“How much is this going to cost?” is the first question anyone asks when talking countertops. Before determining the cost of replacing the kitchen countertops, consider questions like what kind of lifestyle does your home encompass, are you a young couple starting out, do you have children or teenagers and how often are you in the kitchen?
Getting a few estimates from a general contractor to get a ballpark figure is a start. Shop around for the best pricing per square feet. If you are not in the market to completely replace the countertops in your kitchen, there are some DIY solutions. Some companies offer a countertop makeover by applying a faux-granite finish to the existing surface, or there are paints you may purchase especially designed for resurfacing laminate countertops. Otherwise, here are a few pros and cons to countertop surfaces you may be considering.
Laminates
Laminate counter surfaces are smooth surface countertops, made of plastic that sometime come in pre-cut pieces. They come in a variety of colors, are easy to clean and stand up to high kitchen traffic. Laminate surfaces definitely will fit into any budget, and some larger chain home repair stores have prefabricated countertops ready to install with a few simple tools. Some of the drawbacks that occur with laminate countertops are once the surface is scratched it cannot be easily replaced, seams show in the joints and finished ends can be difficult to replace.
There are thousands of colors, designs, sizes and finishes to choose from. Tiling the kitchen can be middle of the road as far as pricing goes; for the savvy do-it-yourselfer, costs can be cut by laying the tile yourself. Tiled surfaces will withstand high traffic and heat. Ceramic tile is a non-porous surface, so it is easy to clean. If a tile cracks, just pull up the broken piece and replace it.
When using tile it’s a good plan to keep 10 to 15 extra tiles because certain styles may become discontinued. Sealing the grout periodically is going to extend the life of the tiled surface, and you can easily do that yourself.
Wood/Butchers Block
Although butcher block countertops give a warm, provincial feel to the kitchen, if wood is the choice for the counter surface, you may want to consider using it in a prep area or kitchen island. Wood is very porous and harbors bacteria, so ensuring the wood is sealed properly is important. Cuts can be sanded out or oiled and resealed. Wood can stain over time, so, as with tile, periods of resealing with linseed oil will extend the life and beauty of the countertop.
Granite
When cost is not an obstacle, granite countertops are first choice, adding beauty and value to your home. Granite is easily maintained, if sealed will not absorb stains and rarely needs refinishing over time. Granite gives any kitchen a rich, contemporary, classy look. Granite countertops, however, will need to be installed professionally.
