If you are planning to remodel your bathroom or are just looking for a few updates, nothing makes quite the impact as customized vanity tops. Today, there are many options to choose from when it comes to countertops that you are no longer limited to tile and laminate. As with any home remodeling project, there are factors other than aesthetics you need to consider, such as cost per square foot, maintenance and durability. Lexmar USA, Pittsburgh’s number one source for high quality countertops and custom installation, outlines their more popular materials for custom vanity tops below.
One of the most unique countertop materials on the market, granite is characterized by its stunning reflective and jewel-like properties. It is a naturally occurring stone that has taken millions of years to form; thus, making this option truly unique and one-in-a-million. Even though granite tends to be dark, the natural stone offers a variation of colors and patterns making it extremely adaptable to a variety of styles.
Granite is exceptionally durable and naturally heat and scratch resistant. A favorite among homeowners due to its low maintenance, this material can be cleaned with soap and water after annual sealing applications. With proper maintenance, granite countertops can last for many years. The cost for granite varies from $75 to $200 per foot, but there is additional cost-savings down the road with having to do less maintenance and repairs to the surface. At Lexmar USA, we work with four slab yards around the Pittsburgh area, providing our customers with an incredible selection of high-quality granite products for your bath.
For bathroom remodels, quartz countertops have become a popular choice for today’s homeowners. Manufactured from 95 percent ground quartz and 5 percent polymer resins, quartz countertops are sometimes referred to as engineered stone or engineered quartz. While similar to granite in sheen and texture, quartz has a more regular pattern. Due to it being an engineered stone, it is available in almost any color.
Quartz is considered a non-porous surface, which is beneficial in high traffic areas like your bathroom. With no pores, bacteria and germs are unable to penetrate the surface making your countertop less susceptible to mold. Having anti-bacterial and germ resistant properties does not mean no cleaning is required—it’s just simpler. Quartz also has stain-resistant properties, which do not require sealing and waxing to prevent stains. These countertops can be kept clean with water, mild dishwashing soap and a soft sponge or cloth. Abrasive cleansers should not be used.
Quartz countertops range in cost from $115 to $200 per square foot. While it may seem pricey, quartz requires little maintenance and it is nearly indestructible and will last a lifetime.
Marble, a sedimentary rock, is often chosen for its elegance and beauty, not for its strength. Weaker than granite and quartz, it is typically used for bathroom countertops rather than kitchens because it sees less stress and abuse.
Marble countertops can last for decades, but regular maintenance is needed. Due to its porous stone, marble countertops need to be sealed regularly to prevent stains and bacteria from setting in. Additionally, harsh cleaners and red wine can easily etch marble surfaces. These scratches can only be resurfaced if your countertop is made of true marble and not cultured marble.
While marble is a beautiful option, it may deter homeowners due to cost. Most marble ranges between $120 and $250 per square foot, making it one of the more expensive countertop options.
While they may look like laminate, solid surface countertops are actually man-made from a combination of materials, such as polyester and acrylics. These countertops are a great alternative for those who desire a durable and stylish material that is less expensive than granite, quartz or marble. Solid surfaces typically cost anywhere from $35 to $100 per square foot.
The “solid” in solid surface means that it is non-porous. This property makes the surface easy to maintain and resistant to damage from any liquids and oils. Additionally, any scratches or damages can be buffed out or sanded down to restore the finish. There is no need to reseal solid surface countertops. These surfaces are not heat resistant, so you must be careful with curling irons and hairdryers.
The variety of colors and patterns available with solid surfaces may seem endless, which is a plus with matching bathroom décor. Another plus is the ability to cut the material into unique and innovative shapes. At Lexmar USA, we pride ourselves on custom cutting and the unique shapes we can provide to your bathroom remodel.
Providing Superior Custom Countertop Solutions for Bathroom Vanities
Lexmar USA, located in McKeesport, PA, not only offers an enormous selection of high quality granite, natural stone and solid surface countertops in a wide array of colors and styles, but we provide customized installations and superb customer service. Our experts provide unmatched custom cutting and custom beveling for your Pittsburgh countertops. We help you decide on the perfect countertop solution for your bathroom— at the best prices. If you would like an estimate on installation or more information on customizing your bathroom vanity tops, please contact our team at 412-896-9266.
Lexmar USA refers its customers to the following quality lender for their financing.
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