Kitchen Countertop Buying Guide

Recently purchased kitchen countertops

Kitchen Countertop Buying Guide

Kitchen countertop design plays a significant role when it comes to making your kitchen look beautiful while also ensuring the best functionality of the kitchen. As we spend a lot of time in the kitchen, having a kitchen you love is crucial. A well-designed kitchen can help you achieve a better workflow and make your experience more enjoyable. Follow our kitchen countertop buying guide to find the right countertop for you.

Choosing a Kitchen Countertop

The right countertop for you will depend on a few factors, including your style and budget. The countertop you choose will be in your home for years to come, so it's important to take the time to review your options thoroughly and find one you truly love. Consider the following factors while shopping for a new kitchen countertop.

Consider Functionality

Every kitchen is unique, and every homeowner's kitchen needs are different. Consider who will be using the kitchen and what type of countertop would work best for everyone. For example, if you have toddlers in your family, consider choosing a countertop that is non-porous to prevent bacteria or fungus from growing. Solid surface countertops like composite and terrazzo countertops will be better for people seeking a low-maintenance option.

Match Your Kitchen's Aesthetic

Your kitchen countertop should also complement or match your current kitchen design. Consider how the look, feel, color and texture of the countertop will integrate into your current kitchen design. For expert advice, consult with a designer to find the best style to bring every design element from your color scheme to your floors together.

Set a Budget

There's no need to break the bank on a countertop as there are plenty of options for each type of budget. Talk to a kitchen countertop dealer about your budget early on to review the options that will work best for you. You'll find quality countertops for every budget when you shop for PKB Cabinetry products.

Research the Latest Kitchen Countertop Options

If you're designing your first kitchen or want to update your space, finding inspiration online from industry professionals and designers is a good idea. Search for current trends and budget-friendly options.

Look at the various options available in the market, such as stainless steel, laminate, marble, granite, soapstone, solid surface and butcherblock. During your research, note your favorite themes, colors, aesthetics and anything else you like along your way. Then, have a detailed consultation with a professional kitchen designer to see how you can bring your ideas to life.

Speak With a Professional Kitchen Designer

Kitchen designers' experience and expert skills will bring your ideal kitchen to life. Plus, they can find you find great deals on the products you love. Overall, consulting a professional interior designer ensures your kitchen will have the right balance of function and beauty.

Request a Sample

Samples will let you physically feel and see the countertop. This is a great way to examine the surface's quality and durability. When you find a countertop you like, bring your sample home to see how it fits with your current appliances, color scheme and other kitchen design elements. 

Consider Durability

As previously mentioned, the functionality of your countertop is crucial. So, when you invest in a new countertop, you'll want to ensure it will hold up for years to come. Talk to your kitchen countertop dealer about different countertop materials' durability and life expectancy. Additionally, ask your provider how you can prevent common damages and extend the lifetime of your countertop.

Ask About Warranty

When you can, it is best to purchase countertops with an included warranty. Your kitchen countertops will experience daily wear and tear, so it's best to be prepared. A warranty ensures that you get a repair or replacement service without spending extra money out of pocket.

Kitchen Countertop Styles & Trends

Kitchen Countertop Styles and Trends

We have already mentioned that the kitchen countertop plays a significant role in the styling of your overall kitchen, but with so many options available, how do you decide? Consider your current kitchen design as well as your lifestyle. What do you like and dislike about your current countertop? This should help guide you to find the countertop qualities that are most important to you.

If you still need inspiration, check out some popular countertop options and styles.

1. Eco-Friendly Composite Kitchen Countertops

Composite countertops are one of the trendiest options out there. This countertop is made from recycled paper and fly ash, making it an excellent sustainable option. This kind of kitchen countertop comes with benefits such as resisting stains and preventing the regrowth of bacteria. It is also effective in avoiding heat and scratches.

2. Terrazzo Countertops

Terrazzo is a fine combination of granite, glass and marble. This countertop material is a timeless option for kitchen designers. It always has a high demand in the market. It is a bit pricier than other options out there, but the durability and low-maintenance qualities make it worth the extra cost.

3. Granite Countertops

This kind of countertop is also a favorite option for a lot of kitchen designers. Granite provides a highly stylish look, excellent durability and a sturdy surface. Overall, granite is known to add luxury vibes to your entire kitchen. However, it is important to note that the daily maintenance for this countertop can be more demanding than for other styles.

4. Custom Countertops

If you're struggling to find the perfect countertop, consider making your ideal surface come to life by creating a custom countertop. Explore different countertop materials like wood, leather, quartz and concrete to create a countertop that perfectly meets all your design and functionality needs.

Rows of kitchen countertop samples and slabs

Consider PKB Cabinetry Products

Whether you're looking to update your countertop or renovate your entire kitchen, you have plenty of PKB Cabinetry products to choose from. When you're ready to shop, find a PKB Cabinetry dealer near you for expert guidance and a selection of high-quality countertops.