Countertop upgrades are most commonly done as part of a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project. New countertops can make a huge difference in bringing about a new look to a room.For a kitchen, countertop upgrades can help bring about a more modern look. If you are upgrading the appliances, it might seem out of place to have a brand new refrigerator adjacent to 1980s-era countertops. In a bathroom remodel, the new countertops are generally included along with replacing the sink and cabinets. There are numerous options available. We can help with these choices.When planning countertop upgrades, there are several things to consider. These include: Slab – Countertops can come in sections and then be attached together at the time of installation, or they can come as one single piece. Stone slab countertops are considered to be very green (environmentally friendly). They are quite resistant to moisture, sanitary, and they virtually never wear out. Granite – Granite is a great choice for material when doing countertop upgrades. Granite is extremely durable and can be used as a cutting surface. It also has the advantage of being virtually unable to burn, so you can set hot pans or pots on a granite countertop without worry. Granite is also very resistant to chipping and scratches. It will not usually show moisture, but if a spot of liquid is left for a period of time it might show at that spot after drying. It’s a good idea to make sure that the granite has been properly sealed to avoid moisture spots, and don’t leave any liquid to sit for any length of time. Solid Surface – Many homeowners are finding this to be a great option as a balance between usability and affordability. Solid surface countertops are nonporous, so staining is not an issue. They are also resistant to mold and bacteria, since there are no seams to collect dirt and moisture. Add to that the fact that they are resistant to heat and scratching, and you can see why these are popular. Many colors and styles are available, so you can get the look and feel of a stone slab without the expense. Solid surface counters can be refinished too, presenting a fresh and clean look. Laminate – When budget is a primary concern for your countertop upgrades, laminate will fit the bill. It is stain resistant, but scratching will become noticeable over time, as will any encounters with heat. This type of countertop has a board base and the laminate material is glued to the top. Laminate countertops shouldn’t be seen as a lifetime choice, but they do provide a new look and feel at an inexpensive cost. Tile – Tile is another economical option for countertop upgrades, and it also has the advantage of being scratch and heat resistant. However, it will require more maintenance. To protect from staining, the grout needs to be cleaned and sealed on a regular basis. Ceramic tile can crack if a heavy object is dropped on it. There are also lots of options for colors, patterns and textures. Homeowners with a pool or a large patio are also discovering new types of countertop upgrades, such as outdoor entertainment centers. This is like having an entire kitchen outdoors. Full countertops, fireplace, cooking appliances, sinks – everything you need to entertain outdoors can be included. This really adds a new dimension to the outdoor living space of your home and is great for entertaining guests.We offer countertop upgrades in Renton, Issaquah, Sammamish, Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Seattle, Newcastle, King County, Woodinville and Juanita.