Durable is the name of the game. Since bathroom countertops see a lot of action, the best choice is a non-porous countertop surface. The last thing you want is a countertop that will stain with everyday use of bathroom products. Stains will ruin the countertop, which, aside from a beautiful shower or tub is the bathroom’s most beautiful design and focal point. The countertop completes the picture, drawing the eyes upward from the tiled floor and connects the design of the cabinets, walls and fixtures. As mentioned above, it is most important to choose a non-porous countertop, but other than that, the choice comes down to personal taste; the design preference of the homeowner. Some owners will prefer, for instance, a marble countertop for its attractiveness. Remember however, that marble will stain. A few other countertop choices follow:
Tile Tile can be beautifully installed- positioned in many designs. It can be designed to match or complement the backsplash and is very durable. Though tile is resistant to stains, there is a concern with grout. Grout lines can become an issue if spills occur. Epoxy and acrylic grout is more resistant to staining and sealing the grout is also a good idea. Dropping utensils could result in a cracked tile. This isn’t as big an issue in the bathroom as it is in the kitchen. Tile is available in multiple shapes, sizes and colors.
Granite Granite is an elegant and upscale choice for a bathroom countertop. There are many, many choices available to the consumer, and nothing is more durable. Granite is also stain resistant, but it must be sealed to increase durability.
Quartzite Like granite, quartzite is a naturally occurring rock that is mined and sawn into slabs for manufacturing countertops. Believe it or not, quartzite is harder than granite, so obviously, it is very durable. However, it isn’t totally scratch resistant and it has to be sealed. It takes a bit more attention than granite, as it has to be resealed once or twice a year. Proper sealing will reduce the chance of staining.
Quartz It may sound the same, but quartz is not to be confused with quartzite. Quartz isn’t as hard, and it is more flexible as it is manufactured with resin (plastic). It can be poured into a variety of molds, producing different shapes for countertops. Quartz is available in more colors than quartzite because pigments can be added. It is also easily maintained.
Laminate A laminate countertop can take on the appearance of a solid surface, such as granite or quartzite. It also has durable qualities. Over all it is stain proof, and is not negatively affected by the constant barrage of water incurred in the bathroom. A laminate countertop will dent, and blow dryers, curling irons and other heating tools should be used carefully. Laminate countertops will burn.
Wood Wood countertops are primarily used in the kitchen, but can also be an attractive choice in the bathroom if properly and carefully installed. It is imperative that wood countertops are sealed. Special attention should be paid to seams surrounding the sink and faucet. The fixture areas are prone to water leaks if not properly sealed and deteriorating wood will be the result. Hopefully that provides clarity on the most common options available for the counter top surface in your bathroom. If you are feeling inspired to make a change be sure to ask more questions from your supplier about the specific options you are considering. Happy Renovating!