Countertops: Materials Galore Part 3

Planning a kitchen or bath renovation? Then your countertops and surface selections will be part of the decision-making process. We’ve covered key information about natural and engineered stone surfaces, as well as wood countertops. There are other materials to consider and that’s what we’re sharing now.

METALS

Stainless steel is a popular choice for the chic, industrial look, but there are many other metals to consider:

• Bronze

• Zinc

• Copper

• Pewter

• Brass

Metal provides opportunities for creativity with a variety of finishes from brushed to hammered. Sculpted edges are possible with metals, too. We love combining metal with another material like stone or glass or concrete.

CONCRETE

Concrete has been gaining in popularity. Although some consider it part of the stone family - as it is a combination of sand and mortar mix with color and other elements (I.e. silica) for a personalized look. Concrete countertops can be quite durable, but they must be waxed or sealed. Easy to clean and maintain, one of the drawbacks is that concrete countertops can crack. The good news is that a professional can fix cracks. Concrete offers a rustic or industrial look and have become more common in recent years. We work with several professional concrete surface fabricators.

GLASS

Another choice for kitchen, bath and bar surfaces is glass. Cast glass is surprisingly durable as is glass block. One of the best elements of glass (and some stones) is the ability to light it from below and create a stunning illusion of glowing glass.

TILE

Although not as common as it once was in New England, tile countertops are still used, especially in American Craftsman style homes and those with a Southwestern vibe. More often, ceramic and porcelain tile is used on backsplashes in kitchens and baths.

Whatever your countertop preference, the team at KitchenVisions can guide you to the perfect solution for your project.