Choice and tips for the care of stone countertops for the kitchen

Repair in the kitchen, as a rule, involves the installation of a kitchen unit. Natural or artificial stone is often used to decorate countertops. The choice of the type of stone countertop with a sink depends on many circumstances. What material to prefer, to install a natural or artificial countertop "under a tree" or "under a stone", how to properly fit it into the interior - you will learn about all this from our article.

Depending on the material used, natural countertops are divided into several types.

• Marble. The surface of such countertops is cold, the pattern is very elegant and original. Their color depends on the composition of various inclusions. More budget types are distinguished by yellow and white-cream colors, luxury options are painted in shades of black and burgundy with exquisite veins.
• Granite. Extremely hard material with virtually no wear and tear. The color scheme is incredibly varied, the surfaces of the countertops are distinguished by a gloss like a mirror.

• Quartz. They consist of a composite type material, harder than granite, almost 100% of the composition is quartz and some resins. The material is very difficult to process, therefore it is rarely found.
• Onyx. The basis is a high-strength natural stone, expensive and very refined, perfectly fitting into any interior. A distinctive feature is a unique glow, flicker, which gives the product an incredible status look.
• Gabbro. A variety of granite-diamond countertops with a unique coating. Possess a unique shine. Their distinctive features are long service life, durability, lack of wear. A huge advantage is the unique natural print.

Artificial analogues are divided into the following types.

• Quartzite. Otherwise, they are called agglomerate. Their composition is predominantly quartz chips processed by a vacuum press at a high temperature. The composition also contains a variety of pigments. Polyester resins bind the entire composition.
• Acrylic. In fact, it is a pigment bonded with an acrylic-type resin. This is the budget and most popular option. Does not require complex maintenance, the surface is smooth.

Before deciding on the material for facing the countertop, you need to weigh the pros and cons of each option.

Marble has a stunning appearance, an exclusive natural print, and its lifespan is almost unlimited if properly cared for. Minor damages can be easily removed by polishing.

Among the disadvantages should be noted the structure of the porous type, which is susceptible to dyes: wine, juices, coffee. In addition, traces of hot dishes may remain. It is destroyed by the action of any acids, chemicals. The very high price also negates the advantages of the material.

Granite resists moisture, temperature, minor mechanical damage, scratches well. He is not afraid of acids, chemicals, the service life is very long. However, granite is completely beyond repair in case of mechanical damage. Any scratch will be a reason to replace the countertop.

Outwardly, artificial analogs practically do not differ from their natural counterparts, but at the same time they are much cheaper.

• Agglomerate it is resistant, durable, so it is not afraid of high temperatures and scratches. This material is not porous, so moisture cannot be absorbed. You can choose a completely different structure: bumps, matte, glossy. It is unpretentious in leaving.

• Acrylic incredibly easy to clean: just wipe it down with a damp cloth and soapy water. Chips are rare for acrylics and can be sanded down. The material gets along well with moisture, does not spread fungus, mold. Of the minuses, it should be noted sensitivity to high temperature.

The choice of a stone countertop is largely influenced by the design style of the kitchen. The stone looks perfect in a variety of interiors.

• Classical. An excellent option for decorating a kitchen in this style is to combine a work surface, a bar counter, a dining island under a stone countertop made of green marble or an imitation of malachite. As a decor, carving will be appropriate, giving a status look to the entire interior.
• Modern. It is distinguished by smoothness and flexibility, everything should seem to flow from one to another. The sink goes to the work surface, the work surface goes to the hob and so on. Most of all, imitation of natural materials, for example, "under a tree", is appropriate here.

• Empire style. This is a luxurious classic, strict, clear lines and shapes are inherent in it. It is best to choose fittings in gilding or bronze, overhead decor is appropriate. Shapes of a circle, oval should be avoided, everything should be as prim and strict as possible.
• Rococo and Baroque. Choose marble of light shades, the shapes of interior items require elegance and lightness. Round sink, oval table, rounded corners of the countertop. Pretentious decorative elements are good here: overlays in the form of leaves, shells.

• Provence. Countertops that imitate the structure of pebbles, sand, granite will look especially good here. This is a very expressive style, but at the same time simple and as natural as possible.
• Eco style. The main distinguishing feature is natural colors. Countertops and interior items of green, brown, beige colors are appropriate. The form of execution is the most laconic of all possible. Scandinavian restrained design is very close to eco-style.

• Loft. This direction is urbanistic, it is distinguished by the combination of rough brutality and presentable-status furniture. A graphite countertop that does not draw attention to itself is the ideal choice.
• Pop Art. Suitable for lovers of catchy modern design, eclecticism. absolutely contradicts all classical norms, any canonical interior. It is bright and practical enough at the same time. The table top can be a contrasting accent of such an interior.
• High tech. Combines all the latest technology with the aesthetics of materials. The combination of a snow-white dining table with a black work surface is very interesting. The perfect solution is to combine brown and green colors for a calm, non-annoying interior.

Everyday care makes it possible to extend the life of the countertop, save it from the need for replacement or repair.

• Artificial coatings, for example, are not afraid of any detergents, chemical components, high temperatures, but avoid acidic compounds when treating any surface.
• Use coasters for hot items.
• Marble countertops "love" polishing with velvet fabrics. Requires high temperature protection.Be sure to purchase cutting pads to avoid scratches.

• Granite requires any liquid spilled to be wiped up immediately. Purchase a pH neutral product to treat the surface as soon as possible after any staining liquid has been spilled. Ideally, after installation or directly in front of it, granite countertops are impregnated with a special compound. If crumbs or food particles adhere to the surface, soak them first. Then rinse with a dishwasher-safe solution.

For information on how to care for a stone countertop for a kitchen, see the next video.