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Replace a Kitchen Countertop

A new kitchen countertop can add to the look and feel of your kitchen and improve its functionality. The material choices for your new countertop differ in aesthetic appeal, maintenance required, resilience, and applicability. There is something for every homeowners taste and budget.

Comparison of Materials

To select the most suitable material for your new kitchen countertop, it is advisable to have an idea of each of their properties so that you can make an informed purchase.

Laminate: Laminates are made of slender sheets of plastic of varying thickness. Formica is a commonly used laminate. Laminates can replicate the look of other materials, such as granite. It is an inexpensive material, available in a large variety of colors, patterns, and surfaces, the edges can be square or rolled, and the material is resistant to staining and easy to clean.Laminates have some disadvantages as well. Their finish can get spoiled due to heat; so hot pots and utensils should not be placed on a laminated surface. Cleaning liquids with strong chemicals too can damage the surface. A laminate is not useful as a cutting surface as it scratches easily; therefore, it is advisable to mount a chopping board. Once damaged, a laminate can not be repaired, but must be replaced. Flat edges of a laminated surface tend to chip. Laminates do not present a seamless appearance, particularly the lighter shades. This is because the backing is dark in color. Scratches and abrasions will show on a high gloss surface, but not on a patterned laminate.

Tile: Tiles are a relatively inexpensive way to add color and character to your kitchen. They are available in a variety of sizes ranging from 1 to 18 square inches.. Tiles are primarily made of glazed ceramics; the glazing renders tiles resistant to dampness, soiling, and scuffing. Tiles give you the freedom to design your kitchen countertop in the most creative of ways. They can be arranged vertically, diagonally, or horizontally. Tiles offer a range of texture and pattern options. However, the grout used between the tiles soils easily, is susceptible to mildew attack, and requires frequent cleaning. Tiles are not very resistant to impact and often chip easily, they are slightly more expensive than laminate, the use of epoxy grout, which has the benefit of being more resistant to soiling can add to the cost.

Corian: Corian is a brand name for a solid surface kitchen countertop material. It has been available for the past 30 years. Unlike laminates, a solid surface comprises a single block of plastic. Solid surfaces are durable, available in a range of colors, matte and gloss finish, the seams are not prominent, and therefore they present a uniform look. Solid surfaces can mimic the look and feel of stone. They resist staining, are non-porous, and can be cleaned easily with mild soap. Damaged surfaces can be repaired with the help of repair kits that are readily available. Most brands offer transferable warranties. The major disadvantage of opting for solid surfacing is its price. The installation has to be executed by a certified installer. In addition, the surface can be damaged by heat and can be scratched under certain circumstances.

Granite: Granite is the most widely used stone for countertops. Its feel and character are imitated by several synthetic alternatives but never quite equaled. Granite is extremely durable, scratchproof, and heat resistant. Therefore, it eliminates the need for installing trivets or a chopping board. It offers a wide selection of natural colors in polished and matte finishes. It can be cleaned with soap and water, a special cleaner for removing stains is recommended.

Granite has a few disadvantages as well. It is expensive, heavy and requires professional installation. It requires periodic sealing to avoid staining and has visible seams. Granite tiles are an inexpensive option to installing a slab; however, the grouts require regular cleaning in order to maintain sanitation.

Other options in stone worktops include limestone and marble. Limestone offers limited color choice but has high heat and impact resistance. Marble provides a nonstick surface; it can be used for baking too. However marble is porous and discolors easily.

Quartz: Quartz is a beautiful natural material that is tough and durable as well. Silestone and Cambria are quartz countertop surfaces. Quartz offers several advantages when compared to other countertop materials. It provides greater scratch and scorch resistance as compared to plastic surfaces. It also does not require resealing and provides better stain resistance than granite. Quartz is available in a range of colors and offers many edge design options. Since, quartz is an engineered product the colors are more uniform than natural surfaces such as granite. It is also an approved surface for food preparation by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) in the United Sates. Quartz countertops have seams but these are slender and when installed properly are hardly noticeable. Most of the manufacturers provide a 10-year warranty for the material.

Wood and Butcher Block: Wood is another natural surface that is favored for the character it can add to your kitchen. Wood is an ideal cutting surface, as it does not blunt the knife-edge. A wood countertop is prepared by gluing together strips of rock maple or beech wood. Wood is easy to care for and lasts long. However, designs and edge details for a butcher block should not be too intricate as they are difficult to clean. A thorough scrubbing is required after using the butcher block for raw meat. Periodic sanding and oiling help to remove the scratches that appear over time. Wood also requires regular sealing treatment.

How long does it take to install a countertop?

The time taken to install a countertop will vary with the material. Heavier materials, such as granite and quartz will take more time for a proper installation. A pre-formed laminate kitchen counter can be installed in approximately 2-3 hours. With most installations, there are always some adjustments to be made since on many occasions' factors such as, the walls not being plumb or the cabinet surface not being level come into play. If the countertop is fabricated onsite the process may take 2 days or more, as the sealing and finishing take time to set.

Copyright 2008 by ABCD Publishing

About the Author

Dan Fritschen, Publisher at ABCD Publishing, is a consultant to both individuals and businesses who are trying to decide whether to remodel or move. ABCD publishing currently owns two helpful websites, www.remodelormove.com and www.remodelestimates.com.

trivet tile - Pack of 24 $32.26 A wooden, tile stylized, trivet. Painted white with an herb garden depiction in the center. The trivet measures 7 1/2" x 7 1/2" and has foam feet on the bottom. Comes with a UPC code label. Dimensions:. Length: 9. Height: 9. Width: 9

trivet tile Pack of 24 $41.47 A wooden tile stylized trivet. Painted white with an herb garden depiction in the center. The trivet measures 7 1/2 x 7 1/2 and has foam feet on the bottom. Comes with a UPC code label. Dimensions:. Length: 9. Height: 9. Width: 9

Pfaltzgraff Napoli Trivet $14.5 Napoli trivet by Pfaltzgraff. A trivet will protect your table or countertop from the heat of a hot dish. 8 1/2" dia.

Trivet Guy $18 This amazing modern man-trivet holds up all your hot pots and pans to protect precious wood, granite and contemporary marble surfaces. Metal with rubber pads.

Blizzard Trivet $3.99 Winter is the season for warm meals, hot tea and? snowflakes! The Blizzard Trivet by Design Ideas is a great way to add a festive touch to your table this holiday season. Made of felt, this trivet protects your table and countertop from scorch marks. Wipe with a damp cloth to clean.Features: • Made of felt • Festive snowflake design • Wipe with damp cloth to cleanSize: 9"diameter

Personalized Photo Trivet $14.99 This trivet is both functional and beautiful with your photo as its centerpiece. The 7?-inch square cast-iron trivet and durable photo tile easily stand up to the heat from pots and pans. Photo

EP-TRIVET Wine Cork Trivet $40.95 Drinking the wine is only half the fun Recycle your favorite corks and showcase your adventures by creating your own trivet Itrsquos simple fun and will protect surfaces from hot cookware The kit comes with a finished hardwood frame complete with bac...

Walk of Fame Star Trivet $8.99 Use this Walk of Fame ceramic trivet for hot pots or just for decoration. Includes hook on back for hanging. Measures 6x6".

Irish Blessing Hot Plate And Trivet $10.99 Freeze it to keep cold dishes chilled during a meal, or place a drop of cinnamon oil on this etched porcelain trivet and the heat from a dish will bring out a wonderful aroma. Can also hang. Dishwasher and freezer safe. USA. 6 sq.

Tao of Meow: /Trivet Pets Tile Coaster by CafePress $10 Tao of Meow yin yang cat design adorns this coaster/trivet. Pets Tile Coaster Liven up any room or party with our fun, hip tile coasters, measuring 4.25 x 4.25 and 1/6-inch thick. Images are applied with a polyester resin that accepts dye as part of the coating. Four felt pads protect your furniture from scratches. Dish

Alessi Tripod Trivet $55 The Alessi Tripod Trivet transforms the tabletop with an elegant and artistic design for serving hot dishes. Designed by Gabriele Chiave, the Tripod Trivet looks like a jewelry item with jack-like trivet pieces strung along a metal rope. The pieces slide along the rope to provide an appropriately-sized trivet for pots. Pots not included. Alessi is an Italian company. Its corporate mission is to bring a utopian priority to affordable, high design for the home and office. Chrome-plated Zamak. Four trivet pieces on one rope. Adjustable size. Designed Gabriel Chiave. Measures 1.3"H x 23.6"L. Type: Specialty Tools and Gadgets Color: Multi-Color

Tripod Trivet by Alessi $53 The Alessi Tripod Trivet transforms the tabletop with an elegant and artistic design for serving hot dishes. Designed by Gabriele Chiave, the Tripod Trivet looks like a jewelry item with jack-like trivet pieces strung along a metal rope. The pieces slide along the rope to provide an appropriately-sized trivet for pots. Pots not included. Alessi is an Italian company. Its corporate mission is to bring a utopian priority to affordable, high design for the home and office. The Alessi Tripod Trivet by Alessi is available with the following: Included Features:Chrome-plated Zamak.Four trivet pieces on one rope.Adjustable size.Designed Gabriel Chiave.Shipping: In Stock items ship within 1 business day. Others usually ship within 2 weeks unless otherwise noted. Dimensions: Item: Height 1.3 In., Length 23.6 In.

Epicureanist Wine Cork Trivet Kit $24.99 Showcase your favorite wine corks with this trivet kit that features a finished hardwood frame to hold the corks you supply in place. The finished trivet can be placed under hot cookware to protect your countertop.

HOT Stainless Steel Trivet. $4.99 These eye catching trivets are a great way to protect your surfaces from heat damage in an interesting, stylish way.Pack of 2.Stainless steel with .Size L18.5, W15, D1.5cm.

FLEX Trivet by Blomus $7.1 Serve hot foods with confidence using the Blomus FLEX Trivet. Twisting and turning to accomodate standard-sized pots and pans, this fun trivet easily protects vulnerable surfaces from heat. Great for opening stubborn glass jars, or use as a coaster. Features stainless steel, silicone and plastic. Blomus, headquartered in Germany, specializes in the design and manufacture of beautifully engineered home and office accessories in modern stainless steel styles. The Blomus FLEX Trivet is available with the following: Details:Made of silicone, plastic, and stainless steelFlexible, twistable constructionShipping: This item usually ships within 2-3 business days. Dimensions: Item: Overall Diameter .4 In., Length 18 In.

JUSTIN Trivet by Blomus $37.34 The Blomus JUSTIN Trivet stands out among its contemporaries with its expandable frame. Made of stainless steel with a glossy finish, the trivet can accomodate hot containers up to 17.5" long. From Floz Design. Blomus, headquartered in Germany, specializes in the design and manufacture of beautifully engineered home and office accessories in modern stainless steel styles. The Blomus JUSTIN Trivet is available with the following: Details:Made of stainless steel Expandable up to 17.5"Designed by Floz DesignShipping: This item usually ships within 2-3 business days. Dimensions: Item: Length Adjustable from 6 In. to 17.5 In., Height .8 In., Width 8.7 In.

Augh! Expanding Trivet by Alessi $100 The Alessi Augh! Expanding Trivet makes a delightful showpiece while providing a safe resting place for hot dishes. The Augh! Expanding Trivet was designed by Donato D'Urbino and Paolo Lomazzi and features steel. Alessi is an Italian company. Its corporate mission is to bring a utopian priority to affordable, high design for the home and office. The Alessi Augh! Expanding Trivet is available with the following: Included Features:Mirror-polished Steel.Expandable joints.Designed by Donato D'Urbino and Paolo Lomazzi.Shipping: In Stock items ship within 1 business day. Others usually ship within 2 weeks unless otherwise noted. Dimensions: Item: Diameter 9.4 In., Height .5 In.

Pescher Extensible Trivet by Alessi $100 A fancy fish trivet, the Alessi Pescher Extensible Trivet is a delightful seaside inspired showpiece that provides a safe resting place for hot dishes of many sizes. The Pescher Extensible Trivet was designed by Paolo Lomazzi and Donato D'Urbino in 2003 and features stainless steel. Alessi is an Italian company. Its corporate mission is to bring a utopian priority to affordable, high design for the home and office. The Alessi Pescher Extensible Trivet is available with the following: Details: Made of stainless steelExpandable jointsDesigned by Paolo Lomazzi and Donato D'UrbinoShipping: In Stock items ship within 1 business day. Others usually ship within 2 weeks unless otherwise noted. Dimensions: Closed: Length 10.5 in., Width 5 in. Open: Length 17.5 in., Width 5 in.

Arbor Trivet by Reed & Barton $35.99 Fresh and organic, the Arbor Collection by Reed & Barton brings practicality and panache to the table. Dramatic, nature-inspired shapes cast in durable, polished aluminum make this casual serveware collection a welcome addition to any table setting. Protect tabletops from hot and cold dishes with this versatile Arbor Trivet. This heirloom-quality holloware trivet will take center stage, holding a delectable array of appetizer, desserts and entrees. This gleaming piece looks fantastic on your dinner or buffet table and allows you to serve your delectable dishes in classic style! With a dramatic nature-inspired leaf pattern that create an elegance to the piece, this trivet is the perfect way for the discerning hostess to serve tasty dishes while protecting her table or countertop. A decorative handle makes the trivet easy to move, even with a pot or dish on top.This trivet makes a great wedding gift for the bride and groom. Be sure to add this lovely piece to your wedding registry. Your guests will be pleased to present you with such a fine piece of holloware.Features: • Exquisite polished aluminum trivet • Decorative handle for easy carrying • Dramatic nature-inspired leaf design perfect for servingSize: 12 1/2"wide x 7 3/4"deep

Large Trivet by Polder® $20.99 This large trivet makes an elegant serving piece. The design keeps hot dishes off the counter top. This wonderful trivet has rubber feel so it wont scratch your counter. Features: • Made of steel • Rubber feet to prevent scratching • Elegant serving piece • Finish: Brushed steelSize: 19 3/4" wide x 10 3/4" deep

Small Trivet by Polder® $9.99 This small trivet makes an elegant serving piece. The design keeps hot dishes off the counter top. This wonderful trivet has rubber feel so it wont scratch your counter. Features: • Made of steel • Rubber feet to prevent scratching • Elegant serving piece • Finish: Brushed steelSize: 10 3/4" wide x 10" deep

Menu Propeller Trivet Red $20 The Menu Propeller Trivet designed by Jakob Wagner has aerodynamic wings which flip open to form a stable x-shaped base that supports hot or cold dishes, then, flips back into a slim baton for easy storage. The Propeller Trivet is made of silicone which can withstand temperatures up to 500?F and is dishwasher safe. Designed by Jakob Wagner Type: Specialty Tools and Gadgets Color: Red

Vinotemp EP-TRIVET Wine Cork Trivet Kit $45 Drinking the wine is only half the fun. Recycle your favorite corks and showcase your adventures by creating your own trivet. It s simple, fun and will protect surfaces from hot cookware. The kit comes with a finished hardwood frame, complete with backing, glue and sandpaper. Dimensions: (10. 4 x 8. 6 (26. 4cm x 22. 2 cm)).

KNIK Trivet by Blomus $12 After you've enjoyed your hot meal, it's easy to clean up and put away with the KNIK Trivet. With four interconnected, foldable arms, simply bend to the center for compact storing. Features silicone, plastic and stainless steel. Blomus, headquartered in Germany, specializes in the design and manufacture of beautifully engineered home and office accessories in modern stainless steel styles. The Blomus KNIK Trivet is available with the following: Details:Made of silicone, plastic and stainless steelFolds up for storageOptions:Color: Black, Blue, Green, Orange, or Red.Shipping: This item usually ships within 2-3 business days. Dimensions: Item: Length 8.7 In., Height .6 In., Width 8.7 In.

Twigz™ Bronze Trivet $9.49 Decorative and versatile, the Twigz Bronze Trivet helps to protect your countertop and table from the damaging effects of heat. Made of sturdy metal wire, this trivet is equipped with 4 round feet so your pots, pans, and plates never need to touch your countertop. The elegant twig and leaf design with a stunning bronze finish will add flair to your kitchen décor. Features: • Sturdy metal wire construction • 4 feet keep hot pans off surfaces • Elegant twig and leaf design • Color: BronzeSize: 1?tall x 7 1/2?diameter

Mikasa 5058200 Winterberry trivet $17.43 Winterberry is the holiday classic that brings this timeless motif to life in elegantly sculpted dinnerware & serveware, beautiful glassware and joyous giftware. A handpainted, stoneware trivet will protect your table or countertop from the heat of a hot dish and add a decorative accent. Complete your Winterberry collection with dessert bowls, serving trays, wine goblets and more. Materials: Earthenware. Individual Dimensions: Trivet is 8" dia. and comes in a gift box. Care and Use: Dishwasher safe. Caution: do not subject to sudden or extreme temperature changes; recommend cooling in dishwasher before removing.

Wooden apple trivet - Pack of 24 $37.3 Protect delicate surfaces from hot pots and pans with this wooden apple trivet. Has an attractive design that will compliment any decor. Trivet is made with wood and is in a fun apple shape. Comes in a shrink wrap package. Measures 8 1/4" x 8". Dimensions:. Length: 9. Height: 9. Width: 9

Wooden apple trivet - Pack of 96 $93.89 Protect delicate surfaces from hot pots and pans with this wooden apple trivet. Has an attractive design that will compliment any decor. Trivet is made with wood and is in a fun apple shape. Comes in a shrink wrap package. Measures 8 1/4" x 8". Dimensions:. Length: 15. Height: 15. Width: 15

Wooden apple trivet - Pack of 48 $57.15 Protect delicate surfaces from hot pots and pans with this wooden apple trivet. Has an attractive design that will compliment any decor. Trivet is made with wood and is in a fun apple shape. Comes in a shrink wrap package. Measures 8 1/4" x 8". Dimensions:. Length: 12. Height: 12. Width: 12

Wooden apple trivet - Pack of 72 $70.42 Protect delicate surfaces from hot pots and pans with this wooden apple trivet. Has an attractive design that will compliment any decor. Trivet is made with wood and is in a fun apple shape. Comes in a shrink wrap package. Measures 8 1/4" x 8". Dimensions:. Length: 13. Height: 13. Width: 13

Wooden apple trivet Pack of 24 $47.95 Protect delicate surfaces from hot pots and pans with this wooden apple trivet. Has an attractive design that will compliment any decor. Trivet is made with wood and is in a fun apple shape. Comes in a shrink wrap package. Measures 8 1/4 x 8 . Dimensions:. Length: 9. Height: 9. Width: 9

Wooden apple trivet Pack of 48 $73.48 Protect delicate surfaces from hot pots and pans with this wooden apple trivet. Has an attractive design that will compliment any decor. Trivet is made with wood and is in a fun apple shape. Comes in a shrink wrap package. Measures 8 1/4 x 8 . Dimensions:. Length: 12. Height: 12. Width: 12

Wooden apple trivet Pack of 72 $87.19 Protect delicate surfaces from hot pots and pans with this wooden apple trivet. Has an attractive design that will compliment any decor. Trivet is made with wood and is in a fun apple shape. Comes in a shrink wrap package. Measures 8 1/4 x 8 . Dimensions:. Length: 13. Height: 13. Width: 13

Wooden apple trivet Pack of 96 $120.72 Protect delicate surfaces from hot pots and pans with this wooden apple trivet. Has an attractive design that will compliment any decor. Trivet is made with wood and is in a fun apple shape. Comes in a shrink wrap package. Measures 8 1/4 x 8 . Dimensions:. Length: 15. Height: 15. Width: 15

Heart Quilt Butterfly Framed Tile by CafePress $15 quilt, hearts, homespun, tile, tile coaster, tile box, bee,keepsake box, framed tile, fabric, trivet, hot plate, vitalfinds, bumble bee, flowers, butterfly Butterfly Framed Tile Set off our decorative ceramic tile in its own stylish stained wooden frame -- the perfect way to complete a decorative gift or keepsake. Rounded edges and quality construction make this Framed Tile the ultimate wall accent. Frame measures 6qu

LOVE CONQUERS ALL or Trivet Art Tile Coaster by CafePress $10 This highly detailed 4.25quot; design - which incorprates Celtic knotwork along with calligraphy - can be used as either a coaster, trivet, or decorative tile. Art Tile Coaster Liven up any room or party with our fun, hip tile coasters, measuring 4.25 x 4.25 and 1/6-inch thick. Images are applied with a polyester resin that accepts dye as part of the coating. Four felt pads protect your furniture from scratches. Dish

Heart Quilt Butterfly Tile Coaster by CafePress $10 quilt, hearts, homespun, tile, tile coaster, tile box, bee,keepsake box, framed tile, fabric, trivet, hot plate, vitalfinds, bumble bee, flowers, butterfly Butterfly Tile Coaster Liven up any room or party with our fun, hip tile coasters, measuring 4.25 x 4.25 and 1/6-inch thick. Images are applied with a polyester resin that accepts dye as part of the coating. Four felt pads protect your furniture from scratches. Dish

Pescher - Stainless Steel Extensible Trivet $95 A functional and fun trivet crafted from stainless steel with stylized fish shapes, that can be pulled to be placed under any sized hot object. Design D'Urbino-Lomazzi 2003, Made in Italy.

Cactus! Round Trivet by Alessi $74 A casual chic way to set out hot pots and pans. The Alessi Cactus! Round Trivet, measuring just under 7", features a laser-cut design characteristic of the iconic collection by Marta Sansoni and CSA. Match with the Cactus! Condiment Set and Paper Napkin Holder for a unified look in the modern kitchen. Alessi, known as the Italian design factory, has manufactured household products since 1921. The stylish and fun items offered are the result of contemporary partnerships with some of the world's best designers of unique and modern home accessories. The Alessi Cactus! Round Trivet is available with the following: Details:Made of 18/10 stainless steel Laser-cut designMirror Polished finishDesigned by Marta Sansoni and CSAShipping: In Stock items ship within 1 business day. Others usually ship within 2 weeks unless otherwise noted. Dimensions: Item: Diameter 6.89 In.