If you're planning on remodeling your kitchen, or if you're interested in upgrading the countertops in your kitchen because of wear and tear, it's important that you research all of your options before investing in a new set of countertops. These days, there are dozens of materials to choose from, but not all materials offer the same benefits. In this article, I'll walk you through the pros and cons of some of the most common types of countertops so that you can make an educated decision on which type is right for your remodel.

How to Choose the Best Countertops for Your Modern Kitchen

Research your materials.

The first step is to research countertop materials. You can find a wide variety of options at home improvement stores and kitchen design studios, including granite, quartz, and laminate. Some materials are more expensive than others, but many have similar durability ratings and are easy to install.

You should also consider whether you want a solid surface or one with texture. A solid surface is smooth and offers little resistance; it's easier to clean, but stainless steel and laminate may be more durable. A textured surface, like granite, has a lot of visual appeal but can be difficult to keep clean.

Choose a color and style you like.

If you're going to remodel your countertops, you'll want them to be a focal point in your kitchen. That means choosing a color and style that appeals to you. If you're unsure of what style would look good in your home, take some time to browse through home redesign magazines and websites that feature beautiful kitchens. You can also visit local showrooms and take note of the styles that appeal to you.

Pick out the right edge profile for your remodel.

The most common countertop edge is a square edge, but there are many others to choose from. The most popular are:

Square: A classic look that’s easy to clean and maintain.

Rounded: Adds elegance, but may not be as easy to clean.

Beveled: Creates a more transitional look between cabinets and countertops.

Splayed: Creates a modern design that’s great for open-concept kitchens where you want to see the entire kitchen from every angle in one glance.

Don't forget to measure!

When measuring for new countertops, it's important to get an accurate measurement of your existing ones so that you can order the correct size for your space. Use a tape measurer to measure across the surface of your current countertops — make sure that you include any overhang above the cabinets if applicable. Write down these measurements so that when you're ready to order new ones, they'll be easy to find!

Standard Kitchen Cabinet Dimensions

Consider level of maintenance required.

Before you begin, it is important to consider the level of maintenance required. Some countertops can be very high maintenance, while others can be low maintenance.

Countertops come in many different materials, so it's important to know how each one will hold up over time. Granite and marble are popular because they're easy to maintain and look great, but they're also quite expensive. If you want something more affordable but still attractive, consider quartz or engineered stone. These materials don't require sealing or polishing like granite does, and they're less expensive than marble as well.

Concrete and glass are two examples of materials that are low-maintenance. These materials are easy to clean and are not susceptible to stains or scratches. Granite and marble are also low-maintenance materials that work well with most kitchen styles.

Remodeling countertops can be a fun way to change the look of your home without a full kitchen remodel!

There are many benefits to remodeling your countertops. Not only does it add visual appeal, but it can also increase the value of your home. You do not need to spend a lot of money to make changes – simple additions such as surface color or texture can transform your kitchen!

How much is all of this going to cost? How Much to Remodel a Kitchen