Counters are one of the most important elements of any kitchen, providing a universal workspace to perform various tasks in the kitchen. As mentioned earlier, counters should provide the minimum suggested workspace adjacent to other kitchen elements, such as sinks and appliances.

While some kitchens have varied heights of counters, the universal height is 36-inches from floor to counter top. Once minimum suggested counter space has been met, other design considerations might include additional counter space, type of counters, counter height, cost, and placement.

Counter tops come in a wide variety of materials; the most common being particle board or plywood, covered with high-pressure laminate plastic. This material comes in an infinite assortment of styles, colors; by numerous manufacturers. It is the most economical choice. Especially when purchased pre-manufactured in the needed dimensions.

Units commonly come with the counter and backsplash as one pre-formed piece. The down side is that laminates can be less durable and scratch or stain more easily than other counter material choices.

The next step up in material choice is ceramic tile; also available in nearly endless style and color selections, in sizes of less than 1-inch to 12-inches square. Some installations of ceramic tile are done with construction adhesive on a plywood core, and then grouted when adhesive is cured.

The recommended method is using a combination of plywood covered with cementboard or concrete-impregnated Masonite, for an overall thickness of at least 1¼-inches before applying the ceramic tile. Tile is adhered to the cementboard either with construction adhesive, or preferably with thin-set mortar; yielding a counter resistant to water.

Another step up in quality, appearance, and cost is natural stone; such as granite, marble, flagstone, onyx, or sandstone. Solid stone counters are considered to be the utmost in extravagance and beauty. They are one of the most durable surfaces available for countertops, which may very well outlast the kitchen.

While solid stone is one the most expensive options in counter tops, there are some drawbacks. If the counter becomes scratched, cracked, or otherwise damaged, the whole counter top may have to be replaced.

One way to reduce the cost of a natural stone counter is to get it in squares; usually 12-inches, and then install it like ceramic tile. Not only is it a more economical way to achieve the beauty of stone, but single tiles can be replaced if damaged. Another variation of natural stone is a concrete counter top; using cement and small natural stones. The cement is poured in a form with the stones arranged so that they will be exposed in the final top surface of the counter.

Probably the most expensive choice in counter tops is stainless steel. Stainless steel is becoming increasingly popular because of its sleek appearance; also due to the fact that it is the most hygienic choice because of ease of sterilization. Choices in style may be somewhat limited, with fewer manufacturers. While some manufacturers offer some basic standard sizes, most stainless steel counters are custom-built to order.

Counter Top Edge Options

Edge treatments add the finishing touch to any counter top. There are usually one of four styles from which to select:

• Square edge – the most common; used with laminates, wood, and ceramic tile.
• Bullnose edge – a practical, safe edge treatment with a rounded rim; often found on pre-formed laminate counters.
• Ogee edge – accomplished with only certain materials. Laminate counters with a hardwood edge are covered with the laminate, and then a router is used on the square edge to make either an angled or rounded edge. Exposing the beauty of the hardwood beneath.
• Sandwich edge – features layers of wood, metal, or colors sandwiched between layers of laminate or stone for decorative appeal.

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