They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home. After all, it’s where most of the action happens, and nothing bears the brunt more than your kitchen countertops. That’s why you need to select not just a visually pleasing material but also a functional one. Discussed herein are five of the best kitchen countertop materials in Maryland.
Popular Countertop Materials Among Maryland Homeowners
Working towards a luxurious looking kitchen? Focused on bringing the outdoors into your culinary space using natural materials? If you answered yes to either question, this list has something for you.
1. Granite
Granite exudes elegance; you’ll want to invest in it if you want to add a luxurious touch to your kitchen. Since it’s made from natural stone, granite comes in a wide range of unique grains and color variations. Moreover, it’s a perfect addition for both rustic and contemporary homes.
However, aesthetic appeal isn’t the only thing it brings to the table. Granite is incredibly durable and can handle hot pots and pans without developing as much as a scratch. Therefore, enhancing the value of your home.
Pros:
- Incredibly resilient
- Heat-resistant
- Available in a number of natural patterns and colors
Cons:
- Quite costly
- Requires sealing
2. Quartz
Partially because it requires low maintenance, quartz is among the most popular countertop materials for homeowners. Above all, it’s available in an array of finishes. Consequently, allowing you to choose a color that best fits the kitchen décor.
Pros:
- Excellent durability
- Stain-resistant
- Comes in a variety of finishes
- Charming, natural appearance
Cons:
- Relatively bulky
- Can be expensive
3. Ceramic Tile
Image Source: Pinterest
Ceramic tile strikes a sweet spot between elegance, stability, and affordability. Certainly, it’s easy to install, allowing you to potentially skip installation costs if you are a DIY enthusiast. What’s more, ceramic tile for your home is extremely durable.
Pros:
- Strikes a balance between elegance and thriftiness
- Easy to install; perfect DIY project
- Heat-resistant
- Comes in a diverse range of unique colors and designs
Cons:
- Grout lines can be a headache to clean
- Custom tile designs can hike up the price
- Can break under excessive force
4. Laminate Countertops
Quartz and granite are excellent countertop materials. But, laminate kitchen countertops are your best option if you’re working on a budget. Laminate countertops used to have a bad rap due to their lack of sturdiness, however the modern version is reliable and long-lasting. That is to say, a laminate countertop will stand the test of time. Just as long as you remember not to set down a hot pan or forget your cutting board.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Stain-resistant
- Mimics the appearance of natural materials, such as marble or wood
- Easy to maintain
Cons:
- Made of plastic—not heat resistant and easily scratched
- Difficult to repair if damaged
5. Butcher Block
Want a countertop material that eliminates the need for a chopping board without sacrificing aesthetics? If so, butcher block is a perfect fit for the description. It adds a warm, rustic appeal to your kitchen. Even more, with a quality varnish, you’ll never have to worry about stains or heat damage. Not to mention, you can install it yourself.
Pros:
- More sustainable than other materials
- Can serve as a chopping board
- Boasts antibacterial properties
- Visually pleasing, especially for rustic homes
Cons:
- Prone to stains and heat damage without proper upkeep
- Also, requires regular sealing
Get Your Dream Kitchen Today
In short, countertops can make or break the ambiance of your kitchen. They set the tone and feel of your space, which is why it’s important to select a material that is both functional and striking. Of course, choosing from the endless options available can be a little overwhelming. Fortunately, you don’t have to do it alone.
Finally, get in touch with our team at Friel Lumber Company for tips on how to go about the process. Also, feel free to browse our wide selection of top-shelf countertop materials.
