KITCHEN & BATH COUNTERTOPS: Choosing the Right One for You

In the market for a new kitchen or bath countertop? There are a wide variety of options available
today, so how do you choose which is right for your needs? Some materials are less porous than
others and therefore more sanitary, but may not have the aesthetics you're looking for. Other
materials are very attractive but require periodic maintenance to look their best. Here is a list of
what's available to help you decide:

	Walker Zanger Ceramic Tile

TILE
Tile has been used on countertops for many years and is available in a wide variety of materials, colors and finishes. An endless array of tile is available at Virginia Tile, Suite 100; Beaver Tile and Stone, Suite 101; Ann Sacks, Suite 91 and Cercan Tile, Suite 94. All tile requires grout, and grout needs to be re-sealed regularly for optimal stain protection. Plus, depending on the type of tile you choose, you may need to re-seal the tile itself as well.

NATURAL STONE
Each slab of natural stone features it's own unique colors
and veining so a sample you see in a showroom may look different from what is installed in
your home. It's wise to choose the actual slab you want so there are no surprises. Stone often
needs to be seamed and is normally sealed to protect it from stains.

GRANITE: A popular choice for today's kitchens and baths, granite comes in a variety of colors and
patterns. There are five classes of granite based on scarcity, with one being most readily available
(therefore, least expensive) and five being the most scarce. Granite is fairly porous and should be
re-sealed periodically to keep it looking like new. Though usually finished to a glossy sheen, granite
is also available in a matte finish.

MARBLE: More porous than granite and less stain-resistant, marble is often a better choice for a
bath than a kitchen countertop. If used in a kitchen, you need to be diligent about resealing annually.

	Soapstone
	Cambria Natural Quartz Surface

SOAPSTONE: A rich, dark stone, soapstone is frequently seen as countertops in schools and labs since it is not affected by alkalis or acids. To retain its dark richness, soapstone should be treated with mineral oil twice a year. However, it is not necessary to use oil or sealers and the stone will take on its own natural patina over time. Usually matte-finished, soapstone is also available in a glossy finish.

NATURAL QUARTZ SURFACE (ENGINEERED STONE)
Quartz surfaces are made up of about 97% natural quartz mixed with polymers and epoxy to create a strong, non-porous material. It requires no sealing and is very stain and scratch resistant. Cambria®, the only quartz product produced in the United States, is certified by NSF International and has a high sanitary rating making it naturally safe for the home. Caesarstone® is another brand of natural quartz surface that is produced in Israel. Both are available at Innerspace Design Group, Suite 95. DuPont Zodiaq® natural quartz surface is available in the Resource Center, Suite 84.

STAINLESS STEEL
A contemporary, non-porous material, stainless steel is frequently
found in professional kitchens. It is stain-resistant and is the only
material that can be safely bleached.

COPPER
One of the more expensive countertop materials, copper is
available as either hammered or smooth. Copper is very beautiful
but high maintenance, it must be treated regularly to retain its color
and shine.

	Bisazza Glass Countertop Material

WOOD
Though many woods are suitable for countertops, maple is preferred since it has a tighter grain and is less porous. Wood requires periodic refinishing to protect it from stains and water damage.

GLASS
A new material for countertops, glass is becoming more popular. Glass can be processed into a variety of shapes, colors and textures. It is non-porous, extremely sanitary, heat-resistant and requires little maintenance. Bisazza, available at Beaver Tile and Stone, Suite 101 and Ann Sacks, Suite 91, offers glass slabs as thin a 1/4" that can be layered over other materials for an interesting effect. VitraMax, available at SGO Designer Glass, Suite 104B, offers thick countertops constructed of recycled glass that add real drama to your kitchen or bath.

SOLID SURFACING
Solid surfacing are seamless man-made materials. DuPont's Corian® is probably the best known
solid surfacing material. Another brand name is Meganite™, both are available in the Resource
Center, Suite 84. Available in a wide variety of colors, solid surfacing can have seamless
backsplashes and inline sinks.

CONCRETE
Concrete offers texture and detailing, and can be tinted to virtually any color you can imagine.
However, it is extremely porous and must be re-sealed regularly to protect it from stains. Since
countertop concrete is not the same as outdoor concrete, it is important to research concrete
countertop installers thoroughly.

LAMINATE
The most economical material for countertops, laminate comes in a wide variety of colors but is not
scratch or heat resistant. The Wilsonart® and Nevamar™ brands are sampled in the Resource
Center, Suite 84.

As you can see, there are many options available for countertops. Can't decide which is right for
you? Contact our Design Connection service and let an experienced professional designer help
you. The first hour is complimentary and you'll get the help you need to make the right decision for
your home or office.

Most information courtesy John Duncan, Innerspace Design Group, Suite 95.