Gubuntu Bloggery

Remodeling a kitchen requires more attention to detail than remodeling any other room in the house. First, the overall layout needs to be considered: galley shape? U-shape? Island? Square? Next, thought has to be given to what appliances will be placed where: not only to make movement between the refrigerator, sink, and stove efficient, but also to make use of existing plumbing and gas hookups. Next, consideration of the specific types of appliances and the specific materials used in the kitchen has to be considered. Perhaps the most important material decision that is made is a decision about what material should comprise the counter tops. Kitchen counter tops are by far the most material choice made because there are so many pros and cons to different materials.

Counter top comes in a few major category of materials: wood, metal, tile, stone or composite. Wood counter tops are the friendliest towards knives (they won’t dull them) but are prone to bacterial infection and discoloration; though they are very inexpensive and can easily be made to look new with an occasional sanding. Metal (stainless steel) counter tops are the chef’s choice because they are easy to keep clean and can withstand the heat of pans. Detractors point out, however, that metal counter tops are often unattractive and will dull knives so a cutting board must always be used. Tile is attractive and heat proof but will crack and dull knives. Stone, like granite, is both heat resistant and impervious to knives (though it will done them) it will never discolor, is fairly easy to maintain, but is very expensive. Composites like Corian combine the best elements of stone with a lower price tag and great knife-friendliness but are less attractive. Even more materials are options – concrete, slate, plastic, and others fill out the confusing world of material choices.

As you can see, the counter top decision is the most complicated but also the most important, since counter tops are the most essential part of every kitchen, which is arguably the most essential room in every house. That’s why it’s worth considering your options thoroughly, even though it’s a pain in the…you know what.