Kitchen Counters: A Materials Overview
by Guest Post on Feb 27, 2010
Kitchen countertops are available in an almost limitless array of materials and colors. Nothing beats granite for durability, stainless steel for a contemporary, functional look, or tile for timeless charm. Below are some of the more common counter surfaces with their respective advantages and disadvantages.
| Material | Advantages | Disadvantages | Care | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate |
|
|
Clean with sponge and nonabrasive cleanser. | $10-20 a linear ft. |
| Tile |
|
|
Sponge clean with household cleanser. To maintain glossy finish, avoid overusing harsh abrasives. | $35-80 linear foot depending on tile selection |
| Marble |
|
|
Wipe clean. Seal with salad oil if used for food preparation; otherwise seal with commercial sealant. |
$40-70 sq. ft. |
| Granite |
|
|
Wipe clean. Reseal periodically. |
$60+ sq. ft. |
| Synthetic stone |
|
|
Clean with sponge and mild cleanser. | $60+ sq. ft. |
| Solid surfacing (i.e., Corian) |
|
|
Clean with mild cleanser. Minor scratches can be removed by buffing with an abrasive pad. |
$100-150 linear ft. |
| Concrete |
|
|
Wipe with sponge and mild cleanser. Reseal regularly with wax or sealant. |
$200-300 linear ft. |
| Stainless steel |
|
|
Wipe clean with a sponge and cleanser. | Cost depends on fabrication and edge finish. Custom fabrication is $300-500 per linear foot. |
| Wood |
|
|
For unfinished surfaces, use mineral oil weekly. Sand and refinish stains and burns. For finished surfaces, clean with a damp cloth and a mild cleanser. |
$50+ per linear foot |
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