Choosing the Best Option for Your Budget and Style
Thinking about upgrading your kitchen countertops? You have two main options: go all in with brand-new granite, quartz, or quartzite, or take the quicker route with a countertop overlay like Granite Transformations, a thin topper that goes right over your existing counters.
So, which is the best choice for your home? Let’s break it down.
What’s the Difference?
One key difference when installing brand new countertops is the level of customization. With options like quartz, granite, and quartzite, you can choose from a wide range of colors, patterns, and edge details. Quartz kitchen countertops offer a consistent sleek, modern look, while quartzite and granite kitchen countertops feature unique, natural variations.
With an overlay, your options are more limited. The material is thinner, so it lacks the depth and luxury of solid stone. It does provide a refreshed look, but if you’re looking for a dramatic, high-end kitchen upgrade, solid stone would be the better choice.
What Am I Really Paying For?
Countertop overlays can be a more budget-friendly option, but lower costs often come with trade-offs. If your existing countertops are damaged, overlays could require extra prep work, which adds to the overall cost. Plus, they may not last as long as solid stone, so you might find yourself needing a replacement sooner than you think.
On the other hand, although solid quartz, quartzite or granite kitchen countertops come with a higher upfront cost, they’re a one-time investment that adds long-term value. With proper care, these materials can last for years without needing replacement.
Which Kitchen Countertops Will Hold Up Over Time?
If you’re investing in new kitchen countertops, you want them to last. Solid granite, quartz, and quartzite are incredibly durable. They resist scratches, heat, and stains. Quartz is non-porous, so it won’t absorb spills or need sealing. Granite and quartzite are even tougher, but they’ll require occasional sealing to stay stain resistant.
Overlays depend on your existing countertop for stability. If there are cracks or weak spots, the overlay won’t be as sturdy. Over time, shifting or wear could cause cracking. While it might look good at first, your overlay may not hold up in the long run.
New Countertops? Or More?
Solid stone countertops are heavy, but most well-built cabinets can support them. Overlays, however, only add a light layer on top of your existing surface. If your current kitchen cabinets aren’t in great shape, adding more weight may not be the best idea. Upgrading both your kitchen cabinets and countertops can give your kitchen a fresh, balanced look, making the most of your remodel.
Which Kitchen Countertop Option Pays Off?
If you’re thinking about your home’s resale value, granite, quartz, and quartzite add real value, making a strong impression on buyers. A high-quality kitchen remodel, including new countertops, can yield a return on investment (ROI) of up to 75%.
Countertop overlays can offer a quick, cost-effective update, but some buyers may see it as a temporary solution rather than a long-term investment.
And what if you aren’t concerned about resale? If you’re planning to stay in your home long-term, investing in solid stone makes more sense, too.
Which Is the Better Choice?
If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly update, an overlay offers a convenient solution. For something durable, beautiful, and built to last, solid granite, quartzite or quartz kitchen countertops are the smarter choice for long-term value.
Elegant Kitchen and Design Can Help
When it comes to choosing and installing the perfect kitchen cabinets and countertops, you want experts who know their stuff. As a top cabinet and countertop supplier in the Baltimore area, Elegant Kitchen and Design is known for high-quality materials and fair prices. Although we don’t offer remodeling services, we do provide free measurements, design assistance, and professional solid countertop installation. We also specialize in custom orders, cutting and finishing to your specifications.
We’ll help you choose premium kitchen countertops that fit any style or budget. Whether you’re drawn to the durability of quartz, the unique beauty of granite, or the timeless appeal of quartzite, we have something for you.
To simplify your remodel, we offer free design consultations for customers purchasing kitchen cabinets and countertops. Using state-of-the-art software, we create a 3D layout of your kitchen, giving you a clear preview of how your new countertops will look before installation. This ensures a seamless, well-coordinated design that brings your vision to life.
Not only do your countertops arrive for free, but we also offer free delivery on pre-assembled kitchen cabinets, so you get everything you need, ready for installation.
Visit our showroom at 1727 E. Joppa Road, Parkville, MD, to explore your options in person, or give us a call to set up a consultation. Let’s get started on your dream kitchen today!
