White countertops exude refinement and significantly improve the vibe of your kitchen, making it lighter, more spacious, and inviting. If this is what you need, you need to choose the right type of countertop.
To help you out, here are the common types of white kitchen countertops that you can go for.
White marble
Marble is the most opulent option for white kitchen countertops. The countertop is inherently cold to the touch, making it ideal for bakers and individuals who live in hot areas, and it is the whitest natural stone available.
Despite being a durable surface, marble has one significant disadvantage: it is susceptible to acids. Lemon juice and vinegar can scratch the surface, while coffee and alcohol can leave persistent stains.
Because you’re purchasing marble by the slab, you must consider how differences in veining will appear when installed in your house.
Pricing is determined by the slabs’ size and the marble’s source. True Italian marbles, such as Carrara, Calacatta, and Statuario, attract premium costs because they are both beautiful and more durable.
Lower-cost marble from other countries (such as China) can be stunning but “softer” than Italian marble.
Quartz
Most quartz countertops on the market are engineered quartz, a combination of the mineral and other elements added for strength. (This is commonly referred to as Silestone or Caesarstone.)
Engineered quartz is long-lasting, stain-resistant, and typically slightly cheaper than genuine stone. Because it is a man-made blend of materials, it is available in a wider variety of colors, finishes, widths, and thicknesses than real stone slabs.
Prices vary based on the options available. If you want a counter that looks like marble, choose Silestone’s Calacatta Gold design.
Quartzite
Quartzite and quartz are significantly distinct, despite their similar-sounding names. Quartzite is a natural substance quarried and sold in slabs; it is as strong as granite and has a comparable appearance to marble.
Acidic foods and drinks, however, can etch the substance, just like with marble. The prices of the countertops vary depending on style and size.
Solid surface
Acrylic countertops can be manufactured to seem like a variety of materials, including marble and stainless steel. Corian is one of the most popular brands of solid-surface countertops.
Counters made of this material are seamless and rather sturdy, however they are prone to scratches. They are also less heat-resistant than other materials.
This calls for you to use trivets and coasters. Prices vary by brand and type. It’s up to you to buy those that are ideal for you.
Laminate
The most cost-effective option for white countertops is laminate, made by bonding sheets to plywood or particleboard. Laminate is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including marble-like finishes like Wilsonart’s Calcutta Marble Laminate.
Laminate countertops, like solid-surface counters, should not be exposed to high temperatures. You also should keep the coasters handy at all times.
There is no right or wrong countertop material to install. It all depends on your preferences. You should research and find a material that is most ideal for you.
Things to think about when installing white kitchen countertops
When you are installing the countertops, there are several things you should think about. These things include:
Cabinets
You need to consider the type of cabinets you will install to give your countertops and kitchen the elegant look they deserve.
If you are confused about the right choice to go with, you can’t go wrong with white cabinets.
The combination of white cabinets and white counters produces a timeless, classy appearance. This combination creates a sense of serenity and order, making your kitchen appear larger, brighter, and more welcoming.
Monochrome white kitchens are a perennial popularity with designers and homeowners alike. The consistent color palette provides a sense of continuity, resulting in a smooth transition between the different kitchen areas.
While the white-on-white kitchen design is great, it necessitates meticulous planning. To avoid your kitchen appearing flat or sterile, explore the various textures and finishes. It’s also wise to consult a professional to help you out.
Stains
Despite their beautiful appearance, white countertops have one major drawback. They tend to be less durable. For example, while beautiful, marble countertops are not the most durable option. It is prone to staining, particularly from acidic liquids such as lemon juice or alcohol.
To avoid stains, make it a habit to clean spills immediately after they happen. This is especially vital when the spills happen on porous surfaces such as marble. To clean, use a soft cloth or sponge and a light soap. Avoid aggressive cleaners, which might harm the surface.
Regularly sealing the countertops can also help avoid stains. Sealants form a protective barrier that keeps liquids from seeping into the substance.
For harder stains, use a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, wait a few minutes, and gently wipe it off.
Due to this, you need to be ultra-cautious and ensure that you don’t cause any harm to your surfaces.
To extend the life of the countertops, you need to give them a lot of care. You also need to seal them regularly to protect them from staining.
Backsplash
Many homeowners underestimate the value of a well-planned backsplash and kitchen tile decision. If you are installing white countertops for the first time, you should note that these details may make or break the overall look of your kitchen with white countertops.
A backsplash is not only practical, shielding your walls from spills and splatters; it is also an important design feature. The backsplash in a kitchen with white counters can provide color, texture, and intrigue.
It’s critical to select a backsplash that matches your white worktops. You can go for a subtle, neutral color like beige tiles or a bright, contrasting hue.
Consider the material and pattern of your backsplash tiles. They should match your countertops and other kitchen pieces to create a unified effect.
When selecting tiles for white countertops, keep the entire kitchen design and your preferences in mind. You could match the white tile to the white marble countertops NC for a smooth, homogeneous look, or go with a contrasting color for a more vibrant kitchen design. It’s all up to you.