Counter Tops

 Let’s talk counter tops.
One of the biggest selling points for a home tends to be the kitchen. Kitchens can run up a very high bill when remodeling and most do not have the extra funds to put towards a full remodel after shelling out the money to purchase a new home. If you are thinking about replacing countertops do your research first! Find out what’s in style, the cost, and care.
 
We chose a few popular countertop styles and researched the durability, care, and price for each one to help with your decision if considering replacing counters. You will find that Quartz prices and ratings are almost apples to apples. The only true difference between the two materials is man-made material vs natural. Think of Quartz as a lab created diamond and Granite a genuine diamond without the significant price difference.
 
Quartz
Consumer Reports Rated 84
Man-Made
Price: Ranges from $50-90 per square foot + installation costs
Stains: 4/5
Cutting: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Abrasion: 2/5
Cleaning: Regular cleaning should be done with mild soap and a soft cloth. Quartz countertops are non-porous which makes them resistant to bacteria and stains however, bleach can damage the surface or cause permanent discoloration.
 
Granite
Consumer Reports Rated 81
Natural Stone
Price: $50-90 per square foot + installation costs
Stains: 4/5
Cutting: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Abrasion: 5/5
Impact: 2/5
Cleaning: Warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly or use a 50:50 solution of isopropyl alcohol and water. Windex, bleach, vinegar, or any other acidic substances will dull the granite and weaken the sealant.
 
Concrete
Consumer Reports Rated 40
Price: $25-75 per square foot + installation
Stains: 5/5
Cutting: 1/5
Heat: 2/5
Abrasion: 3/5
Impact: 1/5
Cleaning: Concrete is naturally porous and should always be sealed to protect from scratches, stains, and absorption. Cleaning with regular soap and water should be sufficient and nothing more abrasive than a dish sponge is needed. Penetrating Sealer preferred over topical sealer.
 
Butcher Block (Varnished)
Consumer Reports Rated 37
Price: $20-60 per square foot + installation
Stains: 5/5
Cutting: 1/5
Heat: 1/5
Abrasion: 1/5
Impact: 1/5
Cleaning: Spray white vinegar on the surface of wood counters and let it sit for several minutes. Rinse off with clean sponge or damp rag. 

Keep these things in mind when designing your Pinterest-worthy Kitchens!