Counter-Top Selection & Installation – Grand Rapids, MI
Choosing the counter-top surfaces for your home is one of the most important decisions you will make during a new build or remodel. Counter-tops are one of the most visible and heavily used materials in our day to day life. Let Century’s team of expert designers guide you to the material that fits your lifestyle. Do you need an easy-to-maintain surface? Is stain-resistance a concern? Or is style what matters most? With access to materials that fit every style and budget, Century is your go to source for all your counter-top needs.
Types of Countertops
Granite
Granite is a stone found naturally through-out the world. The varying colors and patterns found in nature make each piece one of a kind. Granite stands up well to water, heat and daily wear and tear. Being a natural stone, granite is porous and in rare cases can stain. It is recommended that granite be sealed every so often to avoid the risk of staining.
Quartz
Quartz is a man-made material that is a mixture of natural stone set into a polymer resin. Durable and easy-to-clean, quartz can imitate the look of granite or marble. Quartz is a non-porous material that is stain resistant and virtually maintenance free. Quartz countertops come in a wide range of colors and patterns. Being a man-made material each slab of quartz is identical, opposed to natural stone, which can have dramatic variations.
Laminate
Laminate has been a kitchen mainstay for decades. Advancements in fabrication now allow for decorative edge treatments and integrated sinks that were previously unavailable in a laminated surface. The latest designs on the market mimic stone, butcher block and other pricier surfaces. Laminate is one of the most affordable countertop materials, It is low maintenance and easy to clean. Laminate is however prone to scratching, scorch marks and, in some cases, staining.
Concrete
Concrete countertops have an industrial chic feel that fits right into a loft or adds interest to an otherwise traditional space. Concrete is extremely versatile: It can be cast into custom shapes and colors tints. You can easily add unique inlays, such as glass fragments, rocks and shells. Concrete is a hefty material that will need adequate support underneath but will also stand up to heavy use applications.
Soapstone
Soapstone is a natural stone composed largely of mineral talc, which lends the material the smooth feel of soap. Slab colors are typically medium gray and can have a greenish cast. Over time, the soapstone will darken to a deep charcoal. Soapstone is very durable, unaffected by heat and is chemically neutral, meaning acids like tomatoes and lemon juice will not damage it. The high talc content makes soapstone softer than other stone counters which leaves it prone to etching and scratching over time.
Marble
Marble is one of the most glamorous materials for kitchen countertops. Bakers love cold marble because it's perfect for kneading dough. Composed mainly of limestone, marble is a soft natural stone so it can stain easily and needs to be sealed periodically.
Butcher Block
Butcher block boasts a warm, natural appearance and is available in numerous wood species and tones. Traditionally used as a cutting surface, knives will scratch it but can be sanded out with ease. Wood surfaces will swell with moisture and can harbor bacteria, for this reason butcher block counters need to be disinfected and oiled regularly. There are also several sealant products available to give the wood a waterproof finish.
Porcelain
A Porcelain slab counter is a high performance material that will not scratch, does not stain, is heat, fire and heavy duty cleaning agent resistant. It is available in numerous colors and patterns and is resistant to extreme weather conditions making it a great option for outdoor kitchen spaces.
Tile
Tile is typically either ceramic or stone, tile is adhered with mortar on a tile backer board and grouted into place. Small grout lines are recommended for easier cleaning and to mask the smaller sized tiles. Stone tiles can be made with the same material used in slabs, like marble and granite, but at a fraction of the cost. Glazed tile is best as it provides a nonporous surface that resists bacteria and stains.