Here are 7 kitchen countertop options for your rental property in the maintenance checkup, provided by Keepe.
Kitchen countertops take up the majority of the kitchen space. They impact the look and feel of the room, but also its functionality. It is one of the first things tenants look at when they come into your rental property and can make the difference between getting a great tenant vs. just a good tenants.
Property managers and landlords like countertop materials that look appealing, are affordable and easy to repair. Kitchen countertops should aim to combine aesthetics, practicality and affordability.
7 kitchen countertop options for your rentals
Quartz a top selling option
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, man made quartz (not to be confused with natural Quartzite) is now the top selling material for kitchen surfaces. It is more stain and scratch-resistant than granite, the second most commonly utilized material. Quartz is made by combining mineral fragments with heavy-duty resins. It is durable and chip resistant, and it’s fairly priced at slightly above granite but still below marble.
It’s also considered to be environmentally-friendly. It is created by combining waste stones and not mined. Overall, quartz is functional, affordable and practical. The only downside to note is that some people find the look of quartz to be too uniform. This can miss the mark for those who like the natural irregularity of marble. New improvements in manufacturing have allowed quartz production to become more advanced with more sophisticated patterns.
Granite kitchen countertop
Granite is not as durable as quartz. But, it is still scratch, stain and chip resistant. Manufacturers explain that darker-colored granite is denser, which increases its durability due to the fact that it is less permeable. For this reason, lighter-colored varieties might require sealing procedures. That also means those varieties are going to be more demanding when it comes to upkeep over the years.
Marble
Marble can add a unique touch of elegance if you need that in a rental. Also, it is also fairly affordable. Often it is cheaper than quartz and granite. And, widely available, which makes repairs and maintenance easy. Additionally, those who are passionate about cooking, baking and particularly pastry-making are drawn to marble’s naturally cool temperature.
Unfortunately, marble is quite porous. This makes it vulnerable to scratches and permanent staining. Opting for marble countertops means having to be very careful and mindful of which foods and condiments one might want to avoid exposing marble to, and always ensuring that surfaces are thoroughly cleaned.
Solid surface
Solid surface is specifically made to resemble natural stone while being actually composed of artificial polymers and resins that are mixed with mineral dusts. This makes solid surface affordable and easy to maintain, requiring no sealing procedures and with most technicians having access to readily available materials for replacements and patch-repairs.
Unfortunately, solid surface countertops are vulnerable to high heat and scratches. Manufacturers encourage paying close attention to what the countertops are exposed to, especially when it comes to sharp tools or hot cookware. Generally, scratches and surface damages can be repaired by buffing the surface. But this implies having to hire a technician on quite the regular basis.
Tile
Ceramic tiles are easy to replace when broken or damaged. Plus they allow for plenty of customization. One of the main downsides to ceramic tiles is the grout in between them. This tends to easily collect dirt and stains. Tile can exhibit chipping and cracking over time as a result of accidental impacts. Tile is covered with a glossy protective enamel. It can run, chip or fade off over time. Avoid aggressively scrubbing the tiles.
Laminate kitchen countertop
Laminate became quite popular during the 1960’s and 70’s, when the idea of “plastic everything” started taking over. It is created by layering sheets of paper and resins, with pressed Kraft paper layers (the same paper material as grocery bags) being the most common. It is inexpensive and extremely easy to replace on a tight budget. However, the advantages of low costs come with a series of disadvantages. Laminate melts and scratches easily. Overall, opting for laminate countertops does not add value to the property. It cannot be recycled. Its production features the use of numerous chemicals, making laminate not very “green.”
Butcher block kitchen countertop
A butcher block countertop can bring the warm and rustic look of natural wood to the kitchen. To make a butcher block countertop, thick slabs of wood – generally maple, bamboo, cherry or red oak – are assembled with heavy-duty glue. Their different arrangements create different surface patterns.
Butcher block is difficult to care for. Experts recommend avoiding covering the wood with sealant. This keeps the natural look of the wood but also to avoids exposing food to the chemicals used for sealing. The issue with having unsealed wood is that discoloration. Even rotting can be very likely due to water and moisture exposure. To best protect the wood, butcher block surfaces need to be oiled every six months.
Avoid DIY
Manufacturers warn against taking the “DIY” route. Many have damaged their countertops by opting for cooking oils. Instead, schedule regular oiling procedures by professional technicians. Even when oiled, wooden countertops are not scratch or heat proof. Minor damages can be fixed by sanding the wood and re-oiling the area. Again, a procedure that is best left to professionals. Over time, they will develop a natural patina. Some really enjoy the look of “aged” wood while others do not. It’s important to keep this aspect in mind.
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About Keepe:
Keepe is an on-demand maintenance solution for property managers and independent landlords. The company makes hundreds of independent contractors and handymen available for maintenance projects at rental properties. Keepe is available in the Greater Seattle area,