Remodel Guide: Countertops

Like a workbench in a woodshop, a countertop is perhaps the most necessary piece of equipment in a kitchen. Countertops are the work surfaces needed when you're sorting groceries, preparing and serving foods and cleaning up-they're essential for just about every aspect of kitchen work. Here we'll look at the various types of counters used in kitchens. (These same materials and construction techniques are used in bathrooms.)

Countertops are made from materials that are durable and, in most cases, easy to maintain. Most combine a base of plywood or particleboard that spans across the top of a cabinet and the finish surface material. Of course, they also include any mastic, glue, mortar or grout needed to adhere the surface to the base and keep it impervious to water and stains.

Standard kitchen counters are 24 inches deep and 36 inches from the floor. Bath counters are often shorter (30 inches high) and less deep (about 18 inches). Some have backsplashes-short vertical sections along the back that protect the wall-and some don't.

The most common materials are high-pressure laminate, ceramic tile, wood, solid surfacing and natural stone. If you're looking to buy new countertops, the material you choose will depend on your budget and the appearance and serviceable qualities you want.

Edge treatments for countertops may vary. Depending upon the materials they're made from, countertops may have any of several edges. The square edge is the most common, particularly with laminates, wood and tile. Bullnose is a safe, practical edge that makes a countertop look substantial. Ogee is more decorative-and possible only with certain materials. For more decorative appearance, a detail of wood, metal or a different color is sometimes sandwiched between layers of laminate, solid surfacing or stone.

--Don Vandervort