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Wood vs. Granite: Which Countertop is Right for My Kitchen Renovation? | Creekstone Designs

Written by Jesse Burke-Allmon | Jul 15, 2020 9:40:28 AM

Around 58% of homeowners say they plan to spend money on property improvements this year. And while there are many project options to choose from when you work with a remodeling company, kitchen remodeling is undoubtedly one of the most popular. Not only does the kitchen serve the essential function of helping you store and prepare food, but it’s also a place where your loved ones can gather to eat together and share memories.

Therefore, you’ll want to do everything you can to ensure you get the most out of your kitchen remodeling project. Often, that comes down to working with expert kitchen designers so that the layout and materials align with your needs and preferences. And for many homeowners, there’s one aspect of the kitchen design they’re careful not to overlook: the countertops.

Although there are many countertop options your kitchen remodelers could incorporate into your renovation, there are a few that tend to get a lot of the glory. For many years, granite countertops have been seen as the most desirable. But over time, alternatives — such as butcher block countertops — have come into favor. Each option has its perks and its drawbacks — so if you’re trying to decide between the two, today’s post can serve as a handy guide.

Granite Countertops

There’s no doubt that granite countertops are considered to be the top choice when house hunting or pursuing kitchen remodeling. They provide a beautiful and unique look in any space, as these countertops offer natural patterns that are anything but uniform. And because they come in many different hues, they can be seamlessly included in any style of home. As a bonus, granite countertops are extremely durable and are resistant to both water and heat. This makes them ideal for all of your cooking and food preparation needs.

Of course, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. One reason homeowners may forgo granite countertops in their kitchen remodeling project is due to their expense. While many homeowners feel the expense is worth it, you may need to increase your budget or cut back in other areas of the renovation to make this option feasible. Installation can also be more difficult, given the weight of this material. Moreover, it can be more difficult to repair if necessary. That said, it is a recyclable material and can be an option for those looking to factor environmental responsibility into their design.

Butcher Block Countertops

Butcher block countertops offer a rich and rustic feel in any kitchen. It’s essentially like having a beautiful cutting board as a countertop; you can prepare your food right there and wipe it down afterward without fear of damage. And because there are so many types of wood available, you’ll be sure to find something that fits in with your home’s aesthetic. These countertops are eco-friendly, relatively easy to install, and are fairly affordable. It makes sense that these countertops are coming back into style.

On the other hand, butcher block countertops can have some drawbacks. For one thing, they do require resealing, refinishing, and frequent cleaning. They’re also less heat-resistant than granite countertops and they aren’t completely resistant to water, either. And if you’re looking for a sleek and contemporary look, wood may not offer the modern visual appeal you really want in a home. However, this material is quite durable and can add charm to a room.

When you’re considering kitchen remodeling, you’ll have lots of important design choices to make. Once it’s time to choose your countertops, you’ll need to identify your list of priorities and talk to your kitchen designers to determine which material will best fit your lifestyle. For more information or to get started on your next remodeling project, please contact our team today.