Kitchen renovations allow you to update your kitchen’s look and even improve its functionality. Changing your countertops is one of the fastest ways to upgrade your kitchen space.
There are a lot of kitchen countertop materials available in today’s market. However, granite and stainless steel are two of the most popular options. How do you know which one is the right option for your kitchen design? This article can help you with making that choice.
Granite Kitchen Countertops
Granite is a gorgeous crystalline igneous rock consisting of quartz, feldspar, and micas that form through slow magma crystallization. Granite is naturally harvested via quarrying and is typically used as countertops, flooring tiles, paving stones, monuments, and more.
There are three distinct granite designs available: marbled, speckled, and solid. These designs depend on the proportion of minerals and rocks present in the original molten rock source. It means that the granite slab will be predominantly black if the majority of the source rock is biotite. But if the source rock is an even mix of quartz and amphibole, it will produce a speckled granite slab.
Advantages of Granite Kitchen Countertops:
- Heat-resistant countertops will not melt or blister despite being exposed to hot temperatures.
- Professionally sealed granite countertops are stain-resistant, allowing for easy cleanup.
- Dent-resistant countertops that will not bend nor break.
- Aesthetically stunning with three design options available.
- Extremely unique since no two granite slabs are alike.
- Helps create a warm and inviting space.
Disadvantages of Granite Kitchen Countertops:
- Naturally porous and may stain if improperly sealed.
- Can be quite expensive because of the unique processes that the stone needs to undergo before using them,
- Custom installation can also bump up the price.
Stainless Steel Kitchen Countertops
Stainless steel is an iron alloy steel that typically contains around 10 to 30 percent chromium, and the rest is a combination of carbon, manganese, and silicon. Stainless steel is a manufactured material that usually turns into tools, equipment, sinks, cookware, cutlery, countertops, and more.
There are also three kinds of stainless steel: austenitic, ferritic, and martensitic. These three categories differ in their chromium content, magnetism, and applications. Aside from these typologies, stainless steel is also categorized into grades. Stainless steel grades take into account the alloy’s quality, durability, and temperature resistance. Stainless steel countertops are usually food-safe, 304-grade, austenitic stainless steel.
Advantages of Stainless Steel Kitchen Countertops:
- Water-resistant countertops that will neither retain moisture nor get significant water damage.
- Heat-resistant and can withstand direct contact with hot pots and pans.
- Stain-resistant and non-porous and does not require additional treatment to make it so.
- One of the most hygienic surfaces when properly maintained and sanitized.
- Custom-made according to your specifications.
- Relatively easy to install.
Disadvantages of Stainless Steel Kitchen Countertops:
- Expensive countertop material per square foot.
- Custom creation and installation contribute to the huge final bill.
- Metal cutlery, tools, and appliances can scratch the countertop surface.
- Dents are possible if the steel you use for the countertop is thin and low-grade.
- Creates a severe and clinical-looking space.
Conclusion
There is a world of possibilities with kitchen countertops. However, most people tend to gravitate towards granite or stainless steel.
In choosing the right countertop, you need to consider the pros and cons of each material, consult your kitchen renovation design, and check your spending limit. But regardless of which material you choose, make sure to get the right people to help you turn all your renovation plans into reality.
If you are looking for one of the best companies to help you with kitchen renovations in Pattaya, Thailand, trust European Painting and Electrical Services. For over fifteen years, we have been assisting individuals, families, and companies in turning their design dreams into amazing realities. Contact us today!
