The kitchen and bathroom are begging for new countertops. You’re torn over what to use.
At some point in time, particularly if you have been in your house for a long time, you are going to want to do something with the countertops. Let’s face it, you do all kinds of things on them, including using a knife without a cutting board, putting down cups or containers with wet bottoms that stain (like red Koolaid sweating glasses) or spill something across the top that you forgot to wipe up. The countertop pays the price and over time, it starts to look like it’s been used a whole heck of a lot – because, it has.
You want to do something about new countertops, but don’t know what kind of material to use or even if you are able to afford it. Times are tough and making decorative changes in your home is expensive so many people put it off. Think resale value of your home later if it has been updated to feature more modern countertops.
There are a number of choices you could go with, including wood, granite and Tampa marble. Wood in the kitchen isn’t a wonderful choice because you can imagine the kinds of implements you use on that work space. Wood in the bathroom, while quite quaint in appearance, runs the risk of absorbing too much moisture and swelling. Wood in a workroom may be alright, but it depends on what you use the workroom for; e.g., if it’s sewing, wood might be just the right touch.
No, if you want durability, elegance and something that is eye appealing, then you might want to consider marble. It’s attractive and does an exceptional job of making your rooms look fabulous. Most often, it is the material of choice for bathroom and kitchen countertops. A marble countertop really adds a touch of charm to your home.
While marble does stain easily, you should remember that it is not hurt by heat; something you work with daily in the kitchen. If being porous is a problem, that can be solved with stone sealer and if you take a bit of extra time to wipe off acidic juices, foods or wine that spills on the countertop, you won’t get the etching associated with acid. So, if you carefully maintain your marble, it will keep its good looks, and you will save yourself some grief later.
The best tip ever, since you’re in the kitchen with your gleaming Tampa marble countertop, is to use mild dishwashing liquid mixed with warm water and rinse it off well. Really easy to do and it’s right there in front of you, and you don’t have to go get something special to do the deed. Another easy marble cleaning tip is a baking soda and water solution. Use 4 cups of warm water and mix in 3 tablespoons of baking soda. Use a soft cloth and dip it into the solution and then wipe the countertop. Leave it to dry for about two hours and wipe clean with water.
The choice is yours and the cleaning and maintenance is pretty easy too. Marble might be the best choice, depending on what you want to accomplish in your kitchen or bathroom.
Dean Dupre is with Champion Tile, a Clearwater Flooring, Tampa Flooring, and tile installation company. To learn more, visit Champtile.
