Choices, Choices, Choices- Countertops

You are ready to purchase or remodel your mountain getaway in Winter Park. One of the decisions to make is what type of countertop should you select? With so many material selections and price points, not to mention color choices, no wonder it is confusing. While no material is perfect for every application, we can simplify the material selections.

The old standby is Formica. It was the hottest material is the 1950's for countertops and now comes is a variety of colors. This man made material is prone to staining and scratching. It's updated cousin is laminate which not only comes in a plethora of colors, but also in varying textures. Although laminates resists stains and heat damage, it can be easily scratched. Prices range from $10-$30/sq ft.

Wood countertops come in and out of style. There are a variety of wood types available from light to dark colors like white oak to walnut and exotic woods such as tigerwood, teak and highly renewable sources like bamboo. Wood is typically used as an accent countertop. Wood must be maintained and since it is porous, cleanliness is a major concern. Wood is heat resistant. Because wood is soft, scratches can be easily removed, however, most homeowners prefer to keep the scratches and imperfections as it adds character and charm to their home. Wood countertops range from $35-$100/sq ft.

Countertops made of manufactured tile or porcelain are very very heat resistant and come in every imaginable color from solids to natural looking stone and granite. Although these ceramic materials are very hard and non porous (especially if glazed), they can chip. Clients must maintain the grout as grout can easily stain. Ceramic tiles come in various sizes, but typical dimensions are 4", 6" and 12" tiles. Costs range from $10-$30/sq ft.

Granite countertops are still the most popular choice for high end homes. Granite can be purchased in typical tile sizes or be custom cut for your counter tops. Granite is very durable and can take the heat. All natural materials should be periodically sealed. Granite is typically polished to a brilliant finish, but new textures trends include "leathered" and "antique". Edge finishes, such as bull nosing can dramatically increase the price. There are a variety of colors including black, green, blue and red and combinations of every hue. Patterns vary from solids to abstract. Costs range from $50-$200/sq ft.

There are a number of solid surface man made materials. Some contain 99% natural materials such as quartz and some contain 99% man made materials that look natural. These solid surface materials also come in a variety of colors and are typically custom sized to your kitchen needs. These easy to clean materials are non porous and manufacturers tout their cleanliness. Prices range from $75-150/ sq ft.

What should use choose? Your budget, style and usage will guide you. Mixing materials and colors is a trend that many designers are incorporating into kitchens. You may decide to use natural stone in high visiblity and high use areas and mandmade materials in low use and low visibility areas. Choose what you like and are comfortable with.

If in doubt, contact a certified and qualified designer. There are several here in Winter Park that can help guide you.