Kitchen Countertop Ideas - Beautifying Cooking Space

Decor

oi-Anjana NS

By Anjana Ns

Tuesday, July 12, 2011, 12:57

Kitchen Countertops or worktops are an integral part of the kitchen design. This offers a wide variety of choices to make your kitchen look classy. Whatever the choice, hefty kitchen countertops, about 37 inches is most avidly asked for. Currently, we will discuss on the kitchen countertop ideas and about countertop materials. Take a look.

Kitchen Countertop Materials And Ideas -

1. Granite is groovy: It is the most common stone used for worktops. It is quarried worldwide with colors and patterns that reveal the region and the geological conditions. Each slab is unique, with random and inconsistent patterns for a great character and look. It is highly durable, it doesn't scratch or burn, and it keeps its color. Unfortunately granite is a very expensive material though the finished look is often well worth the cost.
2. Laminate is popular: Though expensive it is a very popular choice for kitchen countertops and available in a variety of colors and textures. It isn't that hard wearing and can get scratched or burned, and gets dirty very easily. It is not built to last. If you do choose laminate you can protect your surfaces with trivets and chopping boards.
3. Wood is traditional: It gives a great look and adds character to your kitchen. On the countertop, however, it is highly susceptible to scratching and cutting. Hot pans will burn it or leave marks, and it can be unhygienic if meat or poultry is prepared on it. Oak, maple, cherry, red beech, walnut, teak, and mahogany are all hardwoods favored for countertop applications.
4. Stainless steal is classy: Often associated with professional kitchens, stainless steel is stylish and contemporary. Steel is highly durable and can be shaped in many ways to fit your kitchen. The backsplash and the sink can be made out of the same piece of steel, ensuring that there are no awkward corners or gaps. It is hygienic and is the only surface that can be safely bleached.
5. Quartz is cool: Granite, granite, granite may be the surface of the century, but quartz is the word of the moment. Quartz delivers a great natural look to any kitchen. It is highly durable being resistant to scratches, stains and heat. However this flexibility comes at a price. Quartz surfaces are hygienic because the material is non-porous and so bacteria have nowhere to hide. Three brands to note of are Zodiaq, Cambria and Silestone.
6. Glass is contemporary: Glass is losing its china doll status. The highly polished surface is available in almost limitless colors, shapes, thickness and textures. Its non-porous nature keeps it stain-proof and hygienic, and it can handle hot pots.