We offer a wide range of services for that fresh look, or just maintenance or updates to keep your home functioning and safe. Regardless of the size of the job, we have a craftsman that can tackle it. We offer a wide range of services for that fresh look, or just maintenance or updates to keep your home functioning and safe. Regardless of the size of the job, we have a craftsman that can tackle it.
Remodeling / July 21, 2023
Upgrading your kitchen countertops can boost the property value, make your cooking space more functional and enhance your home’s aesthetics. Of course, finding the right material takes some research, as there are many options at various price points. It’s essential to balance affordability and quality, as today’s investment can save money tomorrow. Before you contract kitchen remodelling services in Vancouver, take a look at the top countertop choices and their benefits.
Stainless steel workspaces have been used in food service forever, and now homeowners are embracing this material’s strength and chic appeal. Steel countertops are incredibly durable, with a 20-year average lifespan.
However, even with this durability, experts don’t recommend using it as a cutting board. Doing so can create scrapes and nicks. If the surface gets too scratched up, it will need buffing to remove the marks and sealing to prevent further damage. Using a proper cutting board will help you avoid this expense and inconvenience.
On the plus side, stainless steel is heat-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about setting down hot pans without a pot holder. It’s also rust-, stain- and water-resistant, so you can clean it without worrying about water absorption. Finally, steel’s non-porous nature means you don’t have to be concerned with bacteria hiding under the surface, making it a perfect surface for handling raw foods.
Marble is highly sought-after for its beautiful appearance, which makes your kitchen look elegant and timeless and increases the overall property value. However, homeowners should note that this natural stone is expensive, though it doesn’t cost as much as stainless steel. Of course, many people find it worth the investment since properly maintained marble can last 50 years.
Unfortunately, this countertop material is relatively high-maintenance:
Keeping up with this maintenance is essential for extending the life of your countertop and keeping your food safe. Since marble is porous, it can absorb liquid from raw meats, and the accompanying bacteria can flourish below the surface, potentially contaminating future food.
Sealing your marble prevents this issue. It can also limit staining, as marble tends to discolour when it absorbs pigmented liquids such as red wine. However, just to be safe, you should still clean up spills immediately.
Porousness aside, marble makes a good kitchen counter for its heat resistance. Like steel, it doesn’t warp or melt, and the surface stays relatively cool, making it an excellent pastry-working surface.
Laminate countertops are one of the most affordable options since they’re made of plastic, making them the perfect choice for low-budget home renovations. Their synthetic nature also means you can find counters in many designs, including those that mimic natural stone or wood. You can even find options in vibrant colours, allowing you to match your kitchen to your personal style.
Unfortunately, laminate doesn’t last as long as the other materials listed. Even top-tier laminate countertops don’t last more than 15 years, meaning you may pay more in the long run.
The good news is that laminate is stain-resistant and relatively low-maintenance. If you have kids or are a little messy when cooking, this can be a boon. However, this material isn’t heat-resistant, so you’ll need to be careful with hot pans or risk damaging the surface. Damaged laminate usually requires complete replacement, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Handyman Connection is the “handyman near me” you’ve been looking for. Our team of professionals can help you remodel the kitchen with services like countertop installation, flooring repair and cabinet hanging. Get your free estimate today by calling or contacting us online.