Are you tempted to call in the granite installers or quartz countertop contractors for high-end countertops, but have a limited budget? You do not need to worry as there are many inexpensive countertop options which will make your kitchen stand out and look luxurious.
Best kitchen countertop options
Although granite installers and quartz countertop contractors will never agree that the inexpensive options will work out well but the below listed options are also very durable, sleek, low maintenance and will surely make your kitchen look high end.
Concrete Countertop
A very affordable option and you can even do it yourself. When you think of concrete, then the pavements come to your mind, but it is not that. Concrete is made from cement, water, and sandstones which gives it’s a hard and solid structure. It gives a very rustic appeal to your kitchen. Many pigments can be added to give unique colors to the concrete countertops.
Tiles Countertop
When you have budget constraints, then tile countertops are the best options. Tiles come in a variety of colors, patterns, and designs. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most preferred by homeowners as they are the most affordable. There are also many tike options available which can replicate the look for marble and granite which putting a dent in your pocket. Natural stone tiles also give your kitchen a high-end look. Tiles are stain-resistant, scratch resistant and also heat resistant and are very durable. They are easy to clean and maintain and if any tile chips or cracks then you can easily replace it.
Wood or Butcher’s Block
Wood is an inexpensive as well a very versatile option. It looks good for a traditional kitchen and can also make any modern kitchen stand out. There are many types of wood available, some cost the same as the expensive granite. You can choose according to your budget. Wood countertops are very durable but need to be sealed yearly and waxed monthly as they porous and not stain and scratch resultant. If there are any cracks or scratches then they can be easily sanded away. Wood is not heat resistant so you will have to use heat pads before placing any hot pans and pots. Also, liquid spills should be wipes and cleaned immediately as they may cause stains in wood.
Stainless Steel Countertop
Surely no one can deny the exquisite look of stainless steel. Stainless steel is best for commercial kitchen s as it is low maintenance and quite durable. Stainless steel is scratch resistant, heat resistant and stain resistant, but the only problem is the fingerprints. So, you will have to wipe it clean regularly. Although stainless steel is not very cheap if you use in a commercial kitchen or also use it as a stand-up counter, then it will surely fit within your budget. Stainless steel gives off a shine and looks good in any kind of kitchen, whether conventional or modern.
Formica Countertop
These are sheets placed on top wooden and solid surfaces. Formica is also very low maintenance and comes in a variety of colors and designs. Many textured designs are also available and it can also imitate the luxurious marble at very low rates. Formica can be chipped and cracked and goes through wear and tear if not cared for. You will need to get it sealed once a year and also take care in using sharp knives and placing hot pans and pots. Use heating pad and cutting board instead.
Laminate Countertop
Laminate is the most affordable of countertops and thanks to new and improved technology, it can mimic the look of the most expensive marble, granite, and quartz and no one can tell the difference. It is made by layers of plastic which are attached and bonded to a solid wood surface. It is light in weight so does not require a very heavy cabinet as a base. Also, it is quite durable but is prone to scratches, stains, and burns so you have to be careful. However, you can get it sealed yearly to increase its longevity. It is available in different colors. If you get it replicated like granite or quartz then surely you would not need to call your granite installers durham nc or quartz countertop contractors.
