Add Value To A Home With Countertops
The Ins and Outs of Countertops
A kitchen transformation is not complete without choosing the best countertops for your clients’ needs. Make sure you are recommending the right surface for their preferred aesthetic, usage and budget.
Learn more about the pros and cons of the most popular countertops.
Choosing Between Granite and Quartz
Granite is a naturally occurring rock that is formed when molten magma crystallizes. It can contain different minerals to give added depth to the already intricate rock.
Granite is best known for being a highly durable, heat resistant and luxurious material. It invokes elegance and can increase the property value of a home. This countertop is perfect for the client that wants extravagance.
Granite comes in a variety of prices that depend on the grade and complexity of the cut needed. While granite is one of the most expensive countertops, it also is long lasting when treated and sealed correctly.
We recommend that you buy all of your granite needed for a job at one time to ensure consistency in the project. Granite can be difficult to match if more is needed at a later date.
Quartz, while very similar to the look and style of granite, can be found naturally and as an engineered stone. It is a great alternative for the client that wants the luxury of granite but desires a lower price point and less maintenance. Quartz is incredibly strong and is not damaged by staining, heat or acid.
Like granite, there are thousands of color options and different price options. Overall, quartz is less expensive than granite due to the engineered aspect. This is a great countertop option for a client that needs a durable surface and unique high quality at a lower price point.
Lower Price Tag, Higher Maintenance
Wood countertops offer a beautiful alternative to stone. A butcher block countertop or reclaimed wood can be traditional, old-world or modern depending on the backsplash.
One perk is that wood countertops can be sanded and resealed as needed but it is susceptible to water damage if not maintained. Like all types of wood, price varies on type and grade. While generally cheaper than granite and quartz, wood countertops can get expensive if your client wants a specialty variety or custom cut.
Concrete and metal make for an interesting mix that is perfect for a client that is up to date on every trend. Try blending the materials for a truly custom look.
Concrete countertops are a surprising surface for a kitchen but allow for a minimalist or modern aesthetic. Concrete can be acid stained or texturized depending on your clients’ preferences.
Concrete is a cheaper option for a completely custom countertop. Be aware that concrete does require regular maintenance so it might not be the perfect fit for the constantly busy client.
Solid surface countertops are a great substitute for stone since the man-made material can cover a lot of area at a lower cost. Unlike many of the other options, solid surfaces have a more seamless installation process.
The potential downsides to solid surface countertops are that they are more susceptible to heat damage and very difficult to repair. This material is a great choice for clients that need a lower price point but don’t envision rough usage.
Between man-made, refurbished, naturally occurring, and engineered materials, there are thousands of countertop options for your clients. Utilizing the pros and cons of each countertop, you can feel confident recommending the best countertops to fit your clients needs.
Contact Myers today to find out more about what we carry and to get advice from our experts.