When picking out your countertops for your bathroom you are presented with many choices. The best way to sort through all the options is to know exactly what materials you have to choose from. Things to keep in mind are your budget, durability, maintenance, added value and beauty. There are many high-end countertops that are beautiful but are known to stain easily! There are also those that are durable but boring and easily replicated.
Marble
Marble countertops are an expensive option and they can be durable, however, they are known for flaws and it can be stained. Patina is also a problem with marble because you cannot escape it. The film that will develop on the surface happens after time and even if the marble is sealed and cleaned. When you purchase marble countertops, you are adding a tremendous value to the home and there is no denying the beauty it brings to a bathroom.
Laminate
Laminate countertops are a lot less expensive then marble and are very durable. As far as bathrooms go, laminate is used most often. Laminate is manmade and can be easily cleaned. It is resistant to water and stains, however, the laminate can wear thin and dull over time. It is also known to burn when a hot pan is placed on the surface. Laminate is durable, but it can still be chipped and dent which cannot be easily fixed. You can find laminate countertops in different colors and styles with smooth to leather texture. Laminate does not add that much value to the home as it is manmade and easily obtained.
Tile
Ceramic tile countertops are very durable and can be less expensive than the high-end countertops. Even with the small price tag, it looks great and can add value to the home. There are problems with dirt building up in the grout as well as mold. You can seal the grout to protect your counters from appearing dirty, but it will not last forever.
Wood
Wood countertops can bring a rustic look into the bathroom and it is quite unique as not many bathrooms have this particular material. It is beautiful, versatile and really easy to install. Wood does have a drawback as it can get water damage and can be really hard to keep clean. You would need to seal the wood to keep it looking good and to function properly as a bathroom countertop. You will want to make sure to seal the sides, as it will be more susceptible to standing water that will cause the wood to rot. This unique countertop can bring value to your home if installed correctly, as it is unique and not a lot of people have seen this treatment in a bathroom. Just make sure to have a professional install it and the varnish.
Acrylic:
Acrylic countertops are made of a thick piece of acrylic laid on top of particle board creating a solid surface. Because the countertops are built on top of particle board, it does not need any built in support. Acrylic is stain resistant, easy to clean and easy to fix in case of damage. Acrylic is said to look somewhat plastic and reminds people of linoleum causing many people to opt for a different countertop. Acrylic is also expensive and vulnerable to scratched, holes and even knife cuts.
Granite
Granite countertops are a designer favorite for a bathroom. Each slab of granite is unique as it is mined straight from the earth. This means you will want to see the actual slab that you are buying before you place it, as samples will be different from the actual piece. Granite is very durable and it can take a lot of punishment. If your bathroom is one that is used very often you will want a countertop that can handle extra use. You will need to seal the countertops every six months to one year, but sealing is not very hard and can be done by even the most novice of do it yourselfers. Granite can be expensive, but most times, you can get a slap for a lot less than the high-end acrylic or marble countertops. Granite countertops will add value to your home as it is widely sought after and it can last a lifetime.
Picking the perfect countertop is not always easy, but armed with information regarding the different types of materials you can use the job should be easier. Most surfaces have both pros and cons, but the clear winner most of the time will be granite countertops. It is the most used surface in todays designed bathrooms and it really can stand the test of time. The durability and value it brings to your bathroom is worth the price alone. Choose your counters wisely and improve the overall look of your home by purchasing the perfect countertop for your family.