Countertop Options for Kitchens and Bathrooms

Published by: Elizabeth Gormley
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

In general, there are two rooms in the home in which you’ll find countertops: the kitchen and the bathroom. But, what’s good in one might be disastrous in the other. Kitchen countertops need to be durable and functional; bathroom countertops can be dainty and a bit more fragile. Think, when was the last time you cut a loaf of bread or beat a cutlet in the bathroom? Also, bathrooms are like fingerprints—some are strikingly similar, but no two are identical. As a result, most bathroom countertops are custom made, so design choices tend to run the gamut. The kitchen countertops take much more abuse.
    In short, granite countertops are the best, and are appropriate for either room. Elegant and strong, granite withstands high heat and comes in a range of almost 3,000 colors. It’s a natural stone guaranteed to last a lifetime. Installing granite countertops instantly increases the value of your home by quite a bit. The downside to granite is the price—it’s the most expensive on the market. However, it’s getting more reasonable due to its enormous popularity. Be careful cutting on granite, as it has the second-highest hardness rating next to diamonds. Use a chopping block because granite will dull your best culinary knife.
    Ceramic tile countertops also work in both the kitchen and the bathroom. Tile takes heat well, and offers a myriad of design options. Imagine a stenciled country pattern for a quaint kitchen, or fun tropical fish on the tiles in the kids’ bathroom. Tiles can be ceramic, porcelain, or glass, and most are relatively inexpensive. Many people complain about grout lines that stain easily. One solution is to choose a colored grout, not a white one. Again, extra caution should be used with tiled kitchen counters, as some types chip or crack easier than others.
    Wood countertops have a warming effect in the kitchen, but their water sensitivity makes them impractical for the bathroom. Maple and oak are the most common hardwoods, and give the kitchen a homey, butcher-block functional feel. Wood is easy to clean and it can be resealed as many times as you like. Scratches should be oiled or sealed as they occur. Water stains can accumulate if the wood is not sealed properly.
    There are many solid-surface countertops that are designed to look like natural stone, but are synthetic. These practical options can be found under several different brand names, generally custom-made to suit either the kitchen or bathroom. Because they’re solid, any scratches or nicks can be sanded out. These countertops are very user-friendly and easy to clean. However, some are more vulnerable to heat and stains than others. Solid-surface countertops are ubiquitous, so it’s best to do all your homework on specific brands and materials before making a decision based on style or color.

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