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Choosing Countertops for a Multifamily Renovation

June 12, 2020

When renovating or building apartment kitchens, choosing the right countertop is one of the most important aspects of the design that goes beyond just an aesthetic. Choosing a countertop is an investment you want to last for years to come; one that will both please tenants and withstand their wear. Think about the practical aspects of different types of countertops. Just like making any type of decision, there are pros and cons for each option. Countertops have those pros and cons when it comes to terms of hardness, durability, heat and stain resistance. When it comes to the design, would you prefer a natural stone or would a manufactured, composite material fit the bill? Do you want a stone countertop? While you may have the color and style mapped out in your head, if the material of the countertop isn’t right, there’s a chance you’ll regret your choice.

Tough Granite 

Granite is considered a valuable natural material from the Earth and heavily favored as the perfect choice for a kitchen countertop or island. Granite countertops have increased in popularity recently. This recent rise in popularity could be because granite is one of the most functional building materials in the world. The processing of this material has been revolutionized in the past 20 years with the improvements of diamond cutting tools. Due to granite’s ability to absorb heat and resist scratching and staining, this material is a popular choice among other commercial and residential properties. The initial investment may be a little higher, but granite countertops are one apartment feature that will certainly pay you back for your risk. Many tenants will seek out units with granite counters and be willing to pay higher rent for them. In addition, the high quality material should not have to be replaced as often as lower quality, less expensive countertop materials such as laminate. 

Classic Marble

Classic white marble remains the top choice for many homeowners. It comes as no surprise that marble countertops are topping the chart as a fan favorite — the material has been attracting fans for millennia. Marble is a timeless and classic natural stone. The stone was once considered to be a symbol of luxury and richness. Marble is still a beloved and very popular natural stone which will add value and character to your kitchen. Marble is not a perfect product — while good quality marbles are dense and relatively nonporous, making them durable and stain resistant, they also have weaknesses. Marble is generally composed of calcium carbonate (magnesium carbonate), a non-foliated metamorphic rock, which reacts to acids. This would mean if an acidic kitchen liquid like lemon juice or vinegar lands on the surface it will etch the marble, leaving a dull, whitish mark where the liquid has slightly eaten away at the surface. This can occur even after the material has been sealed.

All Natural Quartz

Quartz is a material that is found easily in the Earth and it is a very abundant material. The practice of turning quartz into a surface covering material only came about after recent technological advancements in natural stone cutting and mixing. This artificially crafted countertop is a cheaper alternative to marble and granite. Quartz countertops consist of raw quartz and resin. The rise of popularity in quartz countertops are due to their durability and stain resistance. While shopping around for a quartz countertop, there is a vast variety of different colors and designs which are not always available in natural stone countertops. Most common areas of use for quartz are budget apartment buildings, budget hotels, and senior housing. Most developers want an inexpensive alternative to other materials, such as marble or granite for countertops. 

Planning to revamp your kitchens or bathrooms in your apartment complex? Alterra Construction Services are here to help you complete your vision. Contact us by visiting our website or calling 615-438-5734.