There is something about the natural beauty that grabs and holds the attention of homeowners. Whether they are looking for flooring, shower tiles, backsplash materials, or kitchen countertops, natural has been, and likely always will be, the number one choice of homeowners. The question is, perhaps, what is it about natural countertop materials that draw this attention to themselves, what types are there, and what are the benefits and drawbacks to a few of the types different types. All of these questions, and maybe a few more, will be answered for you here. The hope is that you will soon understand why it is so that natural countertops are the number one choice of homeowners.
Types of Natural Countertop Materials
The first question many people have when looking for countertop materials is what types are considered to be natural. This can be answered simply by saying any material that is not manufactured in a warehouse. While this is true, there are some more specific answers that can be given, including the fact that there are wood and stone countertops. While wooden countertops tend to be popular now and again, it is the stone countertops that tend to withstand style design changes.
Benefits & Drawbacks of Several Types of Stone Countertops
The most commonly used stones for countertop material include slate, granite, soapstone, quartz, and marble. Although granite was once considered to be a material that only the ‘rich and famous’ could afford, it is found in more homes across the world than any other natural stone countertop. It is currently more affordable than once believed, and can be found in a wide variety of colors, each of which is dependent on the way the granite was compressed under the earth’s surface.
You will find similar properties in marble and quartz, although these materials tend to be slightly more expensive. Marble, much like granite, is heat resistant, but does not possess the same stain-resistant qualities as granite. Both countertop materials do need to be sealed upon installation, and resealed about every year. Both also require regular cleaning with mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft cloth. In addition, with marble and granite countertops, you do need to avoid the use of harsh chemicals as this can damage the surface.
Soapstone and slate are other natural stone countertop materials. Unlike marble and granite, however, the color choices are limited, only allowing you to choose from green-gray, green, red, purple, and black, or shades closely related to these colors. With marble and granite you can have just about any color you choose, including natural browns, blues, greens, and even white.
One major drawing factor for natural stone countertops is their uniqueness. Because they develop naturally beneath the earth’s surface, no two pieces are alike. Many homeowners are drawn to this idea, knowing that their kitchen – at least the countertops – will be a one-of-a-kind design and color. If you opt for a fabricated countertop, such as laminate, these are all created on a machine, which produces the same pattern, color, and styles over and over again, eliminating the opportunity for being unique.
A Closer Look at Marble
Marble happens to be the particular favorite of those who love to bake. This is because cold marble provides the perfect surface for kneading dough. In addition, it can turn any ordinary kitchen into a visual masterpiece, giving you the feeling that you are walking into a gourmet kitchen each time you step foot into your very own kitchen with marble countertops.
With that said, many designers do warn that marble tends to be a soft material that is prone to staining and chipping. Sealing and proper cleaning – as well as being careful – can prevent these types of damages from occurring. If you really want marble countertops in your home, but are concerned with the idea of easy chipping and staining, consider just an island workspace with a marble top. This will allow you to have the marble look you need and the perfect space for kneading dough, while leaving room for a more durable countertop surface for other food prep activities.
A Closer Look at Granite
As was mentioned, granite is perhaps the most popular natural stone countertop material found in homes today. You end up with a unique countertop that will last a lifetime, increase the value of your home, and give you the durability that you need to perform everyday kitchen duties. Granite, like other natural stone countertop materials, can be custom cut to fit the layout of your kitchen, and with the many colors available, you can design the space around the slab you fall in love with.
As you have discovered, there are many great properties of natural stone countertops, which is why they are the number one choice of homeowners. Not only are they durable, but they are truly elegant, turning a drab kitchen into a fab space in your home.