Countertops

Countertops

COUNTER CULTURE Take Countertops from Blah to Ooh La La

From natural stone to countertops to non-stone materials, Swartz
Kitchens & Baths offers a whole world of countertop options to consider: Granite A natural stone product that comes in myriad colors, shades, and patterns, no two pieces of granite are alike, guaranteeing a unique and elegant look. Granite countertops are ideal for foodies who never have enough cutting boards – the hardness of granite, second only to diamonds, means you can slice and dice directly on it. Be warned, though - granite is very heavy. If you choose granite, we’ll be sure your cabinets can support it! We’ll also seal it to keep it from absorbing stains, something you should continue to do every so often.

Quartz Because quartz is manufactured, there are nearly limitless color variations available. It’s non-porous, so staining and bacteria aren’t an issue – a big plus, especially for homes with young children who are prone to spilling things and more susceptible to illness. Thanks to its “chameleon-like” properties, quartz can be used in nearly any styleof kitchen or bath. For those who like the look of granite but don’t want the maintenance, “granite look-alike”quartz products are a great choice.

Solid Surface Completely solid, and often referred to as “Corian,” which was the name of one of the original manufacturers, solid surface countertops are made of a durable, man-made acrylic which repels moisture. It can also be formed into any shape, allowing for large applications with a seamless, integrated look. Solid surface countertops come in many colors, so if you’ve been dreaming of turquoise countertops, this could be the way to go to. Best of all, solid surface countertops are easy to clean with a little soap and water. Likewise, scratches can be quickly sanded away, making it one of the easiest surfaces to care for. The one downside is that solid surface is not quite as heat resistant as natural stone, so make sure you keep a few trivets on hand to avoid burns.

Laminate This is not your grandmother’s laminate! Old-school laminate looks dated, tacky, and dull, but today’s laminate is vastly different. Thanks to major advancements in photography and production, laminates can now mimic stone, butcher block, and other pricier surfaces, creating an expensive look at a fraction of the cost. Laminate is also low-maintenance, easy-to-clean, and lightweight, making it a great choice for those on a tight budget. It’s also an ideal way to give your counters a temporary facelift while you decide on a long-term solution.