5 Questions to Ask When Choosing Your Memphis Kitchen Countertops
When choosing kitchen countertops in Memphis, TN, there are numerous factors to consider. Your needs, preferences, and budget must be carefully assessed to select the best fit for you.
Viewing all available materials, styles, and price points is crucial to determine the perfect material for your project. Continue reading for your guide to finding the best countertops Memphis offers.
Choosing Kitchen Countertops in Memphis, TN: What Types of Materials Can be Used?
You have many options to choose from when searching for the perfect kitchen countertops in Memphis, TN, each offering unique benefits. Some popular options include:
- Granite
- Quartz
- Marble
- Sintered Stone
- Quartzite
Let’s take a closer and more detailed look at each of these options to better understand their characteristics and their suitability for different kitchens.
Granite
Granite is an exquisite natural stone material with an eye-catching appearance. It is highly durable and heat resistant, and its elegant aesthetic makes it suitable for high-traffic kitchens. Granite Countertops in Memphis come in various colors and patterns to give your kitchen its distinctive style.
Quartz
Quartz countertops are manufactured using natural quartz crystals and resin, producing an easy-care surface with customizable options that require little or no upkeep or sealing – perfect for busy households. Quartz countertops are available in various colors and patterns, adding flair to any kitchen design scheme.
Marble
Marble countertops are renowned for their luxurious and elegant appearance. With striking veining patterns and a soft color palette, marble adds a touch of sophistication to any kitchen. However, marble is a more soothing natural stone. It requires more maintenance than granite or quartz, including periodic sealing to protect against staining and etching.
Sintered Stone
Quartzite
What are the Installation Costs for Kitchen Countertop?
The installation cost when choosing kitchen countertops in Memphis, TN, may vary significantly depending on the material selected. Here is a general overview of the installation costs for granite, quartz, marble, solid surface, and laminate countertops:
- Granite costs $50 – $200 per square foot, including the to-be-used materials and labor costs.
- Quartz costs $50 – $150 per square foot, including the to-be-used materials and labor costs.
- Marble costs $60 – $200 per square foot, including the to-be-used materials and labor costs.
- Sintered Stone costs $60 – $130 per square foot, including the to-be-used materials and labor costs.
- Quartzite costs $70 – $150 per square foot, including the to-be-used materials and labor costs.
It’s important to note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as color, demand, thickness, and labor costs in your area.
How do you Maintain Kitchen Countertops?
Granite
Quartz
Marble
Sintered Stone
Quartzite
Which Material is Best for Kitchen Countertops?
Determining the best material for kitchen and bathroom countertops depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Each material has advantages and disadvantages, so consider factors such as durability, maintenance, aesthetics, and cost when making your decision about which countertop would be best for you.
In this section, we will discuss the durability, maintenance, aesthetics, and price of each material for countertops to help you better understand the pros and cons of each so that you have great knowledge in not only choosing the best material for your kitchen but also for your bathroom remodel in Memphis.
Granite
Durability: Granite is a highly durable natural stone resistant to heat, scratches, and stains when adequately sealed. It is ideal for high-traffic kitchens and can withstand daily use.
Maintenance: Granite countertops require periodic sealing to maintain their non-porous surface and protect against stains. Regular cleaning with a mild soap and water solution or a cleaner specifically designed for granite is recommended.
Aesthetics: Granite offers a unique and stunning appearance with various colors and patterns. No two slabs are identical, ensuring a one-of-a-kind look for your kitchen.
Price: Granite countertops in Memphis typically cost between $50 and $200 per square foot, including materials and installation.
Functionality: Granite countertops are heat-resistant, making them suitable for placing hot pots and pans directly on the surface. They are also compatible with under mount sinks, providing a seamless and elegant appearance. The hardness of granite means that it is not easily scratched, maintaining its pristine appearance over time.
Quartz
Durability: Quartz countertops are constructed using engineered quartz crystals and resin, producing a tough-wearing, stain-proof, non-porous surface that resists staining and provides stain resistance without pores for stain absorption. Furthermore, quartz is less prone to chipping or cracking than natural stones such as marble.
Maintenance: Quartz countertops require minimal care for their carefree beauty, with only periodic cleansing with mild soap and water or a cleaner specifically made for quartz. For best results, use only cleaners specifically formulated to clean these surfaces.
Aesthetics: Quartz countertops come in various colors and patterns, making them highly customizable for any kitchen design.
Price: Quartz countertops typically cost between $50-150 per square foot, including materials and installation.
Functionality: Quartz countertops are non-porous and stain-resistant, providing a hygienic kitchen solution. Though heat-resistant, trivets or hot pads should still be used as protection on the surface. Like granite, quartz can also accommodate under-mount sinks.
Marble
Durability: Marble is a softer natural stone prone to scratching, chipping, and staining if not properly maintained. It is also susceptible to etching from acidic substances.
Maintenance: Marble countertops require regular sealing to protect against staining and etching. Clean them with a mild soap and water solution or a cleaner specifically designed for marble.
Aesthetics: Marble countertops are known for their luxurious and elegant appearance, featuring striking veining patterns and a soft palette.
Price: Marble countertops typically cost between $60 and $200 per square foot, including materials and installation.
Functionality: Marble countertops offer a beautiful and functional surface for baking and food preparation, as the stone remains cool. However, due to its susceptibility to staining and etching, it is essential to be cautious with acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar.
Sintered Stone
Durability: Sintered stone is an ultra-compact surface made from a combination of natural materials, offering high durability and resistance to heat, scratches, and stains.
Maintenance: This material is low maintenance and does not require sealing. Clean with mild soap and water or a non-abrasive cleaner.
Aesthetics: Sintered stone is available in various colors and patterns, including options that mimic the appearance of natural stone.
Price: Sintered stone countertops typically cost between $60 and$130 per square foot, including materials and installation.
Functionality: Sintered Stone is known for its high heat, scratch, and stain resistance, making it an ideal choice for busy kitchens. Additionally, it requires low maintenance with no sealing needed and is UV-resistant, ensuring colors and patterns remain vibrant over time. The eco-friendly nature of Sintered Stone further adds to its appeal.
Quartzite
Durability: Quartzite is a highly durable natural stone resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. It is similar in durability to granite.
Maintenance: Quartzite requires sealing every few years to maintain its stain resistance. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is sufficient for daily maintenance.
Aesthetics: Quartzite often resembles marble in appearance, with unique veining patterns and various colors.
Price: Quartzite stone countertops typically cost between $70 and$150 per square foot, including materials and installation.
Functionality: Quartzite is a natural stone with exceptional heat and scratch resistance, making it well-suited for high-traffic kitchens. While not as stain-resistant as Sintered Stone, it offers good stain resistance when properly sealed and maintained.
What are the Factors to Consider When Choosing a Countertop Material?
As stated above, the factors you can consider when choosing a material for your countertop are:
- Durability: Consider how much wear and tear your countertops will be subjected to, and choose a material that can withstand the demands of your kitchen.
- Maintenance: Assess how much time and effort you will invest in maintaining your countertops. Some materials, like quartz and solid surface, require minimal upkeep, while others, like marble and wood, need more regular care.
- Aesthetics: Choose a countertop material that complements your kitchen design and personal style. Consider factors such as color, pattern, and texture.
- Price: Determine your budget for countertops, considering the cost of materials and installation. It will help you narrow your options and make a more informed decision.
- Functionality: Consider your kitchen’s specific needs, such as heat resistance, scratch resistance, or compatibility with under mount sinks. It will help you choose a material that meets your functional requirements.
When choosing kitchen countertops in Memphis, TN, you must consider different factors, including durability, maintenance, aesthetics, price, and functionality. When exploring your options, visit local suppliers and showrooms to see a wide range of materials and styles.
Contact Us!
At Southern Stone, we take pride in our high-quality materials and expertise in helping you find the best solution for excellent long-term results. If you want to upgrade your home with beautiful Memphis countertops, call us at 662-265-8132.
Our team would love to answer any questions and help you find the perfect countertops. Let us help you create the kitchen of your dreams. Trust Southern Stone & Cabinets for all your stone countertop and cabinet needs.