Designing a new kitchen is an exciting step for any homeowner, but many soon feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of decisions facing them. Cabinets, fixtures, lighting, countertops; with so many styles to choose from in each category, it can seem impossible to narrow them down. When this reality sets in, having some guidance can make a big difference in feeling confident enough to narrow it down to the winning choice. We are here to help take some of the stress out of making these choices, so read on to find out the pros and cons of 6 popular countertop materials that are trending in kitchens in Los Angeles.
Quartz
Pros: Quartz is a very low-maintenance material, and because it’s non-porous, it does not need sealing and won’t stain. It’s very durable, as well as heat and chemical-resistant. Quartz also comes in a variety of elegant colors and patterns, some resembling the look of granite and marble.
Cons: Quartz can discolor over time with exposure to direct sunlight. This is something to consider if the windows in your kitchen will unevenly expose parts of your countertops.
Marble
Pros: Marble adds a feeling of luxury to your kitchen, and the striking veins running throughout provide eye-catching interest. Having marble countertops can also increase your home’s value.
Cons: High maintenance. Maintaining a good seal on your marble countertop will be crucial in keeping stains at bay as this material is porous.
Granite
Pros: Granite is a beautiful stone containing striking flecks of color ranging in a variety of hues, making it easy to coordinate backsplashes and cabinets. It is also very durable and can last a lifetime if maintained properly.
Cons: While not as porous as other stones, some granites will need sealing to keep spills from staining your countertops.
Travertine
Pros: With its warm browns and beiges, travertine will bring an inviting feel to your kitchen and add a hint of Old World charm. This material is very durable, and a more cost-effective option than granite or marble.
Cons: Travertine is a porous material requiring sealing and is highly reactive to acidic substances.
Onyx
Pros: When it comes to eye-catching interest, Onyx has it in spades. It’s a rare, amazingly beautiful countertop material, so if you’re looking for something that your neighbor won’t have, onyx may be worth considering.
Cons: Unfortunately, Onyx is not very durable and is very expensive.
Limestone
Pros: Limestone is very elegant, heat resistant, and typically is more cost-effective than marble. Its tans and beiges bring a homey, inviting feel to your kitchen.
Cons: It’s not as durable as other options and can incur damage from hard objects. It’s also porous, so will need proper sealing.
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