Getting A New Kitchen Countertop

Photo from www.trendir.com.

Some kitchen counters are just plain ugly. That shouldn’t be–it takes all the charm out of the kitchen! Planning to remodel? Let’s talk about the things you need to take into consideration.
Kitchen counters are more than decorations–they’re highly functional, and no kitchen is really a kitchen without them. From cooking to storing to serving, it forms the platform from which nearly all food-prep activities take place.

So, let’s suppose we’re going to shop for new counters. What do you need to
think about? Well, appearance is one, probably the first one you thought of. But there are other things to consider as well, such as size, materials, features, add-ons and more.

Let’s start with the surface of the countertop itself. You have two main choices: hard surface and pre-formed.

Hard surface counters are made from materials like granite, quartz or solid-surface (a synthetic compound). If you decide to go with granite or quartz, do be careful, as these materials are very heavy. In fact, you might be better off getting a professional to handle them for you. On the positive side, these types of counters are growing in popularity! So if you’re interested in following the trends, look at hard surface counters in your nearest hardware store (like Stewart’s).

Pre-formed counters are much easier to install if you’re an amateur. They come in a number of standard lengths, and usually include rounded edges and a backsplash. If you thought they come with pre-cut holes, think again. You’ll need to get someone to cut the openings for the sink and plumbing–or grit your teeth and do it yourself.

So now that we know about counter types, let’s look at how they’re mounted. Again, you have two options: conventional and island. Conventional work surfaces are installed on top of base cabinets and pushed up flush against the walls. Because of that, only the parts of the edging open to view are finished.

Kitchen islands are …just that: islands. They stand free in the middle of your kitchen (or whichever room you want to put them in). Since they aren’t placed against any walls, all of the edging around them needs to be finished.

Speaking of edging, they come in a wide variety of styles, including bevel, triple pencil, ogee and bullnose (yes, we’re laughing too). Then, you’ve got the backsplash, which is what protects your nice, white walls from the wild gestures of your 3-year-old toddler who hasn’t yet learned that ketchup is squirted on fries, not into the air. These can be made from tile, glass, stainless steel …you name it!

Well, there’s your basic guide to getting yourself a lovely new kitchen countertop. Be sure to ask for more information in-store when you go to buy! If you’re in Jamaica, stop by a Stewart’s Hardware location anytime.