Functional Design: A Guide to Choosing Beautiful Countertops that Last

Functional Design: A Guide To Choosing Beautiful Countertops That Last
Functional Design: A Guide To Choosing Beautiful Countertops That Last

Are you looking for kitchen countertops that will stand the test of time?

According to Home Advisor, the average cost spent on a kitchen remodel is $21,930. In the Tampa Bay area, the average cost is $13,661. But these remodels can cost tens of thousands of dollars more, depending on the extent of the changes you make. Kitchen countertops are a great way to make your kitchen stand out, but you also want them to last as a functional design. This way you can avoid the time and cost associated with another kitchen remodel. Read on to learn how to choose beautiful countertops that last.

Durability

One important consideration when creating a functional design for your kitchen countertops is the level of durability. While you will want a durable countertop, it’s also important to consider how often you will be using your kitchen. If you are a homeowner who is on the road or eats out at restaurants a lot, you may be able to afford to have a less durable countertop. However, if you enjoy homecooked meals and entertaining, you will want stronger countertops that are more durable. On the most durable end of the spectrum are quartz and granite. But unique, less durable countertop options include recycled glass and butcher block.

Day-to-Day Care

To choose the best countertop for your kitchen, you should also decide how committed you are to caring for them. A countertop can be a function design aesthetically, but it won’t last if you don’t take care of it. Some countertop designs offer far less upkeep than others. This is a function of how they are used, along with how that sort of material stands up to different elements like high temperatures and moisture.

Quartz is well-known for having the look of stone but needing far less maintenance than other options. It can stand up to hot pots and tough stains, allowing for easy cleaning and less upkeep. On the other hand, butcher block is a unique countertop that has more upkeep daily. You will have to be careful to avoid oils and other liquids that can penetrate or stain the block. You should avoid cutting food and other objects on your butcher block, as these can nick or scratch it.

Expected Life of the Countertop

The expected life of your countertop should be a consideration when choosing the best surface for your kitchen. According to the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB), stone countertops are estimated to last 100 years. That’s because the stone is built to last — often able to stand up to high temperatures, debris, and liquid that is spilled on it. But it’s not a matter of simply installing a stone countertop and doing nothing else. Not maintaining these countertops by properly cleaning them can damage your countertops and cause you to replace them far sooner.

Consider Your Best Options

There are a lot of different materials for kitchen countertops, but you should consider these four options as some of the best on the market:

Granite

Granite is one of the most popular choices for the kitchen countertops of today. Whether you are choosing natural granite or its engineered version, you get the same great benefits. This includes being scratch and heat resistant. One important difference between natural and engineered versions is that engineered granite can offer a more consistent look. This is because natural granite is a stone that has no real pattern to it. Before making a final decision, you should speak to a trained professional about other pros and cons for each type of granite.

Quartz

Quartz countertops are a great countertop choice as a functional design for your kitchen. This is because these countertops are made from crushed quartz crystals. After they are bound together in the design process, this forms a beautiful, durable countertop. You can avoid having these countertops sealed, which saves you money. But despite its durability, you may consider having rounded edges to avoid chipping.

Concrete

A concrete countertop is a great look for a modern design. But because it’s a natural stone, it is also very durable and can stand up to normal wear and tear. The important thing to keep in mind is that concrete is porous. This means that you should be sure you are sealing the countertops when they are installed. This way you can avoid costly replacements for damaged portions of your concrete.

Recycled Glass

Recycled glass can be a functional design for your kitchen, while also giving it a contemporary look. Because these countertops are made of recycled glass, it is durable and shines. Many recycled glass options also have a stone that is ground into the design. This gives a truly unique look, while also having great durability. These countertops are also eco-friendly, so you can have peace of mind that your kitchen re-design is eco-friendly. You also receive the benefits of having a countertop that is resistant to heat, stains, and scratches.

Countertops as Part of a Functional Design

A functional kitchen design is created by understanding your options, what you want, and how to take care of it over the long term. Materials like quartz, granite , and recycled glass each have their own pros and cons. But like most things in home improvement, its functionality is mostly dependent on your lifestyle and your needs.

At International Granite & Stone, we have five office locations in the central Florida area. This includes offices in Tampa, Clearwater, Odessa, and Orlando. We have a staff of trained professionals for all aspects of your kitchen design. This includes designers, fabricators, and installers. At the start of the process, we will meet with you to get a good sense of what you want. We will work with you to identify the best options for your needs and your budget. For more than a decade, we have built a reputation for our customer care and quality workmanship.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you create a kitchen with the functional design and beautiful countertops you want!