Countertop finishes are essential when designing kitchen and bathroom tops. Here are the pros and cons of varying countertop finishes.
Countertop finishes are one of many considerations when designing kitchen countertops and vanity bathroom tops. Countertop finishes affect a room’s aesthetic. Also, the finish you choose determines the material’s resilience. We always keep you well-informed about different countertop options. Here are the pros and cons of varying countertop finishes.
The Pros and Cons of Polished Countertop Finishes
Polishing a stone deepens and enhances all colors. A polished countertop is reflective, smooth, and available in many materials, such as granite, quartzite, marble, and quartz. This finish is highly durable because it seals the pores found in natural stone. As a result, you prevent staining. Polished marble would be more resilient than hone marble. Furthermore, a glossy countertop finish is ideal if you want your kitchen countertop or vanity bathroom top to have a rich color.
Furthermore, glossier countertops pair well with many different home décor styles, from traditional to modern. Also, if you have a French or Victorian-style kitchen, shiny countertops will complement the detailed, stately design of the cabinets, molding, and light fixtures. A glossy surface also works well with mid-century modern and transitional kitchens.
So, what might you NOT like about a shiny finish? It can appear cold to the touch if you’re a person who cares about tactile (connected with the sense of touch) value. You should touch each finish/material to see what feels right. Also, a sheeny surface is highly reflective, meaning that it has a “mirror shine” where you can see your overhead lights, sunshine through your windows, and smudges.
The Pros and Cons of Honed Countertop Finishes
A honed surface is smooth with a no-shine finish. Honed finishes are also available in most countertop materials, such as granite, marble, quartzite, and quartz. Also, you’ll find that soapstone countertops mostly come in honed finishes. Slate is also a refined, honed accenting feature you can use throughout your home. A honed countertop is perfect if you want to add color to your home without making too large of a statement because honed countertops are subtler than polished countertops. A blue or green countertop won’t look as vibrant or gaudy if it’s matte.
Additionally, a honed countertop is the better option if you prefer not to see reflections. You also won’t have to worry about seeing smudges or fingerprints. Some honed countertops can also look more modern than their shiny counterpart, pairing well with contemporary, rustic, or industrial-style kitchens. Matte surfaces blend perfectly with any style that depends on more raw, unfinished elements.
Why might a matte countertop not be the best option for you? Depending on the type of stone, a honed surface might not be as durable or resistant to etching, staining, and scratching. Also, you might prefer a more vibrant finish. In this case, a polished countertop would be the better option.
The Pros and Cons of Leathered Countertop Finishes
A leathered finish, an antiqued or brushed finish, is soft and slightly textured. Granite, quartzite, and soapstone are available in this finish. This option works well if you enjoy the feel of soapstone but want the low-maintenance granite and quartzite offer. Leathered granite and quartzite are more scratch-resistant than soapstone. An antiqued finish is best for you if you want a countertop with a soft, welcoming feel. The only con is that leathered finishes are comparable to honed finishes in that they might make some surfaces less durable.
How to Choose Between the Three
It depends on your style preference and how much you care about maintenance. If, after reading this content, you’re still unsure of a clear winner, we encourage you to give us a call or visit our showroom so we can walk you through your many choices.
QUESTIONS ABOUT HOW TO ENHANCE YOUR HOME WITH STONE?
If you have questions regarding countertop or fireplace trends, Rock Tops Fabrication is here to answer them. Our trained professionals are here to make sure that your new kitchen is designed and finished exactly the way you want it. We service Maryland, DC, and Virginia. Feel free to give us a call at 410-363-4257. For more information, tips, and tricks, and to see what we have been up to, be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest, and Houzz.