remodel your kitchen what they think would be ideal.
Here are some examples of materials that you can use to give your kitchen that tough but gentle look.
Butchers Block
Made from wood, the butcher’s block is warm and friendly and inviting. It lets your guests know that your kitchen is for cooking not for admiring, although they may do that as well. The hardwood strips glued together are the best way to secure this look.
Here are the best attributes of the butcher’s block:
Very Sanitary
Cuts and scratches give character
You can always sand it down to give your self a
‘new’ kitchen countertop
You can rub it down with oil for a great finish
Try not to get it too wet
Ceramic Tile
Made from natural clay, ceramic tiles have all of the properties of the earth. This includes:
Resistance to heat
Resistance to stain
What to watch out for:
Cleaning to grout between tiles
Tiles can chip easily if hit
Laminate (Formica)
This is the most common form of countertop due to its diversity and durability. It was popularized in the 1950’s and has been going strong ever
since. It lasts a long time, but when it
is damaged, it must be replaced; it cannot be repaired. The main benefits of laminates are:
Low cost
Huge range of colors and patterns
Grease resistant
Rounded edges
Hides scratches
Multiple color options
