Charlie Thiede

Your countertop is one of the most noticeable features in your kitchen; it's also one of the most used and abused surfaces in your home. This is why the choice of material used for your kitchen countertop is very important. There are many types of materials, colors and designs to consider; here are a dozen to get you started:

Granite is by far the most popular and one of the highest quality countertop materials available today. The natural stone material is strong, durable, heat tolerant, stain resistant and a very elegant addition to your kitchen. With a wide variety of colors and styles no two slabs will be exactly alike, so you can be assured your granite countertop will be one of a kind. There are a variety of techniques to use for finishing for a matt, rough, or very smooth and glossy look. The cost is high, but so is the quality. You can lower the cost by selecting granite tiles instead of a slab, but you will sacrifice looks, strength and durability offered by a complete slab. Granite is easy to maintain with sealers and cleaners specifically designed for use on granite.

Marble is also a very popular, high quality material that comes in a wide variety of color choices, and is available in slab form or various size tiles. There are also several finish techniques available for marble; smooth polished for countertops or a rougher finish for floor tiles to minimize slip and falls. Marble is also heat and stain resistant, but not as resistant as granite. Like granite, it is easy to maintain with cleaners and sealers specifically designed for use on marble surfaces.

Soapstone is a softer material, easy to work with, and its texture feels kind of like a bar of soap when you run your fingers across it. It is very strong and durable, easy to clean and maintain and less expensive than granite or marble. With soapstone, you are limited to a matt finish in either gray or black.

Limestone is available in various kinds; some are too porous to be suitable for a kitchen countertop. It will require more frequent sealing to maintain the surface to prevent staining.

Slate is generally used for floors but could serve as a natural stone countertop. It is not as desirable because it can be very porous and rough in texture.

Ceramic tile, like slate, is more suitable for floors but has been used as a countertop. The grout joints tend to stain easily and the tiles could chip or crack when heavy pans are set on or slid across them.

Stainless Steel is an interesting choice, but plain and limited in color and texture. It looks OK in restaurants, but most people prefer a little more creativity and design for their kitchen.

Concrete is popular in some areas, available in soft colors, strong and durable, but it is too porous to be stain resistant.

Corian is a plastic slab material that looks like a natural stone, but is losing favor because it just doesn't hold up to the rigorous use of a kitchen countertop. It is easy to clean, but not as durable or scratch resistant.

Engineered Stone, like silestone, is a slab material made of stone pieces held together by plastic. It is similar to corian and the stone chips give it a more natural look.

Formica is a plastic laminate that is affordable and comes in a wide variety of colors and designs. In earlier generations, it was the popular choice for builders and housewives, but has become outdated.

Glass is gaining in popularity as a slab type of countertop. Slabs are made of glass chips bound by plastic. EnviroSlab is an example. Another example is Icestone, a colorful countertop with ice chips bound in concrete.

Nothing outdates your home more than an old countertop, except the ugly green or gold appliances from the 60's; remember those? A new countertop can be an elegant, beautiful upgrade to your kitchen, adding immediate value to your home. When considering your choice of material, don't forget about style and durability as well as how much your budget allows. Kitchen and bathroom remodeling are the highest expense and the most labor intensive, no matter what choices you make, so don't be afraid to spend more in these rooms. Granite and Marble are the most desirable choices for countertops for durability, beauty and elegance and they are easy to clean and maintain.

This article was written by Charlie Thiede, owner of Rock Tops Granite, the leading granite and marble countertop fabricators in the US. Rock Tops technology is what makes them unique from other companies. With computer numerically controlled (CNC) stone processing equipment, they get a perfectly cut and polished edge on every countertop. Artfully merging the latest technology with old world stone craftsmanship, Rock Tops are the experts at creating quality granite and marble countertops which they professionally install. Visit their website at http://www.rocktopsgranite.com to locate a showroom and learn more.

People are spending more time, effort and money on their kitchens today than any other remodeling projects. One of the first things to decide on when you design your new kitchen is the type of countertop to choose. There are many types to choose from, including varieties of granite, marble and synthetic materials. There are many reasons why the growing trend today is granite.

Looks-Beauty and Elegance:

Granite is beautiful and elegant. It is available in a variety of striking colors and finishes, making it easy to match to the rest of your kitchen décor. The hardware you choose for your cabinets can be matched to the natural grandeur of the granite to enhance its polished shine. The natural designs in the granite forms a good backdrop for the overall design of your kitchen so everything flows and blends nicely.

Textures-Rich and Elegant:

The large blocks of granite removed from the earth are converted into slabs. This technology allows for less pattern variation and discoloration. Also, unlike tiles, there are fewer cuts or scratches to reduce the chances of dirt or grit in crevices. Granite countertops provide a uniform, solid surface once they are cut and polished.

Strength and Durability:

Granite is a hard, durable stone, quarried from deep in the earth. It is resistant to heat, extreme temperature changes and it doesn't chip or crack easily. Once it is properly sealed, it is not as vulnerable as synthetic materials to staining or discoloration from chemicals, hot pots or spills. Granite does require some maintenance, but with very little effort, it will maintain its beauty for many years of use.

Return on Investment:

Granite is a relatively expensive material and will add to the overall cost of remodeling your home, but it is a great investment, because of its beauty and durability. If you are planning to sell you home in the future, a buyer will have less room for negotiating your price down if they don't need to endure the expense and effort of remodeling the kitchen.

Since granite is a natural stone product, it is very easy to maintain its beauty and elegance. Because of its known strength and durability, there is no need to worry about it losing its look over time. With minimal care you will be able to preserve the look and finish of your granite countertop for years to come.

This article was written by Charlie Thiede, owner of Rock Tops Granite, the leading granite and marble countertop fabricators in the US. Rock Tops technology is what makes them unique from other companies. With computer numerically controlled (CNC) stone processing equipment, they get a perfectly cut and polished edge on every countertop. Artfully merging the latest technology with old world stone craftsmanship, Rock Tops are the experts at creating quality granite and marble countertops which they professionally install. Visit their website at http://www.rocktopsgranite.com to locate a showroom and learn more.

Natural stones, like marble and granite, have become quite popular for use in kitchen remodeling of upscale condos and designer homes. They have quickly become a favorite, eliminating the traditional laminates, vinyl or synthetic countertops which have become outdated. Because natural stone is relatively expensive and labor intensive to install, homeowners are concerned about properly maintaining its appearance.

Though granite is stronger and more durable than marble, is chemical resistant and can withstand higher temperatures, it is more porous than marble. It can absorb liquids which can cause stains. Marble is softer than granite, and less resistant to heat and chemicals. Even lemon or vinegar can cause damage to the surface.

The first step is to protect the material with a stone sealant before it is installed. It is also advisable to use a sealant every year. Sealants are available in a spray or liquid form and the application is usually very easy to do. Read the label on the container to be sure it is right for your countertop and follow the instructions for use.

There are a variety of cleaning products specifically designed for granite and marble countertops to keep them looking like new for years. Avoid using other multi-surface cleaners; they might be cheaper, but some of them could cause damage to the surface. Wipe up spills immediately to avoid having to use an abrasive cleaner or scrubbing cloth.

Though natural stone is heat resistant, scratch and break resistant and somewhat stain resistant when properly sealed, care should be taken to immediately wipe up spills and avoid sitting hot pots directly on the surface. Your countertop may be very durable and abuse-resistant, but that doesn't mean it is abuse-proof. Remember, you took a lot of time to choose the design, you paid good money for the installation and you take great pride in the beauty and elegance it has added to your kitchen. So, take good care of it so that it maintains a new look for years to come.

This article was written by Charlie Thiede, owner of Rock Tops Granite, the leading granite and marble countertop fabricators in the US. Rock Tops technology is what makes them unique from other companies. With computer numerically controlled (CNC) stone processing equipment, they get a perfectly cut and polished edge on every countertop. Artfully merging the latest technology with old world stone craftsmanship, Rock Tops are the experts at creating quality granite and marble countertops which they professionally install. Visit their website at http://www.rocktopsgranite.com to locate a showroom and learn more.

There have been reports of granite countertops emitting radioactivity. Some reports have said that even though most granite countertops tested were nothing to be worried about, some have had "hot-spots" that emit levels that can be life threatening. You may even read reports that claim some colors of granite pose more of a threat than others. Another report showed higher test results in exotic granite and recommends that anyone who is concerned should have their granite countertop tested. So, is there a danger of radiation exposure from granite countertops or is this myth?

What is radon and how does it become a threat? Radon is a radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless and tasteless. It is formed by the breakdown of uranium, a natural radioactive material found in soil, rock and groundwater. When radon escapes from the ground into the outdoor air, it is diluted to low concentrations and is not a concern; however, in an enclosed space it can accumulate to high levels and break down to form additional radioactive particles called progeny that can contaminate the air you breathe.

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and it does pose a serious health risk. Most experts agree that there really is no "safe" level of radon and that all radiation has the potential to damage DNA within cells. A lifetime exposure to low levels can lead to cancer.

Granite countertops have been a very popular addition to homes since the 1990's. If any reputable studies showed that they were a serious health threat, then they would have either been outlawed by now or necessary steps would be taken to cure the problem.

Some of the reports that have been printed were later proven to be marketing scams by companies who sell synthetic products rather than natural stone. The hype and panic caused by this competitive marketing has proven to be more harmful than the threat they are claiming against granite being used in homes.

According to the EPA, "There is radiation all around us and we need to be aware of the various sources--when to be concerned and how to protect ourselves from harmful exposure. Radiation has been part of the earth since its beginning. Construction materials such as concrete, cinder blocks, bricks, and granite contain small amounts of radioactive materials that are found naturally in the materials used to make them." These quotes were taken from the web page at http://www.epa.gov/radiation/sources/index.html#construction

Though there have been many reports to generate concern, studies have failed to produce evidence that granite countertops pose a significant health risk. The EPA believes that the main source of radon in homes is soil gas that is drawn indoors through a natural suction process. The EPA has no reliable data to conclude that countertops are increasing indoor radon levels.

This article was written by Charlie Thiede, owner of Rock Tops Granite, the leading granite and marble countertop fabricators in the US. Rock Tops technology is what makes them unique from other companies. With computer numerically controlled (CNC) stone processing equipment, they get a perfectly cut and polished edge on every countertop. Artfully merging the latest technology with old world stone craftsmanship, Rock Tops are the experts at creating quality granite and marble countertops which they professionally install. Visit their website at http://www.rocktopsgranite.com to locate a showroom and learn more.

Marble Countertops

Marble is a crystallized limestone, composed of quartz which can be polished to a mirror-finish, bringing out depth and color, for an elegant countertop. Marble is an excellent choice for a countertop because it is hard, compact and heat resistant. It comes in a variety of colors and can be finished using different methods for different looks, from a highly polished look to a matt or rough finish. Marble countertops require little maintenance to keep their original fabricated look; however, it is still a good idea to avoid setting hot pots directly on the surface as it could cause the seal coat to become discolored. The natural stone material is also highly resistant to scratches, cracks and breakage.

Two main types of Marble Countertops

The two main types of marble countertops are slab, which is relatively expensive and can last a lifetime, and marble tiles, which are less expensive. The tiles can be damaged if enough stress is placed on them and they can be expensive to repair. Marble countertops are ideal for restaurants because they are non-organic and only slightly porous. They are easily disinfected with store-bought products. They make a great impression on diners and clients. Marble is also very impressive for the home, adding culture and class. Marble withstands frequent use and maintenance is simple. Wipe spills as soon as possible after they occur, to keep your marble countertop clean and glowing.

Granite Countertops

Granite is another natural stone material for countertops that is known for its durability, high-performance and elegant look. It will endure the every day rigors of kitchen activity as it is heat and stain resistant and easy to maintain. Granite is a hard material that will not scratch or crack easily and it is available in hundreds of colors. It is very easy to maintain with sealers and cleaning products available that are specifically designed for use on granite countertops.

Granite can be a relatively expensive material due to the cost of labor as it must be cut and polished with great accuracy, but the expense is easily offset by the beauty and elegance it adds to your kitchen or bathroom. Granite countertops are usually professionally installed because of they require the use of special tools and equipment. This is not a material for the jack-of-all trades to install. The granite slab must be adjusted for thickness variations and leveled perfectly to reduce stress and avoid cracking over time. The precision cuts to allow for wall outlets, switches and faucets are done with a diamond edged saw.

Soapstone

Soapstone is relatively soft and easy to work with, yet durable enough to stand up to some abuse. Soapstone is a form of metamorphic rock containing magnesium, dolomite and talc and is so named because touching its surface produces a sensation similar to that of a bar of soap.

The scientific name for soapstone is steatite; it comes from deep in the earth, like quartz, marble and diamonds. It is geologically related to marble; however, it is less expensive and more stain resistant. It does not react to acidic substances and virtually nothing you spill on it will cause permanent staining. It is very durable, with a matt finish, but the available colors are limited to gray and black.

Corian

Corian is a popular brand of solid surface countertops for people who want something of better quality than a laminate, but cannot justify the expense of granite or marble. Corian is basically plastic, so colors are not as rich in tone as with natural stone, nor is it available in as much variety. It is not heat resistant; a hot pot will melt the surface. Care must also be taken to avoid scratching the surface.

Contemporary, Synthetic Materials

Less expensive materials for contemporary kitchen design include wood, stainless steel, laminates, glass, concrete and ceramic. These materials come in a wide variety of colors and textures but they are outdated and less durable than the natural stone products like granite or marble.

Formica is a laminate material that used to be the first choice for home builders, interior designers and housewives. It is easy to install, comes in a variety of colors and is relatively inexpensive. It is not nearly as durable or elegant as natural stone products and can be easily stained, cut or damaged. Great care must be taken if you have a laminate countertop. Different stains may require different products to remove them. Tough stains may be impossible to remove without doing permanent damage to the surface.

Ceramic tile offers a wide variety of colors and textures but is no longer considered a favorable choice for countertops. This is because the grout joints tend to stain and it can chip and crack easily when used as a countertop.

Stainless steel has its advantages, but offers no choices in color or texture. It is fine for some restaurants, but not very decorative for a home.

Considerations:

There are many things to consider when choosing a countertop, including looks, cost and durability. If your home is in an area of lower class residents and you do not plan to stay it much longer, you may go with something less expensive in order to get a good return on your investment. But, remember, if you are going to be in the home for many years, you will want something durable, so that when it comes time to sell, there is less room for a buyer to negotiate your price down. Buyers look more closely at kitchens and bathrooms because these are the most expensive rooms to remodel. If your home is located in a middle-class or upper-class class area, you should most definitely consider using granite or marble for your countertop as this is most likely the choice of homeowners in the area. You get what you pay for and your kitchen and bathroom are well worth the additional cost of quality materials.

This article was written by Charlie Thiede, owner of Rock Tops Granite, the leading granite and marble countertop fabricators in the US. Rock Tops technology is what makes them unique from other companies. With computer numerically controlled (CNC) stone processing equipment, they get a perfectly cut and polished edge on every countertop. Artfully merging the latest technology with old world stone craftsmanship, Rock Tops are the experts at creating quality granite and marble countertops which they professionally install. Visit their website at http://www.rocktopsgranite.com to locate a showroom and learn more.