The kitchen countertop is an important part of a kitchen renovation.The aesthetic impact of countertops is dramatic, but they are also very functional.Good countertops should be able to resist spills and contact with hot cookware.It's important to learn how to buy a kitchen countertop.The right countertop will fit your budget and lifestyle.
Step 1: Determine your budget.
When choosing a countertop, your budget is the most important constraint.It costs over 3 times as much to make a high-end material like granite, than it does for a low-cost one.Measure your countertops to find out how much you should budget for your job.
Step 2: Take your aesthetic preferences into account.
All countertops will fulfill their function by providing you with a work surface; where they primarily differ, however, are their aesthetic impact.Synthetic and natural countertops are available in a wide range of finishes.Solid surface tops can be purchased in almost any color or pattern.Natural tops like wood and granite can have different looks.Consider your kitchen's other finishes if you don't know what you want.A more cohesive kitchen aesthetic can be achieved by coordinating the countertop with the cabinets, wall, and back splash.If you will be selling your home soon, you should go for a more subdued countertop finish.Potential buyers may be turned off by loud finishes.
Step 3: Pick a material for your countertops.
This is the most important decision when buying a countertop.The appearance and price of materials will be different.A veneer is affixed to an engineered wood core.The most inexpensive and lightweight materials are these tops.They are easier to install than other materials because they are easy to cut and maneuver.There are many colors and faux finishes to choose from.The countertops are made from two different materials.If stained or damaged, they can be sanded.They fit together better than laminate countertops.Granitecountertops are some of the most durable on the market.The natural beauty of stone makes them impervious to high heat and scratches.These tops have to be sealed periodically because they are porous.The natural finish of wood countertops can be stained, oiled, or Waxed.They must be sealed periodically.Installation and upkeep of wood countertops are easier than that of stone tops.
Step 4: The countertops should be purchased.
Home improvement stores, interior finish dealers, and sometimes directly from the supplier are some of the places where countertops can be purchased.You will have to decide if you want to buy pre-finished pieces or custom-made countertops.The least expensive option is pre-finished pieces and blanks.If necessary, these pieces can be cut to length on site.Pre-finished pieces are not the best option if you don't want to cut the countertops yourself.It is more expensive to have your order sent to a fabricator.You can purchase the tops from a dealer, have a professional take the measurements of your kitchen, and then have the countertops made for you.It is possible for dealers to put you in touch with an installer.