Latest in Kitchen Countertops

Kitchens come in all shapes, sizes, and styles - and so do kitchen countertops. If you want to renovate your kitchen, consider choosing one of the following materials instead of going mainstream.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a popular trend in kitchen countertops that doesn't seem to be losing its appeal. For clean lines and a sleek, sophisticated look, this material is the perfect choice. Many people also love stainless steel because it complements professional appliances well.

But it's good for more than just a professional ambiance - stainless steel countertops are modern but they also provide the avid cook with a great surface to prepare food and create culinary masterpieces. It costs a little more than other materials, but can't be beat when it comes down to durability and cleanliness. Stainless steel is easy to clean and maintain. The only downside is that these countertops do scratch and make a lot of noise when you're clanging pots and pans on the surface.

Concrete

Another tough countertop material, concrete is a kitchen surface that will definitely last. Concrete is showing up all over the modern home, so it shouldn't be a surprise that it's a growing trend in the world of kitchens.

Concrete is durable and you can paint it any color you want to match a wide range of decorating styles. You just need to apply a sealer to protect the color from everyday usage.

The Butcher's Block

It's long been known that wood infuses a room with natural warmth and can transform any space into a comfortable haven for friends and family. But have you ever considered wooden countertops?

Homeowners are choosing to turn their counters into butcher blocks for more than one reason. It's true that wood is beautiful, but it's also very practical. It provides a fantastic cutting surface for the passionate home cook to chop a variety of food items.

Wood countertops are usually constructed out of hardwood strips (white oak, hard-rock maple, or beech) and glued together. Unfortunately, they do require more maintenance than other choices, mainly due to moisture retention. You'll need to keep water away from butcher blocks. Although some wood finishes may protect the wood to some extent, most are not food safe.

To maintain color and luster, you will have to rinse the surface in mineral oil once in a while. After every use, wash the surface with oil soap to hamper the growth of dangerous bacteria.

Usually people install a butcher's block in one area of a kitchen only, to provide a good place for preparation of food for cooking.

Find a local Kitchen contractor.
View more Kitchen articles.