The Best Countertop Options for Busy Kitchens
For some, the kitchen is a sanctuary where countless hours are spent meticulously preparing food, for others the kitchen is used far less, and looks are key. Different materials have different strengths and weaknesses, so choosing the right material for your needs is key.
Properties That Make a Good Cooking Countertop
There are some properties that are essential to have a good countertop for a busy kitchen, and some that are just strongly preferred. First of all, you will want a strong heat resistance for when you are juggling multiple hot pots and pans and want a countertop that won’t be damaged by the heat.
Second most important, arguably first, is high stain resistance. A busy kitchen doesn’t give time to worry about a tomato left on the counter, a few drops of spilled lemon juice, or any type of oil being left leaving a permanent stain.
The part of cooking that no one likes is usually clean-up. If you are a heavy kitchen user, having a countertop surface that is easy to clean can make all the difference. Porous countertop materials may absorb not only liquids, but bacteria from meat and raw vegetables.
Options for Materials
When you look at an industrial kitchen you will most likely find stainless steel countertops. Stainless steel is an incredibly durable countertop material that has all the properties mentioned above. It is extremely resistant to heat, impervious to staining, the easiest to clean, and can’t chip or crack. The biggest problem with stainless steel countertops is the look. They are hard to style in most kitchens, and are very cold, in look, and to the touch.
Tile countertops are another great option that come in a larger variety of colors and styles. Paired with a waterproof grout, tile is a great option that also has all the properties that a busy at-home chef wants. A drawback of tile is that like stainless steel, it is hard to pair in most modern kitchens, and is considered quite antiquated.
If you want a more modern and unique countertop that can still stand up to the heavy use then glass countertops could be right for you. There is a large variety of styles and types of glass countertops, but you would need a type that is heat resistant.
The most well rounded option is going to be granite. With immense durability and excellent heat resistance, granite can stand up well to heavy use. Granite is porous, but with regular use of a high-quality sealer, you shouldn’t have any issues. Granite is the most popular stone right now, with a large variety of colors and designs, and the appeal of being a beautiful natural stone.
The key to choosing the perfect countertop material is going to be a cumulation of a variety of factors. Countertops are an investment, and a long-term one at that. You should not only be thrilled with the usability of the countertops, but in love with the look and the fit in your kitchen. Stop by our showroom where a knowledgeable salesperson will be happy to help you determine what material is going to be perfect for you and your space.
