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Countertops
There is an ever increasing array of materials
used for countertops. The softer, less expensive
materials (e.g., laminates) can be cut to
fit by the do-it-yourselfer, while the top
end (solid surfaces and stones) need to be
pre-cut and most likely installed by a professional
(a countertop slab of granite takes a team
just to lift it in place). Pick the type
of material you will be comfortable working
on (i.e., not worried about damaging), that
cleans easily, looks nice, and fits your
budget.
Laminates
Perhaps the most common surface materials
are laminates -- a plastic coating over particle
board -- because of it's easy to cut, install,
and clean and is inexpensive. However, laminates
can be scratched and scorched and the surface
can chip and peel.
Solids & Composites
Solid polyester or acrylic resins
like Corian
are very durable (scratches and
burns can
be sanded out) but also very
expensive; they
have the added advantage of having
decorative
edges. Cultured marble (a marble
dust aggregate)
is popular for bathroom countertops.
To learn
more about concrete and quartz
countertops,
which are also a composite rather
than solid
quartz, visit these pages:
Natural Stones
Stones, like marble and granite,
add elegance
to any room; granite is more
durable and
stain resistant than marble,
but both need
to be sealed to prevent stains.
To learn
more, visit these pages:
Butcherblock, Stainless Steel, Teak, and
Tile
If you like tile, a tiled surface gives a
country look and is durable (unless you break
a tile), but the grout lines make it harder
to keep clean. Other traditional looks are
butcher block (small strips of wood glued
together) and stainless steel (for that industrial
kitchen look). Or, you may want to try teakwood,
for its wonderfully warm patina. To learn
more, visit these pages:
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