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7 Kitchen Countertop Replacement Options for Your Dream Cook Space

Post author By YH
Post date November 29, 2022

7 Kitchen Countertop Replacement Options for Your Dream Cook Space

November 29, 2022

There’s no question that the kitchen is the heart of the home. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply gathering for a family meal, everyone always ends up in the kitchen. It’s no wonder then why kitchen renovations are usually at the top of every homeowners wishlist. Afterall, it serves not only as a functional space but also as an entertainment hub!

While most homeowners are willing to take on some simple DIYs to create the kitchen of their dreams, a kitchen countertop replacement is a whole different ball game. If you’re planning to replace a kitchen countertop but you’re not sure where to start, you’re in the right place. Find out the factors to consider, material options and more right here!

Factors to Consider For a Kitchen Countertop Replacement

The decision to replace a kitchen countertop comes with several factors to consider, all of which you’d be smart not to neglect! Keep in mind the factors below when narrowing down your replacement selections.

Price: One of the most important factors in a kitchen countertop replacement is your budget. Nothing’s worse than finding a material you love only to find it’s out of your price range. Consider your budget for the product, coupled with the amount needed and research each material’s average cost for that amount first.
Cleanliness: Not all countertops are created equal when it comes to level of cleanliness. Quartz for instance is a very hygienic option as it’s non-porous. More porous surfaces like stone can be used but yearly sealing is a must to keep them safe and clean for use.
Durability: With different measures of durability, you want to make sure your replacement matches your expectations for longevity. Materials like granite have a great deal of durability, whereas materials like tile are more susceptible to cracks and chips.
Color: The color of your countertops doesn’t boil down to aesthetic preferences alone; Though the color itself does have the power to mold your kitchen into the design that fits your personal vibe. It’s important to note that darker counters will show more in the way of streaks and food particles.

1. Granite

Pros: Granite has been among the most common kitchen countertop replacement options for some time now. No slab looks alike and its wide variety of color options is a huge draw. Differences in the granite veins also give this material a unique look. A non-porous material, it’s a clean surface that holds its own against heat, cracking and the like.

Cons: There are a few concerns to remember though. Granite is a very heavy material. You’ll have to be sure your countertops or subsurface are strong enough to withstand their weight. Their patterns also vary. Know that when you pick the color and style you like, the product you get might not be an exact match.

2. Wood

Pros: If you’re searching for a touch of the natural, wood countertops are for you. They have the ability to create a warm, homey feeling. With a natural antibacterial agent, they make for a safe cutting surface. They’re also one of the most eco-friendly countertop replacement options. Wood also comes at a much lower cost per square foot, making it a more affordable choice depending on the variety of wood.

Cons: Wood countertops need to be oiled frequently for protection. Even with this protection, wood is still vulnerable to much damage; Including scratches, water damage, heat damage, dents and the like. All of these potential damages require a good bit of time, maintenance, and resources to fix.

3. Quartz

Pros: Hands down the most popular kitchen countertop replacement material in recent years, quartz isn’t just pleasing to the eye. Similar to granite in many ways, you can find it in many patterns. Its low maintenance factor makes it incredibly appealing as it requires no sealing and cleans well. It’s also stain resistant and non-porous making it highly durable.

Cons: Even though the slabs look polished, the fact that the seams are often noticeable are a drawback. These counters do have heat resistance but somehow their level of resistance doesn’t match up to that of granite. Last and maybe the hardest pill to swallow is the cost. If you’re looking for affordability, quartz isn’t your best bet.

4. Laminate

Pros: Laminate can get a bad rap sometimes, but it does have some noteworthy qualities when it comes to a kitchen countertop replacement. Namely, it’s an affordable choice with easy clean up and a stain resistance finish. It’s manufactured in a color that’s sure to suit any preference and usually a quicker install as it only requires simple cuts.

Cons: Unfortunately, laminate countertops are near impossible to repair. They’re extremely susceptible to wear and tear and they’re not expected to last nearly as long as other materials. Laminate isn’t most people’s first choice either and wouldn’t have a positive affect on your home’s resale value.

5. Engineered Stone

Pros: You don’t have to worry about engineered stone’s beauty being interrupted with seams as the entire top surface is one solid piece. A non-porous material, it’s resistant to cuts and knicks making food prep a breeze. With engineered stone you get the gorgeous look of natural stone at a much lower cost.

Cons: These countertops are super heavy and require a special frame that comes at a high cost. They’re also not entirely heat resistant. This can become an inconvenience in more than one way. Obviously, you’ll want to be cautious about placing pots and pans directly on the counter. Likewise, if you have any countertop appliances, you’ll need to be sure they aren’t producing too much heat at their base.

6. Tile

Pros: While tile countertops might not be for everyone, they make for a unique and artistic look that won’t go unnoticed. A strong material with endless design and color options, it’s great at resisting stains and wear and tear. Another bit of good news – any cracks and chips are easily remedied with a simple tile replacement.

Cons: Grout lines can be an issue harboring germs and crud. They’ll require re-sealing in order to reduce this issue year after year. Tiled countertops also tend to be uneven which can become a problem with using cutting boards and such.

7. Marble

Pros: An attractive surface with tons of character, the softness of marble allows for even more detailed cuts than other stones. It’s also a fan favorite in the baking crowd since it naturally stays cool. This makes it perfect for rolling dough! A long-lasting option, it’s sure to draw in homebuyers when the time comes to sell.

Cons: Marble’s beauty comes at a cost that many aren’t willing to spend on a simple kitchen countertop replacement. It requires a lot of maintenance and sealing. Similarly, it does stain more than other surfaces due to its porousness. They can also take on some significant scratching that is very hard to repair. Marble also has the potential to undergo patina, a process where oxidation changes the original color.

8. Concrete

Pros: As you may have guessed, concrete countertops are particularly durable. They’re also easy to maintain, only requiring resealing every few years. One of the best aspects of concrete counters though is their customization. With an impressive number of options, you can select different textures, edges, and even decorative particles mixed in.

Cons: Concrete countertops aren’t as cheap as many may think. The main reason is due to the amount of labor and expertise required. They’re also fairly vulnerable to chipping and staining. They’re definitely not among the mainstream choice for a kitchen countertop replacement.

9. Stainless Steel

Pros: Offering a polished look (literally), stainless steel creates a bright and clean cooking space. A non-porous surface, it’s water resistant and the arguably the most hygienic countertop option. It doesn’t burn or stain and is very easy to clean and maintain over time.

Cons: If you do decide to place pots and pans on these counters, the contact with metal pans could risk denting and scratching. They’re also on the higher end when it comes to price. Last, they tend to give off a more industrial look in certain situations; Sometimes even unwelcoming.

Conclusion

A kitchen countertop replacement stands to change the entire feel of your cook space. From natural wood to sleek and smooth quartz, there’s something to fit everyone’s personal style. A project requiring much precision and experience, you want the best professionals on your side to get the job done right!

We’re ready to assist! Get a FREE kitchen countertop replacement consultation in the Los Angeles area! Call Structura Remodeling at 1-800-922-4613 or schedule a free consultation here:

https://www.structuraremodeling.com/schedule-a-free-consultation

*Serving Los Angeles county and surrounding areas*

Call Today 1800-922-4613 for a free in-home estimate.

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FAQ

What’s the return on investment (ROI) for a kitchen countertop replacement?

If you’re wondering whether or not your time, money, and efforts are worth the hassle, let this quell your fears: When you replace a kitchen countertop you’ll see somewhere between a 60 to 80 percent ROI. Currently, quartz is said to have the best resale value when it comes to attractive potential homebuyers, granite being a close second. Regardless of what you choose, a kitchen countertop replacement will undoubtedly raise your home value.

Can you replace just the countertops?

You can absolutely replace just your countertops without having to replace all your cabinets. Even so, there’s a few elements of your renovation you might want to consider before deciding against a bigger project altogether. For instance, are your cabinets in good condition? Do they need replacing at this point anyways?

Also, are the aesthetics what you’re looking for? Consider if you’d like a different design or color. Finally, if you’ve been waiting to switch up your kitchen layout entirely, now would be the time. While you can replace just the countertops, be sure to think about the big picture.

How long does a kitchen countertop replacement take?

As far as the actual removal and replacement (if taking place on the same day) it can take as little as a few hours. It’s important to remember this doesn’t include the planning portion of the project. It will take time for your team to record the precise, custom measurements.

Likewise, depending on the material used, an order will need to be placed with your chosen manufacturer to custom cut your countertops.

Can you put new countertops over old ones?

To the surprise of many, you can put new countertops over old ones; Though it may not be in the way you’d think. The most common way to do this is via countertop overlays. These overlays are thin and offer an attractive solution that’s cheaper than most full replacement options based on material alone.

Countertop overlays also come in a variety of common materials like wood, laminate, granite, concrete and the like. With plenty of selection and advantages it’s a viable option for your kitchen countertop replacement.

Do you have to replace your sink when you do a kitchen countertop replacement?

While you don’t have to replace your sink with a kitchen countertop replacement, the likelihood that you will is pretty high. Trending countertop selections like quartz and granite are almost always paired with an undermount sink. This means there’s no metal lip that sits atop the counter’s surface like there would be in a top-mount sink.

Aside from their modern look, undermount sinks also offer other advantages. They make countertop cleaning easier. You can easily scoop excess water or food particles directly from the countertop into the sink without it getting stuck on a top-mounted lip. All that said, even though you don’t have to replace the sink, it’s best in the long run.

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Although we were not able to use Structura because of the timeline of our project, we will definitely consider them for a future project. Kobi was very helpful and knowledgeable. He was honest and provided his advice on our project and I am extremely thankful for that.

I can't say enough good things about Structura Remodeling ... I'd been thinking about remodeling a dated condo for awhile, but I really didn't know where to start. After calling around and doing a lot of research, I narrowed down the on site interviews to three finalists, but I knew immediately when I met with Kobi at that first meeting, Structura would be the way to go.

Our condo was brand new, state-of-the-art when we moved in 30 plus years ago. Fast forward to the present and we agreed it was time to improve our home whether we were going to stay or increase its marketability and move on.. Either way the kitchen needed updating. We knew that would mean replacing cabinets, countertops, lighting, appliances and flooring.

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Blog Garage

Garage Man Cave Ideas: Unique Designs For Every Personal Style

Post author By YH
Post date November 29, 2022

Garage Man Cave Ideas: Unique Designs For Every Personal Style

It’s no wonder man caves have become a common remodel request in recent years. After all, who wouldn’t want some extra space to display their favorite things? Man caves aren’t just a commodity for guys looking for display space or a place for their hobbies though; They make a great entertaining area too!

Often enhanced by TVs, pool tables, bars, and the like, they’re the go-to spot for any event. Sounds good, right? Unfortunately not every home has the space but that doesn’t mean the man cave of your dream is out of the question. This is where garage man cave ideas come into play.

Curious how you can take your builder grade garage to an entertainment hub? Maybe looking for the garage man cave ideas that’ll fit even the most unique of hobbies? Stick around and you’ll quickly see why the garage man cave is a remodel on the rise.

Why is a garage the best choice for a man cave?

Garages are the best option for man caves for many reasons, the first being cost. An addition to the home is far more expensive than transforming an existing space like the garage. Likewise, it’s a larger space than you’d likely have with an interior room.

Also, a garage conversion is an especially good option for those with extracurriculars that fall on the messy or loud side. Confined to the garage, it’s less likely to affect others in the home than that of using a room inside the home.

Man Cave Remodel Considerations

Since the garage isn’t an interior room, it may lack some of the luxuries you want in a man cave. While you can transform a garage into a man cave without all of these, consider the following garage man cave ideas before getting started with your remodel.

Plumbing: A critical step if you plan to add a bathroom, sink etc.
Electrical: Additional access may need to be added for custom lighting.
Air Conditioning and Heating: Rerouting through the existing central AC unit.
Refrigeration and/or Bar: Combination of custom water, drainage and electrical.

Garage Man Cave Ideas

There’s no shortage of garage man cave ideas as these spaces can accommodate nearly any type of interest or hobby; That said, it would be impossible to cover everything here. We’ve narrowed it down to the designs so special you’d want to be sure they’re done right with the help of a professional. Each with their own unique remodel needs, the final result is well worth the extra time and money.

Shared/Functional Space

If you’re into garage man cave ideas but can’t fully commit, this shared space concept is the perfect fit. Splitting it right down the middle, the garage can still accommodate a car and the usual garage odds and ends; Still providing half the space for an impressive man cave given the space.

Extra storage added on the walls and in the headspace above free up much needed square footage for both sides. Cabinetry and countertop space allow for ample man cave storage while also offering electrical access for anything you may need.

Bare Bones with Style

Another great example of doing a lot with a little, garage man cave ideas such as this scream luxury without the price tag. Unfinished walls and ceilings painted bold colors give it a much more polished look. They opted to redo the flooring with a black, glossy coated finish making it feel a lot less like a garage and more like an intentional space.

The addition of dark wood and leather furnishings not only give the space style but also comfort. Of course, who could forget the man cave staples too? The foosball table, poker set up and TV make for an entertaining space you’ll never want to leave.

Minimalistic

It’s easy to see garage man cave ideas and think they require extravagance or a large budget, but that’s not entirely true. The minimalist garage man cave above is proof! Finished floors and walls give the space an interior feel while added wood accents and lighting embellish.

The minimalist look allows the space to be used for many purposes from guy’s night to meeting space. A one size fits all at an affordable price, a simple look goes a long way.

Screening Room

You wouldn’t think the garage is the best seat in the house for a movie, but garage man cave ideas like this show otherwise. Appearing as just another room in the house, you’d never know this space was once your average garage. A backlit tray ceiling accompanied by custom overhead lighting takes the space to the next level.

Carpeting, sconces and wall paneling reminiscent of a true cinema truly immerse you in the experience. The final touch, oversized leather loungers, make this screen room every movie lover’s dream.

Private Bar

The bar garage man cave is a more meticulous remodel, requiring specialty work with plumbing, refrigeration and the like. The addition of beer and soda taps creating further detailed installation. Regardless, it’s not without some serious rewards as shown in the picture above.

A lengthy bar accompanies plenty of counter space for creating your favorite drinks. Specially made shelving adorns a planked wall with display space and a chalk bar menu for personalization. Unique hanging lights and the extension of central AC into the space make for optimal comfort year round.

Music and/or Recording Room

Music and recording rooms are fairly common in garage man cave ideas, even more so in the garage man cave. Reason being that noise like this in an interior room might not be welcomed by everyone. Making or playing music in the garage, allows the noise to escape the interior of the home with extra precautions to boot.

As you can see above, this garage man cave features a recording studio with custom paneling for sound absorption; Allowing less noise pollution outward. Paneling aside, the installation of wood flooring, track lighting and fixed AC give the area an indoor vibe with all the benefits of a garage man cave.

Mechanic’s Quarters

A car enthusiast’s dream, garage man cave ideas like the one above take the art of mechanics up a notch. With several bays to work in, the space also provides a sleek and inconspicuous place for tools in the wall lockers. Likewise, there’s storage space for motorcycle apparel on the wall. As if the work space wasn’t impressive enough, the aesthetics are a head-turner.

Black tiled flooring in the work space collides with warm wood as you enter a furnished area to kick up your feet and admire your work. Touches of wood beams and industrial, black track lighting give the room a balance in both style and function.

Naturalist and/or Trophy Space

Whether you just like the wood look or you want an aesthetic that highlights your hunting trophies, this rustic style is sure to please. Wood paneling surrounds this garage man cave with a warm and raw feel, bringing the outdoors inside.

Wooden beams not only add to the rustic nature of the design but also act as an architectural highlight, accentuating the height of the ceilings.

Gaming Hideout

Garage Man Cave Ideas: Unique Designs | Structura Remodeling

Garage man cave ideas are a common request among avid gamers. Here, they chose not just to include a space for video games but other physical games as well. The added touch of a cork wall for darts is a particularly unique idea.

Neutral flooring and walls add a bright and welcoming contrast to the wood elements making the space naturally pleasing to the eye.

FAQ

Can a garage man cave be done without raising the floor?

This will depend on the extent of your conversion. If you intend for your garage man cave to be a seamless transition, you can keep the concrete flooring. In certain cases you can even keep the floor at its current level and paint it or lay flooring over it.

If the conversion is a complete overhaul, that’s a different story. Made into a more permanent living space, it’s best to raise the floor. In doing so you’ll have the space underneath for any electrical needs. It also creates space for appropriate insulation.

Are garage conversions legal?

Unless you live off the grid, most projects have to live up to a certain code. These codes will be determined by your county or state. Even so, as long as you follow the rules, garage conversions are legal. Depending on the scope of the project, you may require certain permits, both planning and building; Followed by an inspection upon completion.

Luckily, contractors are usually the responsible party when it comes to permitting. However, if you’re doing work yourself, always check with your local entities first. Better safe than sorry.

How will converting a garage into a man cave affect the home’s value?

While many might be apprehensive, a garage conversion will actually add value to your home. It may be a drawback to some homebuyers who use their garage in the typical manner; Though for most it’ll seem like a win, providing extra living and entertainment space.

Be sure it’s done correctly though. In order for it to raise the value it needs to have been by the book; Including proper permitting, materials and the like.

What’s the average cost to convert a garage into a man cave?

Pinpointing an exact cost can be tough when there’s no shortage of options and upgrades to choose from. The cost of materials, labor, electrical and the like will all affect total costs, not to mention the actual size of the project itself. Even so, there’s still plenty of figures that can give homeowners a ballpark idea of project cost.

The average cost to finish a garage and still use it as such is $25,000.
The average cost of a total garage conversion is $ 35,000.
A garage conversion generally averages between $25,000 and 55,000.

Keep in mind, these numbers can change depending on market fluctuations with material cost, labor, permitting, etc.

For a garage man cave, does the actual garage door stay or is it removed?

This hinges on personal preference. It’s certainly an easier option to leave the existing garage door in place. If you opt for that, there’s several ways to dress up the interior side to make it flow with your conversion. Also consider the potential pitfalls; Wherein the garage door leaves more room for air to escape and pests to get in.

If you want to make your garage man cave a more permanent fixture, a new wall is an alternate option. Keep in mind, this is far more expensive to complete.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer simple and sleek or a finished home away from home, there’s endless options for garage man cave ideas. With custom touches via plumbing, electrical, refrigeration and the like, you’ll never want to leave!
Ready to create a garage man cave that’ll be the envy of your friend group? We’re ready to assist! Get a FREE garage man cave consultation in the Los Angeles area!