Feb

14

What are the popular kitchen counters these days and how much will it cost me?

Filed Under Brampton, Buy, Condos, Homes, Real Estate, Renovations, Sell, The Numbers 

granite.jpg

In my last article, I touched upon the good sense of upgrading your kitchen to maximize the value of your home. The kitchen serves as the centre of the house, so investing money into the kitchen is a great way to make those dollars work for you. If you’ve ever had the chance to go through different homes in Brampton, you’ll find out that the Brampton real estate market offers a wide range of homes. If you’re a seller looking to stand out from the rest of the listings in your neighbourhood, your upgrades to the kitchen and other parts of the room will make a dramatic difference.

One of the more simpler tasks is choosing a kitchen counter, but with all the choices out there, it sometimes proves to be the most time-consuming one. You’ve probably seen the shows where they explore the various type of counters and what they look like. Now let’s see the pros and cons and what they will cost you.

Ceramic Tiles
The great thing about using ceramic tiles is the sheer variety of colours, styles, and sizes. This type of kitchen counter is highly resistant to heat and wear, and you can choose tiles that will literally match any style of decor you may have. The only drawbacks to ceramic tiles is that they can sometimes crack, as well as get dirty in-between tiles. As there are so many different types of ceramic tiles available, it will cost you anywhere from $15 - $50+ per square foot.

Laminate
Laminate also features an array of colours and styles, and is a cheap alternative to using the pricier materials. Laminates can be made to look like marble or granite and are quite easy to install. However, laminate counters can easily succumb to staining, scratches, and chipping. Expect to pay anywhere from $15 - $25 per square foot.

Stainless Steel
Stainless steel appliances are still hot items in the kitchen, so why not accentuate the room with stainless steel counter tops as well? These counters give your kitchen that modern, trendy look, as well as provide a super durable, heat-resistant and more hygienic counter. You will have to be careful not to scratch the surface, but if you do, it can easily be buffed. Stainless steel counters will run you close to $120+ per square foot.

Butcher Block
This is the same type of hardwood that is used to make chopping blocks. And like a chopping block, it’s highly useful for the kitchen. Over time though, wear and heat will take it’s toll on this surface. It’s also advisable to keep this counter away from sources of water, and have it treated regularly. This type of counter top will cost you around $75 - $100 per square foot.

Marble
Marble has always looked classy and elegant, and coupled with the fact that it’s highly resistant, it’s a great choice for kitchen counters. The only thing to be concerned about is that it can scratch or stain. Be prepared to pay at least $90 per square foot.

Granite
This seems to be the most popular choice these days. With a wide range of colours and high durability, no wonder it’s the most used choice. Just remember to reseal it once a year and it’ll last a lifetime. These granite counter tops will run you between $75 - $110+ per square foot.

If you’re planning to sell your home and your kitchen is outdated, you may want to consider upgrading your kitchen. Take some time to visit a local hardware depot and browse the kitchen displays they have. It may set you back a few dollars renovating your kitchen, but you’ll get maximum returns on your investment. Best of luck!

Popularity: 47% [?]

Comments

2 Responses to “What are the popular kitchen counters these days and how much will it cost me?”

  1. Blue Ridge Georgia Cabin Rentals on February 15th, 2008 8:19 am

    I recently was looking at countertops and was planning on getting granite but ended up with a zodiac product. This product requires no maintenance unlike granite and I found even though it cost a bit more was a great investment.

    A new countertop can make a kitchen seen like it was just remodeled.

  2. Susan Gruenling on February 24th, 2008 9:57 pm

    Granite counter tops are extremely popular here in Arizona. Some people would say that they are too popular. We see them in a large majority of homes it is getting redundant. Recently we have seen homeowners install honed granite which has a nice matte finish. It is still a safe choice but with a fresh twist. Also more contemporary homeowners have been choosing CaesarStone which is a quartz product available in various colors and finishes.

Leave a Reply




Bloggy Award

 Subscribe in a reader

  • Brampton Real Estate Links