Here is one of the most commonly heard questions in Bedrock Quartz showrooms: what are the best countertops for my kitchen? This question is certainly tricky. We say that because there is no definitive answer. ‘Best’ is a relative term. What’s best for you and your family may not be best for your neighbors down the street.
As frustrating as that might seem, defining what’s best for you requires figuring out what you need and want and then comparing the options. Here at Bedrock Quartz, our options include granite countertops, marble countertops, and quartz countertops. Our high-end countertops are ideal for just about any kitchen or bath in Utah.
Your Main Choices for Countertops
When you get beyond the brands and marketing information, you quickly discover that you don’t have a lot of material choices. That is not necessarily a bad thing. Having too many choices could make a difficult decision even more so. Still, you do have an adequate number of materials to work with.
Below are your main choices in the 2020s. There are seven of them:
- Natural stone – granite, marble, etc.
- Engineered stone – quartz, silestone, etc.
- Solid surface – acrylic, polyester, etc.
- Plastic laminate – Formica and similar products.
- Ceramic tile.
- Concrete.
- Wood.
Although ceramic tile and wood are both considered timeless options, we don’t see them as much these days because both require a tremendous amount of maintenance. But they are beautiful materials, nonetheless.
For most modern kitchens, natural and engineered stone are near the top of the list. Both cost quite a bit more than solid surface and plastic laminate countertops. But we feel they are worth the investment. Homeowners throughout Utah tend to agree.
How to Make the Best Choice
Now that you know your seven main choices for materials, how do you choose one? How do you make the best possible choice? By considering the following four factors by first ranking them in order of importance:
1. Kitchen Use
If your kitchen gets heavy use (i.e., you are preparing three meals per day, every day) you’re going to need countertops that are tough and resilient. All seven of the materials listed above fit the bill. Still, you need to consider the next variable.
2. Maintenance Requirements
Every countertop material needs at least some maintenance, even if that just means regularly wiping it down and disinfecting it. Some materials require more maintenance to protect against cracks, chips, and burns. How much time and effort do you want to put into the counters?
3. Design Style
Kitchens are one of the most important rooms when it comes time to sell a home. Ask yourself if you have plans to sell within the near future. If so, it’s best to choose a material that represents timeless design. Choosing something that could look dated five or six years down the road could make it more difficult for you to sell at the right price.
4. Your Budget
Unfortunately, every home remodeling project is subject to budget constraints. You only have so much money to spend. If a high-end countertop is a priority regardless of cost, you can look at the most expensive options. If you need to save a little, you may have to look at something less expensive.There is no best countertop for every kitchen. Choosing the right countertop material is all about looking at the big picture. Look at it from every angle and then make a choice based on your needs, wants, and budget. If your choice happens to be marble, granite, or quartz, come see what we have to offer at Bedrock Quartz in one of our Utah showrooms. Contact us or book an appointment today.
