Modern kitchen décor depends heavily on the integration of kitchen counter tops into the overall theme. Natural stone is the current material of choice, with granite counter tops ranking the favored type among designers and homeowners alike. Marble kitchen counter tops and quartz kitchen counter tops are also popular choices; some homeowners prefer a soapstone kitchen counter top, instead.

While ceramic tile counter tops and concrete kitchen counter tops are technically not natural stone, certain types of both hint of natural stone. Especially concrete counter tops; the gravel stones in the mixture are partially exposed in the finished surface.

Granite Counter Tops

Granite colors for kitchen counter tops include: whites, creams, and pinks; browns, yellows, and golds; reds, blues and greens; grays, blacks, and purples; as well as variegated granites. Keep in mind that there are over 800 varieties of differently colored and textured granites from all around the world.

Selecting a granite counter top for your kitchen design plan can be expensive, but properly cared for can last a lifetime. Prices range from $30 to $300 per square foot and up. Often, a considerable portion of this cost is the expense of transportation.

Some homeowners try to reduce the overall granite countertop cost by completing the preparation work themselves. However, making and installing a custom granite counter top is a project best left in the hands of skilled professionals. Errors in measurement, construction, and installation could turn matters into a time consuming and frustrating endeavor. Resulting in a finished project that lacks professional appeal.

Combined with the risk of damage to the granite slab during counter top construction and installation that would necessitate repair or replacement, it could also prove costly. Even more so, when all is said and done, than it would have been to hire a granite counter top contractor for the job.