Remodeling your kitchen is a major project. For a full remodel, the cost will probably range between $5,000 and $10,000 depending on your brand/ design choices. One of the largest of these cost will most likely be the countertops. Although there are comparatively cheap options here in Denver, cost shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision. Remember that aesthetics, health benefits, and resale improvement should also influence which countertops to purchase. From granite and quartz to tile and Corian, here are some pros and cons for buying countertops in Denver.
Granite Countertops:
Denver’s most popular choice tops the list. Long seen as a symbol of prosperity, granite countertops have reached the purchase pinnacle here in Denver. This quarried stone, cut right from the ground, gives the kitchen a natural look that emphasizes living near the mountains. While it does need to be resealed from time to time, granite is easy to clean and disinfect; keeping your family healthier. Unfortunately, the cost is more substantial than some of the other options at around $60/ft2, but granite’s popularity doesn’t seem to be diminishing any time soon. You will definitely gain back your cost in resale value, especially if you purchase from a domestic supplier.
Quartz Countertops:
Coming in at a close second, quartz is also a favorite in the Denver area for many of the same reasons as granite. It does have its share of ups and downs however. Quartz countertops are a mix of crushed quartz crystal and an epoxy resin binder. On the pro side, this means that, unlike granite, there is no need for regular resealing. Additionally, quartz allows for more variety in colors and patterns. It is also easy to clean and disinfect. On the con side, the resin does react with UV light and will eventually discolor. Quartz is also on par with granite in cost, but will also increase the value of your home.
Laminate: This cost effective solution comes in a distant third not because of its aesthetic or resale value, but its price. A laminate countertop may run to less than a third of the cost of granite or quartz, but has many downsides that make it a poor choice. Its tendency to scratch easily often leads to stains that are difficult to remove. Disinfecting becomes harder as well; bleach wipes just don’t cut it. Laminate counters also don’t add significantly to resale value and can be the decision maker for many prospective buyers.
Tile Countertops:
Outdated since the turn of the century, tile countertops are almost as unpopular as concrete in Denver. They offer few of the benefits of granite or quartz and many of the disadvantages of laminate. Unlike granite, tile is aesthetically obsolete and no longer adds resale value to your house. It also announces that your kitchen hasn’t been updated in a while, even if the installation was last month. The grout lines and seams are also places for stains and bacteria to collect which will require a hard scrub to clean.
Concrete Countertops:
More popular in southern and western states, concrete just can’t find a foothold here in Denver. Although it seals well and is easy to maintain, the cold, hard, and industrial feel clashes with the natural look that many see as a trademark of Colorado home-building.
Corian Countertops:
Originally developed as a countertop material by Dupont, Corian has seen its day come and go. Like quartz, it is permanently sealed and hard to scratch, but it is as antiquated as tile and will not increase the value of your home at all.
Making the Best Countertop Material Choices
Before you start spending money on your new kitchen, it is important to make certain that your cash is going to the right material for your countertops. Appliances are easy to replace and cabinet options change very little throughout the years, but your counters make a statement about you and your house. What do you want them to say?
When you want a realtor who will make you their number one priority, it’s time to contact me to set up an initial consultation. Feel free to call True Performance Real Estate today and any questions you might have about selling your home!
Call: 303-317-6311