WHICH COUNTERTOP MATERIAL IS BEST FOR YOUR PROJECT?

WHICH COUNTERTOP MATERIAL IS BEST FOR YOUR PROJECT?

It’s time for interior unit selections and you are unsure as to which countertop material is best for your project.  There are a few factors to take into consideration when making your final decision.

RESEARCH

Competition

Research plays a big part in determining which materials are appropriate for the project.  A competitive analysis will help shed some light on what is being offered at apartment communities in the area.  It also helps to determine what the target market is looking for based on the rent you anticipate to charge.   

Budget

Once the competitive research has been completed, you can begin working on a budget.  The budget itself will help dictate which material will be best for your project.  

UPKEEP

The amount of traffic that the particular area receiving the countertop renovation is a factor to take into consideration when choosing the most applicable material.  Higher traffic areas will call for a more robust surface than, per say, a less populated area of the home.  

COUNTERTOP MATERIAL BREAKDOWN

Laminate is a manufactured product that offers a variety of appearances from rustic to modern.  Maintenance is minimal and it is important to note that this surface is not heat resistant.  Laminate is the most budget-friendly option and perfect for high traffic areas.

The beauty of butcher block countertops is their natural appearance.  They are engineered, eco-friendly and perfect for low to medium traffic areas.  Due to the porousness of the wood, it is imperative to seal the countertops to avoid it from drying out and staining.  

Soapstone is a natural product that darkens with age.  It’s rustic appearance, resistance to cracking, and heat resistance make it a popular option.  

Granite has been a popular choice for countertops for quite some time.  Its natural appearance lends to a variety of preferences.  Granite is porous like butcher block countertops, so it does need to be sealed.  Perfect for kitchens, it is heat and scratch resistant.

Quartz, more than likely the most expensive option of the five discussed in this article, is the most durable material available.  Since it is an engineered product, it can be manufactured in almost any color imaginable!  Like granite, it is heat and scratch resistant, along with stain, germs, bacteria, mold and mildew resistant.  

Taking into consideration both what the market is looking for and your budget will aid in determining which countertop material is best for your project.