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Written by James Mahoney
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Thursday, 19 October 2006 |
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Word Count: 522 7 Materials For Creating The Perfect Kitchen Countertop
Let us take a look at 7 of the most popular kitchen countertop materials
being used today:
Granite - A natural stone, granite is a popular choice for its classic beauty
and durability. Granite is the hardest and densest of the natural stones. It can
create a kitchen
countertop that is extremely scratch resistant and can keep its luster longer
than most other materials. granite slabs are the most expensive of all kitchen
countertop surfaces, although it is still considered to be a very practical
material in that it is
virtually indestructible.
Marble Another natural stone, marble is considered to be the height of
elegance and will last longer than most kitchens. It is however, is very
expensive and requires some care: acidic foods such as orange juice will etch
the finished surface of a marble kitchen countertop.
Slate Because of it richness and beauty slate is usually used in interior
applications such as kitchen countertops, bathroom sinks or fireplace surrounds.
It can be used in either modern or traditional kitchens as well as in
combination with marble.
Slate is durable and strong material, and can withstand hard use. It is
less expensive than marble.
Concrete This is one of the biggest trends in kitchen countertops today. It is
a good look for clean, industrial and contemporary kitchen designs. Available in
pre formed sections or poured and formed on-site. Concrete is a good material
for
unusually shaped counters. Concrete kitchen countertops are expensive, require a
sealant and must be treated with care. The countertop can crack if the concrete
should contract. Concrete can be stained any color. The most popular color is a
natural
gray tone. The top layer can be finished as desired.
Corian This is a solid surface material that first became popular in
the 1990s It is highly recommended by kitchen countertop experts. It is a
totally man made product and is not porous. As a solid surface it can easily be
repaired if scratched or burned.
Stainless Steel The Advantages of stainless steel include very hygienic, easy
to clean, has ability to stand up to extreme wear and heat.
Stainless steel can provide a great look for an ultra modern kitchen. Some
disadvantages with stainless is that it can be noisy and that scratches can
develop.
Tile Tile surfaces can be tough, hard-wearing, takes hot pans, heat and stain
resistant as well as beautiful. There are many types of tiles including ceramic,
porcelain, quarry, glass, natural stone and mosaic. Available in many colors,
sizes and
textures. It has good design flexibility. Tile can often be
used for trim or backsplashes. The downside of tile is that the grouts can be
easily stained. Also the tiles can become chipped or cracked.
James Mahoney is the owner of Kitchen Designers Idea.com. Learn about
today's kitchen design ideas by visiting his site at
http://www.kitchendesignersideas.com. If you liked this article and would
want to subscribe to his information packed newsletter visit:
http://www.kitchendesignersideas.com
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