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Studio Blog

September 22nd

Countertop Options

There are many options out there for countertops, but which one is the best for you?

Corian: is very durable, stain-resistant, has solid color and comes in many colors, patterns and finishes, although matte is the best to avoid scratches. But be careful because it can be damaged by hot pans.

Laminate: is also very durable and stain-resistant and comes in numerous colors, patterns and textures. Laminate countertops have many downsides: it can be damaged by hot surfaces; it tends to show dirt easily and will scratch over time; it can mildew and is not repairable. Although this may be one of the cheaper options, in the long run it will not be the smartest investment for your money.

Silestone: This product is very hard and durable and resists stains, scratches, burns and even bacteria. There are many different color options and it is very easy to clean. The only downside is that the seams are visible. It is very affordable so if you have a small space to fill then this is a great option.

Soapstone: This product is very dense, durable and resists stains, water, heat and overall wear. The greatest part is that each piece is very unique. The only downsides are that you many need to occasionally oil it and that is can be scratched.

Simplicity: Not many people know about this product. It is extremely hard, durable with very little maintenance. It resists stains, scratches, heat and bacteria and does come in many different colors. The downside is that the seams are visible, so again it would be best in small areas.

Granite: This is the most well known product used for countertops. It is very hard, durable, and resistant to stains, scratches and heat. Each piece is completely unique. The downsides to this product are that sometimes some finishes are hard to clean, the seams can be visible. It may stain or mildew if not treated properly, and does need to be polished regularly.

Butcher Block: This is a very inexpensive option with a great warm wood look, but can be damaged by hot surfaces. It needs to be cleaned and oiled often. It is also can be dented, scratched and damaged by water.

Stainless Steel: A very contemporary option. This product is very durable and easy to clean with resistance to heat and stains. This product does scratch easily and shoes spots. Some say that it can be a noisier option but sleek and clean looking at the same time. It is a great option for that contemporary look.

Concrete: A new product out on the market is cast concrete. It is very durable, heat resistant and comes in many colors and textures. You can even have seashells or any other object embedded in the countertop. This product must be sealed often and can typically be expensive. It is important to make sure the person or company installing this product has had experience. Concrete can give a very contemporary, urban or industrial look to your space. It is becoming extremely popular.

These are all great countertop options, all with their pros and cons- think about what you want out of your countertop as well as how much you can afford. If you are having trouble deciding on a material to choose for your bathroom or kitchen renovation, Tracy Lynn Studio can always help you make that choice.