HomeWise.ie
Ireland's Home & Garden Search Engine
   


Seller Signup...

Quality Service, Seller or Tradesperson? Sign Up Now!




Home & Garden Articles


Kitchen Counters - Essential to Your Kitchen

Sat 24 Feb 2007 - 15:43

Kitchen Counters - Essential to Your Kitchen
By Ken Wilssens

For a totally new look for your present kitchen, consider excellent kitchen counters. If you are building your new kitchen from scratch, you already know how essential kitchen counters can be. From their color to the construction material, kitchen counter options are numerous and can set the atmosphere for your kitchen environment.

Kitchen counters come in various construction materials, including granite, concrete, limestone, wood, marble, quartz, slate, silestone and even stainless steel (which can be painted another color to fit your kitchen preferences!)

The ideal counter is one that is non-porous, of solid material construction and is stain and scratch proof for a durable, long-term existence. A variety of colors and styles will ensure that you get what you want, no matter your kitchen theme. Nonetheless, you want your kitchen counters to look magnificent and be great inexpensive additions to your kitchen environment.

The 3 basic kitchen counter production materials are:

Stone, including granite, marble, limestone, quartz, Jerusalem stone
Laminate
Solid Surface
Tile
Concrete
Stainless Steel

Stone has become one of the most popular selections in the past few years due to its porous nature, you can stick hot pots directly on its surface and it will not absorb the damaging effects.

Laminate usually consists of a surface layer of material over a plywood or particleboard base. Its style is generally loved due to its easy upkeep and daily cleaning, but be forewarned that the material does chip and you will have to treat it carefully.

Solid surface feels like stone and can be easily manipulated to fit your kitchen sink and other appliances. On the other hand, solid surface can crack while cooling after a hot pan has been placed on it.

Tile is a wonderful option if you want a more decorative, creative touch to your kitchen. Handpainted tiles can exhibit brilliant colors and beautiful designs. The grout can become stained and difficult to clean and this counter's uneven surface may make daily cooking activities (such as rolling dough) impossible.

Concrete is much stronger than other natural options. It can appear in a wide range of colors and can be transformed to your kitchen needs. If you cut on a concrete counter, however, it will leave marks.

Stainless steel is the number one choice for professional kitchens. This material is cool to the touch, won't stain, and is easy to clean. Stainless steel will dent if not attached properly and will show fingerprints and scratches.

Alternative countertop materials are also available, such as those made from recycled materials if you are more community-conscious. No matter your countertop selection, choose the perfect kitchen counters that will reflect your aesthetic sensibilities.

For lots of information on designing a kitchen and other kitchen remodeling related topics, visit Kitchen Spot at http://www.kitchens-spot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Wilssens
http://EzineArticles.com/?Kitchen-Counters---Essential-to-Your-Kitchen&id=466831


Looking for information on Carpentry, Find a supplier at HomeWise.ie

back to Carpentry articles
back to all home & garden articles