While its true that cabinets  are the center of interest when it comes to a kitchen remodel, how you top those off can make a big difference to the personality of your room. Countertops and backsplashes can be had in a multitude of materials. All have their pros and cons, but which is right for your family’s kitchen remodel?

COUNTERTOPS Laminate: Laminate countertops are usually the most affordable choice, costing as much as one-third the price of the other materials. They include materials such as Formica which are durable, easy to care for, and come in many colors. However, laminates can easily scratch and chip in ways that can be next to impossible to repair or disguise. Cambria countertopCeramic Tile: A durable and often inexpensive option for counters, tiles are fairly easy to clean, stand up well to heat, and come in a wide selection of colors and textures. On the down side, individual tiles can crack or chip under impact and the grout lines may deteriorate or become stained over time. Solid Surface: Materials such as Corian are both durable and stain resistant. Scratches can be sanded out and there are colors to choose from. Drawbacks include a vulnerability to heat and tendency to be expensive. Wood: Butcher-block counters can lend warmth to the kitchen, but damage from water and stains can happen. Scratches or dings can often be sanded down, re-oiled and sealed. Concrete: Offers the ability to create unusual shapes and edge treatments, and the fun option of embedding keepsakes, treasures or other decorations. Concrete is heat and scratch resistant, but cracking can occur. Concrete is porous and must be properly sealed. Granite: Granite counters are in demand and carry a high value to home buyers. They are one of the most asked for features of a kitchen remodel. Granite’s sleek glossy finish and abundant colors speak of elegance and sophistication. In performance, it is a very hard material (second only to diamonds), handles heat well, and can last a lifetime. Granite can be a costly, but it doesn’t have to be! BACKSPLASHES

A backsplash is the vertical surface of the wall behind your countertops and appliances. It serves to protect the walls from splashes and spills and can be  a striking design element in a kitchen cabinet remodel.

Classic Ceramic Tile: For a classic look, traditional ceramic tiles offers beautiful color options. Tile can be applied in a grid pattern either straight up and down or on the diagonal, or a combination of the two. Mosaics for Color: If color is what you are seeking, mosaic tiles come immediately to mind. These smaller tiles allow an almost infinite versatility in combining color, design and applique elements. Choose from a wide variety of materials including ceramic tiles, glass tiles, and more. Shine and Shimmer with Metal or Glass:  A few such options include stainless steel (which can be flat or used as tiles) and glass tiles. Shiny surfaces reflects light around the room and can add depth. Bring Nature In: Using natural elements such as tumblestone can bring warmth and the feel of nature into your kitchen cabinet remodel. A perfect way to offset  your modern stainless steel appliances! Tumbled stone is also unique in offering a subtlety of color variation and a one of a kind uniqueness.