What To Consider When Choosing Bathroom Countertops
When choosing bathroom countertops, homeowners must balance style, budget and durability. They should choose a material that’s both attractive and tough enough to stand up to daily wear and tear. It’s time to learn how to pick the right one.
Budget
When choosing bathroom countertops, it is important to consider the budget. You want to be sure that you can afford a quality countertop that will last a long time without breaking the bank. Materials that require frequent maintenance, such as natural stone and tile grout, may make the countertop more expensive over time. On the other hand, a low-maintenance material can save you money and keep your bathroom looking great for years to come. Granite is a popular choice for bathroom countertops due to its durability and ease of cleaning. It is also water-resistant, which helps to prevent mold or other moisture-related problems. Ceramic tile is another option for a bathroom counter. It can be affordable and comes in a variety of colors and styles. Wood is a warm and rustic option for your bathroom; however, it can be susceptible to scratches and water damage. It’s also difficult to maintain and can be costly (up to $200 per square foot).
Durability
Durability is a key factor to consider when choosing bathroom countertops. These areas typically see a lot of activity, and countertop materials need to stand up to everything from drops of hair dryers and dripping toothpaste to chemicals from makeup and nail polish removers. Granite is a popular choice for high-end bathrooms because it is durable, resistant to scratches and stains, and heat-resistant. It is also beautiful and comes in many different colors, patterns, and textures. Quartz is another option for those looking for a natural look. It is made from 93% quartz minerals mixed with polymers and resins, which makes it strong, non-porous, and stain-resistant. Ceramic tile is an affordable option that comes in a variety of styles and colors. It can withstand heat and moisture, but requires regular cleaning to prevent grout stains. Laminate is another low-maintenance material that works well in bathrooms because it isn’t porous and can be cleaned with soap and water. However, laminate is not as durable or hygienic as some of the other options on this list, and it can be more susceptible to chipping and cracking.
Style
Style is a big consideration when choosing bathroom countertops. It’s a great way to express your aesthetic taste and add a little something extra to the bathroom. A countertop is a large work surface, so it’s important to pick a material that can stand up to everyday wear and tear. Choose a solid-surface option if you don’t want to have to reseal it frequently, and go for a natural stone if your budget allows. Colors and veining patterns also impact the style of your bathroom countertops. Dark-colored varieties amplify space, while lightly-colored variations open it up and create an airier vibe. Veining patterns are a great choice for small bathrooms because they make them feel light and clean. While thicker veining styles can be dramatic, finer ones project a refined look that’s ideal for contemporary bathrooms.
Maintenance
If you want to make sure your bathroom countertop looks good for a long time, you need to take into consideration the maintenance that comes with it. For example, some materials require resealing on an ongoing basis, while others are harder to keep clean and may show stains or streaks more easily. Granite and marble countertops, for instance, need resealing every six to twelve months. They also need to be cleaned with warm water and liquid detergent. Tiled countertops are another popular option and come in various styles and colors, but they also add the complication of grout lines that need regular attention. On the other hand, quartz, solid surface and cultured marble are easy to care for and have built-in stain resistance. The latter two materials are a bit more expensive than the other options, but they are less likely to suffer damage or stains from chemicals spilled on them.