Choosing a kitchen countertop can be tricky, especially for multi-family housing or hospitality projects. You want to select durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of commercial spaces but also appeal to a variety of people who may be using the countertops.
One characteristic that can impact both of those factors is the amount of dirt the kitchen countertop shows on a regular basis.
Even with daily cleaning, kitchen countertops still collect dust, crumbs, and other debris and dirt throughout the day, and most people don’t want to spend their time and energy wiping down the counter multiple times a day.
But with lots of materials to choose from and even more colors and designs, it can be challenging to know what kind of countertops to pick. Here are some comparisons and tips to help make that decision easier for your next commercial project.
Materials
There are many different materials to choose from for kitchen countertops. Depending on the budget, function, timeline, and other factors of a commercial building project, you may choose one over the other. Here are the basics of what you need to know about these materials.
Laminate
Laminate countertops are still one of the most inexpensive materials to use for countertops. They became popular during the 1950s and 1960s as a cost-effective alternative to wood or other materials.
While they might not be quite as popular today as they were then, laminate countertops are still cost-effective and creative options for kitchens today. Plus, the endless possibilities of colors and designs along with easy installation make laminate countertops still relevant today. Most laminate patterns are designed with functionality in mind and include colors and textures that make dirt less apparent.
Some drawbacks of laminate countertops are that they are prone to damage from heat and have a short lifespan compared to other materials. But if you have a limited budget, laminate countertops can be a good choice that won’t require more than regular cleaning.
Butcher Block
Butcher block countertops are as timeless as they are trendy. Made from fusing individual strips of wood together into a sleek and durable slab of wood, these countertops have a rustic, country home feel. And while it is relatively inexpensive to manufacture and install, there are some drawbacks.
This material is highly susceptible to water damage. To function properly in a kitchen, butcher block countertops need to be sealed immediately after installation and monthly from that point on. Unlike the sealing process of some stone materials, all it takes to seal butcher block countertops is a couple of coats of food-safe mineral oil applied with a soft cloth.
If not properly sealed, the wood can warp, collect bacteria, and easily stain. It’s also essential to sand down the surface and reseal it every ten years. This will help eliminate ane dings or surface damage.
Butcher block may not show a lot of dirt due to the different colors and grains of each piece of wood, but it does require a bit more cleaning and maintenance to remain safe and functional.
Marble
Marble is one of the most beautiful materials found naturally in the world and can add a touch of elegance to a kitchen when used as a countertop. And each piece of marble is 100 present unique, so you can be sure no kitchen will be the same. However, marble is costly and comes with some other concerns.
A piece of marble large enough to be used as a countertop is very heavy. This makes installation difficult, especially considering how delicate the material is as well. If marble comes in contact with another hard surface, there’s a good chance it will be damaged. So if you choose marble for countertops, be prepared that it will require extra care. Along with being delicate, marble is easily stained.
The most popular color of marble used for countertops is white, which does tend to show dirt. However, the marble’s texture and grains can help hide everyday grime between cleaning.
Granite
If you are looking for a countertop that is always unique, granite is a great choice. Hundreds of different types of granite vary in color and texture and can be matched to almost any design plan. And with so many options, it can be easy to find a slab that won’t show as much dirt.
It is important to note that for a similar appearance in commercial spaces, the granite used for countertops should come from the same distributor to ensure a similar color and texture. Not all granite can be supplied in high volumes, so check with the distributor before settling on a specific slab you want for your countertops.
Granite is both scratch-resistant and heat-resistant. If granite countertops are correctly sealed, they can also become stain-resistant. The sealing process is an extra step after installation and must be redone every ten years to keep granite countertops durable and polished. Without proper sealing, granite can harbor bacteria and will not last as long.
Granite countertops are beautiful and have been popular for quite some time. As styles have changed, granite tends to have a more dated look, particularly dynamic slabs with intense color or textures.
Quartz
Quartz countertops are non-porous, which means they are incredibly durable and stain-resistant. Because of this tough, non-porous surface, quartz countertops are even antimicrobial – meaning germs and bacteria aren’t able to penetrate the surface of the countertops.
Once installed, quartz needs almost zero maintenance besides regular cleaning with soap and water or a mild cleaning solution. Quartz is an excellent choice for any kitchen design if you are looking for a low-maintenance countertop that won’t show dirt but will endure for years.
Because quartz countertops are manufactured, they can be more customizable than granite or other materials. There are many more colors and patterns available with quartz. It is easier to create a more modern and uniform appearance that might be needed for commercial properties while offering a wide range of options to fit the needs of the space.
Get the best quartz countertops from Superior Commercial Solutions
Suppose you are looking for top-of-the-line, high-quality quartz kitchen countertops with reliable and professional service. In that case, Superior Commercial Solutions can help with your next commercial build, including assisted living, hospitality projects, student housing, or other multi-family builds. Contact us today to see how we can fit your needs, no matter how big or small your project is.