Kitchen Cabinet Countertops
Choosing a
kitchen cabinets countertop can
be fun or perplexing. Besides the familiar laminate countertops that have
been the industry kitchen cabinets standard for decades, we now also have a multitude of solid
core, stone and butcher block countertops to choose from. Which one is
right for you? That depends on the budget and what your needs are.
Laminate countertops
The typical laminate countertops for
kitchen cabinets now are
up to 400% more durable than they were just ten years ago. They are more
resistant to scratching scuffing and burning. They also come in a huge
variety of colors, textures and patterns and finishes.
Let's talk about finishes. There are three
main types of finishes. Gloss, semi-gloss or satin and textured.
Gloss finish is very shiny. It can
mimic with great success, stone like polished granite and marble on your kitchen
cabinets. It is,
though more durable than in the past, the finish that is most prone to
scratching and scuffing. It also can show wipe marks more often. So,
using this finish above your kitchen cabinets in front of a window or strong light is not usually a good
idea. Using a light color will help hide wipe marks. This is a
finish you would prefer in an area where your kitchen cabinets get the least amount of use.
Using counter protectors on your kitchen cabinets is a good idea with this finish.
Semi-gloss or satin finishes on your
countertops are more
durable and easier to keep clean because they don't show wipe marks as easily
and are more resistant to scratching and scuffing. This finish is the most
popular for today's kitchen cabinets. Expect to get many years of service out of a laminate counter
with this finish on you kitchen cabinets countertops..
Textured finishes on your
countertops can add a lot of
interest, but are harder to clean if the texture is very deep. In a deep
texture, dirt and grime can settle into the bottom of the grooves, wrinkles or
patterns and be a nuisance to clean. Another problem in high use areas is
the tendency to wear on the high spots of the texture. This finish on your
kitchen cabinets countertops works
best in a low light, warm setting like bars and game rooms.
Solid core/surface countertops
Solid core or solid surface countertops
are used mainly where you want to eliminate any visible seams in your. They are as
durable or more durable than laminate
kitchen cabinets countertops but lack the obvious seam line
that laminate kitchen cabinets counters inherently have. Sinks and drop levels can be
incorporated into one visibly seamless kitchen cabinets countertop. They can also be
repaired. This is because the color and pattern goes all the way through
the surface. Expect to pay more for this kitchen cabinets countertop material.
Butcher block countertops
Wooden kitchen cabinets countertops are obviously not as durable
as other materials. So, don't expect them to be. But, they actually
get better looking as they get older. As scratches and wear begin to take
their toll, butcher block counters become more interesting and warm feeling.
They are re-finishable and can last for many years. Still us a cutting
board for slicing meat and vegetables. It's much easier to scrub the
bacteria out of a cutting board than out of your kitchen cabinets counter. There is some
labor involved in the upkeep of butcher block kitchen cabinets countertops. Follow the
manufacturers recommendations on care. This material goes well
with country or rustic lodge style kitchens.
Stone countertops
Stone kitchen cabinets countertops usually are you most
expensive but most durable. Nothing says wealth and class like stone or
marble on your kitchen cabinets. The most important aspect of stone is the installation and
finishing. Choose a contractor with lots of experience and a excellent
reputation.
Kitchen Cabinet Depot
Sales/Customer Service 866-272-3176 toll free
Fax 877-847-8552 toll free fax
