Tag: Tampa Bay kitchen remodeling
I Need New Countertops!
Finding the right kind of countertop for your kitchen can be complicated and pricey! Before jumping-in and making a quick purchase on a large kitchen modification, take a moment to review the positives and negatives associated with some popular kitchen countertop materials to help you choose the right one.
Quartz:
Engineered quartz is nearly maintenance free. The material is resistant to:
- Stains.
- Impacts.
- Scratches.
Its non-porous nature also means it does not need to be sealed yearly like granite. Its list of positive features can be expanded to include that it can be purchased in a number of colors and natural patterns, both of which help it rank close to granite for popularity.
Polished Granite:
Traditional granite countertops remain the number one choice of most Tampa homeowners, because they offer a pricey look and durability. Being that it is natural, granite has variations in its pattern, a fact that adds to its charm with homeowners but pattern differences can make it a nightmare when matching slabs becomes a necessity.
The nature of granite requires that all that the countertop be sealed once a year and all stains be wiped-down quickly, particularly:
- Oil.
- Red wine.
- Acid.
- Cola.
Laminate:
Laminate countertops are a budget-friendly countertop option that is experiencing a renaissance thanks in part to its price and patterns that have the appearance of wood, stone or quartz. If you are updating a mid-century Florida home, it is worth noting that laminate countertops are also manufactured in bright colors you would not expect.
Wood:
When it is properly sealed, budget-friendly and hardworking wood is sanitary and perfect for food preparation. Unlike laminate, you do not have to worry about accidentally placing a hot lid or pan on the surface. If a cozy kitchen filled only with wood countertops does not fit your plans, keep in mind you can match the countertops with natural granite or engineered quartz for a unique look.
Stainless Steel:
If the cozy comfort of wood is not your style, stainless steel can help create an industrial and modern appearance in any kitchen. The metal will match well with an array of colors and is exceedingly easy to clean, all it takes is a soft dish cloth and some mild soap. Stainless steel can also boast that it is considered the most-hygienic countertop material option on the market.
Recycled Materials:
If you are eco-minded, you will want to consider recycled countertops. Materials used in recycled countertops include glass, paper, glass and plastic.
How do you feel about the six countertop options described? Did you find a countertop that will fit well within your planned kitchen remodeling project? If we can answer remodeling questions or help you move forward with your plans, give us a call at 813-436-0177 to schedule a free consultation.
Granite Countertop Alternatives
In Tampa kitchen remodeling, granite countertops continue to be king. If the speckled stone leaves you feeling cold, stop worrying. There are warmer alternatives. Here are some of our favorites!
Marble:
Marble is gorgeous and less expensive than granite, but the maintenance can be difficult for a Tampa family with young children.
Butcher Block:
Butcher block is less expensive than granite or marble, and it offers warmth if you opt to install neutral white cabinets. The downside is that butcher block can stain, and you will want to protect it from pots that have just left the stove. Regular scheduled oiling will help maintain the appearance and longevity of the countertops.
Engineered Stone:
If you opt for engineered stone countertops in planning your Tampa kitchen update, you will find it is made of small bits of quartz that is mixed with a binding agent and then molded. The resulting material has the appearance and durability of stone. If the look of marble is appealing but the maintenance is a deterrent, engineered stone can be a solid choice for you. Engineered stone is also a good choice for a homeowner who prefers a minimalist look, because there are option free of the veining that is found in marble.
Stainless Steel:
Homeowners in Tampa often find that stainless steel is highly durable, and it has a unique industrial feel.
Concrete:
A concrete kitchen countertop has an interesting, raw elegance that you will not find with some of the other options on the market. Concrete provides you with the feel and movement you expect to find in natural stone, but it still maintains the edge found in stainless steel.
How do you feel about these alternatives for your kitchen remodeling project? Do you still feel granite is the only option?