How to Choose the Right Countertops for Your Central Pennsylvania Custom Home

siteROOST Editor • May 4, 2023

Triple E Homes reviews various types of countertop materials and what you should consider when choosing the perfect countertops for your custom home

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Countertops are one of the most important features of any home. Choosing not only the perfect color but right material that meets your design preferences, as well as your desired level of functionality and maintenance, can be both an exciting and challenging task. At Triple E Homes we work with clients to design their dream kitchen. In this article we will review the advantages and disadvantages of common countertop materials for your custom home.


Granite

For decades, granite countertops have been a popular choice of home owners largely because of their durability and widespread availability. Granite countertops are highly resistant to scratches, heat, and stains, and are known for their sanitary properties. Also, granite comes in a wide range of designs and colors. While granite has few drawbacks, like any natural stone, some slabs may have unwanted variations or imperfections. Additionally, granite is porous and requires a high-quality sealer to prevent staining.


Marble

Marble is renowned for its exquisite white hues and distinctive veining patterns, which are among its most noteworthy benefits. Additionally, marble is waterproof and highly resistant to heat making it very functional in a kitchen space. However, marble is prone to scratching and has a porous surface so may absorb liquids resulting in staining. As a result, regular sealing is necessary to protect and maintain marble countertops. Additionally, due to its high cost, marble is often reserved for feature countertops such as islands, rather than for use throughout an entire kitchen. 


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Quartz

Quartz is a type of engineered material that is distinct from Quartzite, which is a natural stone. Unlike natural stone, Quartz is not porous and is highly resistant to stains and scratches, making it easy to maintain and clean without the need for sealing. Also, since Quartz is a manufactured product, it is available in a wide array of colors and designs. Unlike natural stone, the colors and patterns of Quartz are consistent across entire slabs. 


Quartzite

Quartzite, which should not be mistaken for Quartz, is a type of natural stone that is known for its toughness, longevity, and ease of maintenance. It can be cleaned easily with just soap and water and does not require any special cleaners. Since Quartzite is a natural stone, it is resistant to heat, but it is still advisable to use trivets or pot-holders to avoid direct contact. Sealing is necessary to safeguard and maintain its beauty. Quartzite is available in limited colors, mostly off-white or grey hues.


Wood

Wood countertops, such as butcher block, can be incorporated into both modern and traditional home designs. There is a wide range of wood types to choose from offering various colors, grain patterns and hardness levels. Compared to stone countertops, wood provides a warmer touch and feel. For example, incorporating butcher block countertops for a kitchen island can transform the look of a kitchen and add a coziness to the space. Any damages or stains to butcher block countertops can be repaired by sanding down and re-staining the surface. However, to maintain their durability and beauty, wood countertops do require regular oiling and sealing with a high-quality sealant. High moisture levels or water damage can cause the countertop to warp slightly. Also, due to its porous nature, wood is not considered a highly sanitary material since it can harbor germs. 



 Concrete

Poured-in-place concrete countertops allow for a seamless kitchen design without any visible seams. They are popular in modern or transitional spaces and can be shaped, textured, and colored to match the desired aesthetic. Concrete countertops are heat-resistant and durable. However, without proper sealing, concrete countertops are vulnerable to stains and scratches. The sealer can be damaged by abrasive cleaning solutions and tools, so it is important to be careful when cleaning and maintaining them. Over time concrete countertops may be prone to cracking as a home settles. 


Countertops are just one of the many decisions to be made when designing your custom home. At Triple E Homes our goal is to help simplify the process of designing and building your custom dream home. We are proud to be one of the top builders serving State College, Boalsburg, Bellefonte, Port Matilda, Spring Mills, Centre Hall and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to get started.


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