Travertine Countertops

Travertine is often compared to marble. It is a natural material in the limestone family. What differs travertine from other limestone is that it is formed in hot springs which leads to holes in the material and a unique texture that add to the beauty and intrigue of the material. It is found in a range of beautiful, earthy tones that can compliment any kitchen. In addition, with proper sealant, travertine countertops are very easy to maintain – just a spray and wipe cleaning product will keep your counters looking beautiful.   

Another appeal is the absolute proven durability of the material. Travertine dates back to the days of the Holy Roman Empire. Parts of the Colosseum are built with travertine instead of marble. 2,000 years later these sections are still holding up. In the recent years, travertine is gaining more and more popularity.

Limestone Countertops

Limestone is a natural material made up of the exoskeletons of coral, shells, algae, and calcium carbonate. It tends to be priced slightly lower than its counterparts, travertine and marble. It is typically found in neutral colors and can brighten up any kitchen with its natural beauty. If you are looking for the classic and timeless beauty of marble at a lower price-tag, limestone might be the material for you.

There are some drawbacks to using limestone for your kitchen countertop material. If you and your family are pretty rough on your countertops this might not be the best choice for your kitchen. Limestone is made of calcium carbonate which reacts to many acidic food items including ketchup, coffee, wine, fruit and more. If spills are left untreated this could lead to permanent staining of your counters. If you want to use limestone in your kitchen you have to be prepared for regular maintenance.  

Concrete Countertops

Another material that you might not consider is concrete. One of the biggest pros to a concrete countertop is that it can become anything you want it to be through dyes and stains. Each slab of concrete countertop is going to poured specifically for your home, so it will be original to you and your home. It boasts a different look than your typical countertops, which is a big part of the appeal.

However, your freedom in design comes at a cost. Concrete countertops are fairly difficult to maintain. It is typically lighter in color which allows the material to easily show blemishes as well as being extremely porous. This material has to be stained regularly, and even with regular sealing, it is almost inevitable that your countertop will experience staining. Concrete counters are more expensive than people seem to believe and can even develop hairline cracking which is tough to fix.

Soapstone Countertops

If you love a darker countertop, soapstone might be the countertop material for you. It is durable, low-maintenance, and most of all, beautiful. Soapstone isn’t prone to staining, though it will darken with use. You don’t have to fear spilling your juice or red wine and causing permanent staining to your countertops. Cleaning is done with just soap and water!

Soapstone comes in beautiful darker hues from greens to greys to blacks and has varying levels of veining depending on your taste. In addition, you can add oils to your countertop for a darker and smoother look. Soapstone countertops make a statement in any kitchen with their dark and dramatic look – we personally love the look of them in a light kitchen.

Here at L&M Design.Build.Furnish, we know that the kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home. When you’re making decisions about your kitchen, whether its a remodel or new construction, we want you to be equipped with as much knowledge as possible to make the best decision. No matter what countertop material you choose, your new kitchen is sure to look amazing.