Selecting the products for your countertops and backsplashes is an important and exciting process that will greatly impact the look and feel of your new home. The possibilities are endless with the number of options and design choices that are available to you.

Laminate – Laminate countertops are available in an abundance of colors, textures and patterns. They are known for their easy maintenance and affordability. Laminates are typically a resin impregnated paper that is bonded to plywood or fiberboard substrate. Laminate will show scratches, particularly in dark colors. Over time, laminates can de-laminate and/or break or chip. Try dressing your laminate countertops up a bit with a decorative tile backsplash.

Natural Stone – Granite is the most popular of the natural stones selected for decorative backsplashes and countertops. Granite is known for its timeless performance and beauty and is a great way to increase the value of your home. It comes in an extraordinary palette of colors ranging from subtle to dazzling intensity. Granite countertops in monochromatic shades of black, white and gray fit the latest high-tech and high-function kitchens, while warm earth tones are at home in traditional and country kitchens. Some of the granite colors exhibit "movement" or a pattern like a wave of color. Granite is formed from magma, which eventually cools and crystallizes to form a very hard rock consisting of primarily quartz and feldspar. The Earth is constantly revealing ever-new variations of the age-old material. Granite is one of the top choices for high-use kitchens since it is highly heat, stain, and scratch resistant.

As an alternative to granite, other natural stone such as marble, limestone, sandstone, shell stone, travertine and slate are available. Each stone has its own limitations and areas of usage. A popular choice for a decorative backsplash would be granite tile installed on the diagonal, or a beautiful natural stone or ceramic decorative liner.

Tile – Due to its endless design options, durability and easy maintenance, ceramic/porcelain/natural stone tile is often a popular choice for countertops and decorative backsplashes. It can make a statement when paired with laminate, solid surfaces or granite. Tile is available in a wide variety of colors, sizes, patterns and finishes. Tile finishes range from matte to high gloss and some are more suitable for specific areas of your home than others. Scratches tend to be more noticeable on a high gloss tile, making them more suitable for the bathroom or for a decorative backsplash instead of the kitchen counter. The use of listellos or decorative liners can greatly enhance the look of your kitchen or bath. Tile is heat-, stain- and scratch-resistant, but can chip if hit with heavy objects.

Solid Surface – Solid surface products are the newest and one of the most popular countertop and wall tile options. We offer an array of countless designs and color options in countertops, integrated sinks and backsplashes.
Solid surfaces are known for their durability, easy maintenance, and their ability to be renewed. Solid surfaces are smooth and nonporous and will not promote the growth of mold, mildew or bacteria. Solid surfaces withstand heat better than ordinary surfacing materials; however, hot pans directly from the cook top or oven can damage the surface. Always use a hot pad or trivet to protect the surface. Try enhancing the beauty of your solid surface material by adding a decorative tile or natural stone backsplash.

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