At the kitchen counters, expenses can quickly rise and that is why we present here 3 materials that are affordable and that do not involve sacrifices in relation to the quality and appearance of the product.
Ceramic tiles
The tiles are made from clay, which undergoes a process of transformation at high temperature to become ceramic. The resulting product is known for its durability. A tile counter will withstand many cleanings, acid products and contact with hard or sharp objects.
Another notable advantage: ceramic tiles are available in a wide range of colors and textures. Traditionally, the tiles take the form of a square, but some companies offer other formats: rectangle, hexagon, mosaic, etc.
Depending on the visual effect desired for the decoration of the room, it is possible to choose between a matte finish and a shiny finish. The shiny finish is slightly easier to maintain. The surface of the tile can be cleaned with a damp cloth, however, the grout between the tiles can give a little more twist. In this case, the use of a small metal brush is recommended.
The wooden counter
Wood is a timeless material that brings a lot of warmth to the ambiance of the room. For a kitchen counter, be aware that wood is a little less resistant than other materials because it is sensitive to moisture and it tends to scratch easily. However, this does not detract from the fact that this is a good option. Precisely, if you like the style "large cutting board", you can cut your food directly on the surface. The scratches will then be part of the desired style. Be careful, however, to clean the surface on a regular basis if you practice this type of use. And above all, do not cut meat directly on the counter!
There are several species of wood that are used to make counters, but experts recommend that species that are known for their strength, such as oak, teak or beech, be preferred. If the surface is well protected, the wood offers a good level of resistance against heat.
The laminated counter
The laminate is extremely affordable material (on average, between $ 5 and $ 25 per square foot for a counter). Waterproof and easy to wash, the laminate is also very durable, and this, in contrast to its reputation as a low-end product. Laminate, which resembles laminate, is made from chipboard, wood fiber or plywood sheets. A protective plastic layer is then applied to cover the surface.
As for ceramics, the laminate is offered in a wide range of colors, patterns and textures. You like the look of wood, but do not want to pay more? You will certainly find a laminated countertop that recreates almost perfectly the desired style.
These three kitchen countertop materials are among the most affordable on the market. On average, you will be able to spend less than $ 100 per square foot for your counter (not including installation). If you are looking to transform your kitchen without spending a fortune, then choose these 3 options instead of choosing more expensive products.
