There are multiple factors to keep in mind when upgrading your bathroom. One of the most impactful decisions you’ll make is in regards to your bathroom countertops. Explore these five material options before your contractor begins work to help you pinpoint the best fit for your space and needs.

Solid Surface

Solid surface materials are engineered to resemble natural stone. The structure allows for it to be shaped, so it’s possible to achieve the clean-lined appearance of an integrated sink basin. Solid surfaces are easy to care for and less expensive than natural stone, however, if your goal is a luxury appearance, the engineered material has a more artificial-looking quality.

Natural Stone

Natural stone is a luxury, premium choice for bathroom countertops. Choosing stone provides for a truly one-of-a-kind, unique look as no two slabs of the building material look exactly the same. Natural stone does require more upkeep than some other options, as it will need to be periodically resealed.

Laminate

If you haven’t checked out modern laminate, don’t write it off. The material has improved throughout the years and you’ll find laminate available in a wide array of textures and colors. It doesn’t convey the same sense of glam or luxury as other choices, but the price for laminate countertops is hard to beat.

Tile

Opting for countertops constructed of porcelain or ceramic tile allows for a unique design and look. Depending on the type of tiles chosen, this can be a budget-friendly choice. Drawbacks include that they can easily crack and cleaning all of the grout can be hard work.

Cement

Cement is a current trend for countertops. The material provides a modern look that sets your space apart from other bathrooms. Countertops made from cement are strong and durable and should be installed by a professional contractor with ample experience in working with the material.

The options are nearly endless when it comes to designing your dream space. Keep in mind how often the bathroom is used, your budget and the maintenance required before making your final decision. Your remodeling professional can help you choose the bathroom countertops that you’ll love for years to come.

There are many decisions to make when it comes to your kitchen remodeling project, and choosing your new countertops is an important one. There are many things to consider before your contractor installs your new counters, such as your budget, the look you want to achieve and the work you’re willing to put into maintenance. Here are four countertop materials to consider along with the major pros and cons to each.

Natural Stone

The most popular type of natural stone used for countertops continues to be granite, which is available in a wide range of colors. It’s recommended that daily cleanups are handled with a stone cleaner rather than a multi-purpose one. While widespread use and availability have lowered the price of natural stone, this choice will often still be on the pricier end of the options listed here.

Solid Surface

Engineered solid surfaces are an excellent kitchen remodeling choice for their durability. They stand up well to stains and scratches and are repairable in most instances. With an endless variety of colors and designs, you’ll have no trouble finding one that vibes well with your kitchen look. Little maintenance is required for the upkeep of solid surfaces, and pricing can be similar to that of granite.

Wood

Butcher block countertops allow for dicing and chopping right on the material’s surface, and there’s no need to worry about damage from hot pots and pans. Wood is a softer material, so scratches and other marks are to be expected. That well-loved and worn look can certainly add charm to a kitchen, but if you prefer a cleaner look, wood may not be the best choice for you.

Laminate

If it’s been a while since you’ve taken a look at laminate countertops, you may be pleasantly surprised by your options. One of the biggest pluses of laminate is the prices are economical, however, they cannot handle high heat and can suffer damage from hot cookware.

As you can see, there are a number of countertop options available to transform your kitchen. Consult with your kitchen remodeling professional for help in making the best surface decision to fit both your space and needs.

Unless your home was constructed to your specifications, you’re probably dealing with a standard kitchen layout chosen by the original builders. Depending on how that space is constructed, it may not fit your family’s lifestyle. Most kitchens are built from basic templates that allow the homeowner to upgrade and customize small things within the standard design. If that is the case, you could end up needing more space, functionality and conveniences than your stock kitchen provides. Fortunately, a custom kitchen design can solve these problems and give you the features you need with a look that’s truly your own.

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A master bathroom is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. If your home does not have a master bathroom, however, it’s possible to create one from a bathroom that is already present in your home. You’re sure to spend a good amount of time in your bathroom, so you want to make sure your bathroom remodeling goes smoothly.

 

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If you are trying to increase the value of your home, bathroom remodeling is a great place to start. Potential homeowners seem to recognize the value of a new bathroom and after they look at several homes, you want your home to be memorable. So what should you do to update your bathroom?

 

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When you’re remodeling or updating your home you may think going completely modern in the kitchen is the best way to your homes look or value. An updated kitchen is great, but kitchen remodeling should take the home’s character and charm into account as well. If you live in an older home with a lot of original features, it may be just as beneficial to combine those elements with modern ones to create a beautiful, functional kitchen that honors your home’s history while making it great for its current use.

 

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As a homeowner, there are certain things you always aware of: The fact that it seems your house will never be free of projects and there will come a day when you are going to sell it. When taking care of home improvement projects, you want to focus on those that will build equity. The two projects that need to take priority in this venture are kitchen remodeling and bathroom remodeling.

 

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When you own a home, the projects seem never to end. Even if you purchased a relatively new house, over time, it loses its luster. Around every corner, there seem to be things that need be improved. One space in your home that can boost its appeal, both for you and potential buyers down the road is the kitchen. What are some benefits of kitchen remodeling?

 

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