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When renovating or remodeling a kitchen, a homeowner faces the most difficult task: choosing between various types of wonderful materials. Deciding between a slick, modern element like concrete and an elegant, traditional one like granite can be a stressful task.

To make an easier decision, here is the ultimate guide to these glorious, magnificent objects, also known as kitchen countertops:

Deciding Between Materials

The most common question you can hear in a countertop shop is: Which material should I choose? This decision isn’t easy at all. Every material you encounter while shopping will seem as the most beautiful thing you have ever seen. Additionally, they all preform differently when it comes to maintenance, durability, and water-resistance.

The types of countertops you will come across during your decision-making are: natural stone (marble and granite), engineered stone (quartz), laminate, concrete, stainless steel, butcher’s block, recycled glass, solid surfaces, and tile. Obviously, there are tons of options available, but many homeowners end up on a fence between natural and man-made stone.

Natural Vs Engineered Stone

If you want authentic and natural designs, then marble and granite are the perfect choices for you. They are made from roughly cut stone, mined directly from a quarry. This is why every natural stone countertop has a unique pattern. But it has some disadvantages as well.

Natural stone countertops are known as the most vulnerable materials on the market. They must be sealed on an annual basis to gain strength against acidic substances and heat. However, if you show them regular care, they will last a lifetime.

When somebody falls in love with stone countertops, but aren’t keen on the idea of regular maintenance, they always opt for quartz. A man-made material designed specifically to imitate stone, quartz will provide a similar style, while also being more durable and resistant.

From Steel To Butcher’s Block

Limiting yourself on granite and quartz isn’t recommended at all, especially since the other materials are as equally beautiful. Of course, none of them are perfect. For example, stainless steel is the most durable countertop out there, but some homeowners don’t like because it easily scratches and makes a lot of noise.

On the other hand, solid surface countertop is extremely easy to clean, bacteria-resistant, and difficult to scratch. However, these amazing benefits can easily be ignored once a person learns that a heated kettle can damage the surface and cause melting.

Another is example is Butcher’s block. Its main material is wood, therefore giving a rustic look and being popular amongst modern generations. However, it can get damaged by water and moisture, so placing it near a sink isn’t such a wise decision.

Increasing Home Value

Whatever your choice is, remember that quality countertops can increase home value. In fact, their expected return on investments is very high, varying from 60 to 80%. However, the ROI mostly depends on the material you choose. For instance, natural stone countertops are adored by buyers and can add more value than cheaper materials like laminate.

At the end of the day, everything will depend on the buyers and the way you use the countertop to elevate overall appeal. Kitchen renovations are becoming trendier than ever, so missing out on such an opportunity now can be harder to swallow when you decide to sell.