Thinking of getting ready to redo your kitchen countertops? Fred Oakley Construction specializes in kitchen renovations! There are so many options for countertops that are available to you when updating your space! Actually, it can be overwhelming to determine what style is the best fit for your families’ needs.
There are classic countertop looks that will last a lifetime and there are trends that come and go. When you're creating your dream kitchen, you want to consider a look that will last the course of its time.
Poured Concrete Countertops offer strength, style and a natural, organic look. These counters need to be sealed more than once to prevent staining. Poured concrete can be tinted to be any color you wish. When sealed properly, it's stain resistant and can be cast and poured into any shape you desire. Unlike it's competitors, Its appearance actually improves with age. While concrete is heat resistant the sealer is not and hot pots and pans should not be placed directly on top of the concrete. Likewise, cutting boards should be used as well as chopping directly on to the concrete could damage the sealant. Concrete countertops don't require a lot maintenance and is a very desirable option at a very desirable price.
Butcher Block Countertops offer a look that is elegant yet casual and environmentally friendly. The soft surfaces of these counters mean that some maintenance is required, but nothing that will take up a significant amount of time. Just because it looks like a cutting board, doesn't mean you should actually cut on it! If you choose a butcher block surface, it should be sealed and oiled monthly. Cleanup is easy, requiring simply mild dish detergent and a light cloth or sponge. The only potential negative is that the surface, if not well maintained can dry or crack and excess water should always be wiped off.
Reclaimed wood countertops are using wood that has been salvaged from older homes and barns. Reclaimed wood is a smart and attractive option that offers a look and feel that the newer butcher blocks simply can’t. Reclaimed wood that was used from older trees is much sturdier than the newer counterparts made from younger trees. If you're environment-conscious, using reclaimed wood for your kitchen is a wonderful way to make your kitchen "green".
Cork Countertops are one of my personal favorites! Probably because I love wine so much. Cork is dense, sturdy and lightweight. It's also a sustainable product which is another good choice for those who want environmentally friendly kitchens. Cork is resistant to water and heat and has anti-bacterial properties.
Stainless steel countertops have an elegant, classy, sophisticated feel to it. These countertops are definitely an up to date, modern, trend-setting material. They are resilient to water, heat and germs. the downside is that they are susceptible to dings and scratches, and like your stainless steel fridge, they show every little finger print. With regular polish and wash, these tops require very little maintenance.
Soapstone is a natural stone that’s quarried much like granite. It’s a softer surface composed mainly from mineral talc, but the varieties used for kitchen counter tops are generally speaking sturdier as they contain more quartz which makes soapstone a wonderful option for your kitchen surface. The color is naturally gray which darkens with age. Similar to stainless steel, this material is not immune to dents and scratches. Soapstone offers a smooth, matte feel. Any scratches incurred can be sanded or oiled away.
Recycled Glass counters are another option for the environmentally friendly individuals. These counters are not only beautiful with a variety of colors and options available, but they also have a life expectancy of 50 years! They are easy to maintain but may require to be re-sealed every few years.
Slate countertops are a natural, fine-grained rock which is softer than granite but harder than marble. Slate has a naturally uneven surface that many find aesthetically appealing. This uneven surface makes these counters particularly appealing since the natural occurring dents make it hard to detect nicks and scratches. Slate has a dull matte finish and would not be the material of choice for those who prefer more of a high gloss look. Maintenance is easy – a simple wash with soap and water. To prevent staining and discoloration, it's best to use trivets/pot holders under hot pans and coasters under anything containing liquid.
Quartz countertops are one of the most scratch resistant minerals available. It's a plentiful and natural occurring mineral. Wiping stains from Quartz is even easier than granite which makes it a very desirable choice for your kitchen! Quartz doesn't need to be sealed, has a long lifetime and is available in a wide variety of colors. For those wanting a natural mineral counter top in your kitchen, but wanting to stay away from granite, Quartz is a perfect choice!
Whether you're trying to decide which countertop is right for you or you're looking for a complete remodel, Fred Oakley Construction in Hendersonville is the way to go! He has been in the business for over 40 years! You can't get more experienced than that! Fred services all of Middle Tennessee and Clarksville as well! Be sure to visit him HERE to sign up for special savings!
