Countertops for Kitchen Islands and Peninsulas

When you prepare, cook, and serve meals, you’re heavily reliant on the countertops you have installed. But apart from functionality, the kitchen countertop can also affect the overall visual appeal of your space. This is why if you look at the best kitchen designs, you will notice how much emphasis this kitchen surface feature is given. 

In this article, we’re particularly tackling the best countertops for kitchen islands and peninsulas. 

Corian Solid Surface

Corian’s solid surface is a staple in many articles that discuss kitchen peninsula ideas. Made from a mixture of pure acrylic polymer and natural minerals, this easy-to-install countertop material is popular for its superior durability. 

Corian-made countertops also boast a seamless countertop design. As a result, you can avoid having visible seams that takes away from the aesthetic appeal of your island or peninsula. Also, since it is non-porous, no maintenance sealing is required. 

Corian is stain-, moisture-, and heat-resistant. It can withstand temperatures up to more than 212ºF temperature levels. Corion is extremely sanitary. Cook with confidence as you prepare meals. The material can be easily cleaned and sanitized without leaving behind any residue of perishable food particles. To keep this countertop material clean, you can simply use soapy water or a detergent solution that uses safe amounts of ammonia. 

You also would not have to worry about scratches because its very design can help minimize the appearance of scratches. If a scratch does appear, it can often be repaired with the use of an abrasive pad. 

Quartz

Quartz is also the go-to choice of many homeowners who want a highly functional kitchen island or peninsula. This material is known for its long lifespan. When maintained well, Quartz countertops can even last a lifetime. 

Like Corian, quartz countertops are also non-porous. Because Quartz is impermeable, it too is stain-resistant and less prone to harboring bacteria and germs. 

When comparing quartz vs corian the lower cost of Corion is often the differentiator. Quartz is one of the more expensive options of man-made countertop materials, and when you are covering a large countertop area on a low budget, choosing Quartz can be the more expensive option. 

Granite

When looking for the best kitchen designs in Hamilton NJ, granite countertops are also a popular choice. They are made from slabs of igneous stone, which give their enviable durability and natural appeal. But while they are hard and heat-resistant, they’re still non-porous. Unlike Corian and quartz, they’re more vulnerable to viral and bacterial growth. 

Their appearance is characterized by having graining patterns that add to this material’s unique look. Many homeowners assume that granite often is limited to darker grey color hues. The truth is that this natural material is available in a kaleidoscope of colors. Each vendor would have its own unique inventory of granite slabs and it is best to see the options in person before the stone is cut to your specifications. 

You also have to be careful when cleaning kitchen with granite countertops. You should use soapy water and avoid solutions or cleaners with acidic content. Consult with an eco-friendly kitchen designer for ideas on the proper cleansers to use with granite.

Installing Kitchen Countertops Requires an Accurate Template

When it comes to getting new granite countertops for kitchens, homeowners need to get the sizes and edges just right. Many homeowners try to do this on their own, but the only way to ensure perfection is to hire a professional to do it. Have a professional create your countertop template so that you are happy with your new kitchen design for years to come.

Select the Material

The first thing a professional will assist you with is picking out the materials. There are hundreds of possibilities out there, and it is tough to narrow down the choices on your own. However, you can tell a professional what you need out of a countertop, and he or she will recommend the best substance for your needs and often show you samples and swatches.

Map Out Previous Countertop

Often a kitchen designer will work with a professional installer to map out your current kitchen countertops. This will serve as the base guideline for what the new countertops’ dimensions need to be. If there are changes to the equipment, cabinetry and appliances, the kitchen designer for new kitchens will develop the template after the big decisions are made. In the event your old countertop does not have the dimensions you want, then adjustments will be required.

Shape and Cut

Once the template is drawn out and you are happy with the results, the professional will cut the slab of material to the desired dimensions. This is done with a laser-guided saw that comes with a diamond-tipped blade. This ensures the material is cut smoothly and to very exacting specifications.

Remove Sink and Appliances

Prior to the installation, the professional will remove the kitchen sink and all appliances. You will want to leave this deconstruction work to professionals because you can do serious damage if you do not know what you are doing. The professional will use the proper equipment to get the structures out of place, minimizing any damage to your appliances.

Detach Old Countertop and Backsplash

Professional contractors understand how countertops are assembled to cabinetry and walls. Experts in the industry will also know how to properly discard the countertop material, ceramics from a backsplash and adhesives. Some materials can be recycled while caustic adhesives may present a danger to landfills where your normal trash is deposited.

Install New Countertop

Make sure that your professional is bonded and insured before you hire him to install your new kitchen countertop. This way, if there are errors made in the cutting and installation process, you are not on the hook for replacement costs. The goal at this installation stage is to ensure it is installed correctly so that it does not have to be altered in any way for several decades to come.

Talk to a kitchen designer in NJ when you are in need of new granite countertops for kitchens. The new countertops often improve the appearance dramatically while raising resale value. Take your time with countertop design, and review all your options before committing to anything.