Design & Remodeling of Kitchen Countertops in NYC: What Do You Need to Know?

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Remodeling a kitchen is always a huge project in your home. Since the project holds such great weight, you want to make sure it is done to your liking. If you are looking for kitchen countertop installation services in the New York City area, Marble.com has provided high quality and affordable countertops for over 20 years. Whether you are looking for natural stone options, such as granite or marble, or engineered stone, like quartz, Marble.com has over 2,000 different styles to choose from for your countertop remodel. 

Finding the Right Countertop for Your Kitchen 

So how do you go about finding the right countertop for your kitchen? Before you make your decision on which type of countertop you want, there are several factors to consider. Some things you should consider include appearance, maintenance and cost. You will really want to weigh the positives and negatives that each countertop option will offer you. 

Appearance 

Different types of stone countertops can vary greatly in terms of appearance. For example, granite and marble are both incredibly beautiful, yet can look so different. Differences in color and veining can have a drastic impact on the stone’s appearance. 

Maintenance 

Another factor you will want to consider is maintenance. Some countertops will require more maintenance than others. If you are someone who does not mind keeping up with proper maintenance of your kitchen countertop, perhaps you can consider using marble. On the other hand, if you are looking for something that requires a little less maintenance, granite or quartz may be what you are looking for. 

Cost 

Just as each type of stone has differences in appearance and maintenance, there are differences in cost as well. In general, you will have to pay more for a type of stone that is rarer. Additional elements that can impact cost include levels of customization and how much of the stone you require for your countertop. 

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Types of Countertops 

As mentioned above, you will want to consider numerous factors before deciding on which countertop is a good fit for your kitchen. Your best kitchen countertop options are listed out and explained in further detail below. 

Granite 

Granite is one of the most popular countertop building materials – especially for kitchen countertops. The stone will add incredible style to your home, while being relatively easy to maintain. 

Appearance of Granite 

Granite is a beautiful natural stone that comes in a seemingly endless array of colors and patterns. Granite countertops exist in colors ranging from white to dark green to gold, and many more. Different types of granite will contain varying flecks and veins. 

Maintenance of Granite 

Among your natural stone options, granite will offer you one of the easiest kitchen countertop surfaces to take care of. Granite does need to be re-sealed, although you will only have to do so roughly once a year. To clean your granite kitchen countertop, all you will need is warm, soapy water. Compared to various other countertop materials, many of which require special cleaning agents, keeping your granite in good shape will not be very hard. 

Cost of Granite 

For the quality of the material, you might be surprised that you will be able to find granite that is reasonably priced. Rarer types of granite will be more expensive than those that are commonly found. Average granite countertop starting prices tend to be near $40 per square foot. 

Marble 

Marble is a gorgeous natural stone that has been used for centuries to build everything from famous statues to kitchen countertops. There is no doubt that marble’s appearance makes the stone one of the most sought-after kitchen countertop materials. 

Appearance of Marble 

Marble countertops come in many different colors and veining patterns, with everything from nearly pure white to black to thin or thick veins running through the slab. Marble kitchen countertops will present a classy and timeless look. 

Maintenance of Marble 

Marble is a stone that you will need to make sure that you keep up with maintaining. Your marble countertop needs to be re-sealed roughly every three months. Marble should be cleaned using only solutions that are specifically designed for cleaning the stone. Never use any harsh household cleaners, such as vinegar or Windex. Since marble will stain if an acidic substance is spilled on its surface, be very careful handling liquids such as orange juice, coffee or wine. 

Cost of Marble 

Marble can typically be found in the range of $50 to $150 per square foot installed, with rare marble costing even more. 

Quartz 

Quartz is unlike the other countertop options on this list in that it is engineered stone. Despite being created in a factory, the countertops are stunning and can even look like natural stone if that is what you desire. 

Appearance of Quartz 

Since they are manufactured, quartz countertops are highly customizable. Quartz countertops are available in almost any color you can imagine. You can also find quartz countertops that resemble granite, marble or other natural stone. There is also a vast selection of edges you can choose from. 

Maintenance of Quartz 

Quartz countertops are very easy to maintain. Since the engineered stone is not porous, it does not need to be sealed. To clean a quartz countertop, all you will need is soap and water. An important thing to note is that, while they are virtually indestructible, quartz countertops are not heat resistant. This is very important to remember if you choose to go with quartz in the kitchen. Never take hot pots and pans directly off the stove and set them down on the countertop. Quartz is made by combining roughly 90 percent quartz mineral with about 10 percent resins, polymers and pigments. If you expose the surface to excessive heat, the resin will begin to melt, and you be left with a permanent burn mark on the countertop. Always use trivets and hot pads to avoid a nightmare scenario for your new kitchen countertop. 

Cost of Quartz 

Although quartz is not natural stone, you will have to pay a considerable price for all its benefits. Quartz countertops usually fall somewhere in the range of $70 to $175 per square foot, with factors such as increased customization pushing the prices into the higher end of the range. 

Slate 

Slate is one of the most attractive and durable countertop surfaces that you will be able to find. If you’re a fan of a darker gray stone countertop, slate may be the perfect choice for your kitchen. Overall, slate gives off a modern and stylish feeling when used in a kitchen countertop. 

Appearance of Slate 

As noted, slate comes in various shades of dark gray. The natural stone will give your kitchen countertop a uniform look, which could be what you desire if you do not want something that looks too busy. 

Maintenance of Slate 

Slate is a fantastic option if you are looking for something that is a natural stone, stylish and durable. Slate is both heat and stain resistant. It is also non-porous, meaning that it will not require sealing. 

Cost of Slate 

The prices for slate usually start around $50 per square foot installed. This number can fluctuate based on your specific kitchen countertop needs. 

Limestone 

Limestone is an elegant and unique natural stone that comes in different shades. The primary benefits you will get from limestone are the material’s high-quality looks and its ability to fit in well with virtually any décor. 

Appearance of Limestone 

If you are looking to freshen up your kitchen with natural stone that is beautiful, you should think about limestone. The stone can be found in shades ranging from white to gold to dark gray. Limestone tends to have a coloring that will fit in well with any kitchen design. 

Maintenance of Limestone 

While limestone surely looks beautiful, you will need to put in some effort to keep it in top shape – especially in your kitchen. The stone is very soft and porous, so you will need to make sure you do not risk spills that can damage the countertop.  

Cost of Limestone

Limestone falls roughly in the range of $30 per square foot, uninstalled. Depending on specific needs, installation will add to the cost. 

Travertine 

Travertine is another beautiful natural stone option for your kitchen countertop. It is actually a form of limestone and is known for its eye-pleasing streaks and consistent coloring. 

Appearance of Travertine 

Travertine is a truly beautiful natural stone countertop material. While you may have to put in a little work to maintain its beauty, if your primary focus is appearance, travertine will not leave you disappointed. 

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Maintenance of Travertine 

As with limestone, you will need to stay on top of maintenance with your travertine kitchen countertop. Make sure not to use any harsh cleaners on the surface, and it is very important to avoid spills on the countertop. 

Cost of Travertine 

Much like limestone, travertine goes for about $30 per square foot, uninstalled. The amount you require and any other installation factors will add to the overall cost. 

Soapstone 

Soapstone is a stunning natural stone that is sure to be a major improvement to your kitchen countertops. Installing a soapstone countertop will add some style and life to your kitchen and will create a cozy feel in the room. 

Appearance of Soapstone 

Soapstone comes in a range of beautiful grays which can have hints of green, blue or black present. The stone naturally darkens with age, but you can choose to speed up the process by treating the countertop with mineral oil. 

Maintenance of Soapstone 

Because it is non-porous, soapstone does not need to be sealed. While this is one of soapstone’s benefits, you will need to be careful when handling heavy objects on or around the countertop, as soapstone is prone to chipping and scratching. If scratching becomes an issue, you are able to re-polish the surface of your countertop. 

Cost of Soapstone 

Soapstone prices typically start around $55 per square foot. 

Gemstone 

New York City is known for its style, so what better way to make a stylish impression than installing gemstone countertops? Gemstone is both beautiful and rare and will give your countertop a style that is truly unlike any other. 

Appearance of Gemstone 

This one-of-a-kind sophisticated countertop will truly make a lasting impression. With options allowing you to choose colors from vibrant golds to blue, your remodel will surely be completed in style. 

Maintenance of Gemstone 

Although you may initially think otherwise about this rare and unique countertop, gemstone is actually very durable. It is non-porous, as well as both heat and stain resistant. 

Cost of Gemstone 

While gemstone may be beautiful, it will not be your best option if you are on a limited budget for your kitchen remodel. Gemstone countertops can start at around $100 per square foot. 

Quartzite 

Quartzite will truly take your breath away. The natural stone is absolutely beautiful and will not disappoint if you choose to install it for your kitchen countertop.  

Appearance of Quartzite 

The stone’s looks have often been compared to that of marble. In many cases, people have confused quartzite for marble because of how similar the two stones can look. However, quartzite can provide you with many functional benefits that marble cannot. 

Maintenance of Quartzite 

Quartzite is a very durable material for your kitchen countertop. It is also very easy to clean; all you will need is soap and water. Like most other natural stone countertops, you will have to seal your quartzite countertop to keep it in prime condition. 

Cost of Quartzite 

Quartzite typically starts around $60 per square foot. This number can exceed $100 per square foot for rarer types of the stone. 

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Onyx 

Onyx is a unique and exotic natural stone that is among the most beautiful in the world. An onyx countertop will be a bold and stylish focal point of your home. 

Appearance of Onyx 

Onyx is already one of the most beautiful natural stone countertops you can have, and you can even enhance that beauty through backlighting. Because the stone is translucent, onyx has the ability to be backlit. If you choose to go with onyx, you will have the pleasure of admiring natural beauty in your kitchen every day.  

Maintenance of Onyx 

While its major benefits lie in its appearance, you will need to exercise extreme caution if you install onyx countertops in your kitchen. The stone can damage very easily, needs to be re-sealed often and must be cleaned using special solutions specifically designed for onyx. But if you are looking to make a bold statement, there may not be a better stone to help you accomplish that. 

Cost of Onyx 

At its lowest, onyx costs around $75 per square foot. Of course, this number can always be higher depending on various factors. 

Your kitchen design can truly say a lot about your home. Because of this, you want to make sure that your kitchen renovation project is done correctly. This guide can help you navigate through everything you need to know about the design and remodeling of kitchen countertops in NYC. Regardless of which countertop material you choose, you will want to make a decision that you will be happy with for years to come, as you will typically only buy new countertops once if you take proper care of them. A kitchen remodel can be a hectic yet fun project. Marble.com can take you through your journey from determining what type of stone countertop will work well in your kitchen to installing it when the time comes.

Why you can trust Marble.com

When it comes time to get the job done, our fabrication and installation teams have the equipment and expertise it takes to get your project cut and delivered the right way, every time. We at Marble.com are known for our incredibly quick turnaround, as we understand having countertops and other mainstays installed quickly and properly is important to our customers. We value your time, and our goal is to create the best work possible and have you enjoying it as possible.

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