Glass Countertops: Why It Is Great for Your Kitchen

In many kitchens, the common materials for countertops include granite, wood, stainless steel, and laminate. Glass countertops are less common but it does not mean that they are less of a material for countertops. In fact, glass countertops are great for both domestic and commercial kitchens as they provide both sanitary and stylish surface.

Glass countertops are not very common among the masses but they are gaining in popularity among fashionable homeowners who are looking for unique options.

There are several advantages of using glass countertops:

• Can give your kitchen a unique and distinctive style
• Very easy to clean and maintain
• Resistant to heat; will not burn or melt
• Stain-resistant
• Non-porous and very hygienic; not an ideal breeding ground for germs and bacteria
• Wide range of styles available

Glass countertops have many advantages but they are not without flaws. Here are a few important facts that you should know about glass countertops:

1. Just like any type of glass, glass countertops are prone to handprints and fingerprints. If you have small children at home, you might want to reconsider choosing glass countertops since small children often leave handprints without being conscious about it. This could mean constant cleaning if you like to keep your countertops always clean and sanitary.

2. Acidic substances such as vinegar can cause a permanent etch on the surface.

3. If you have a glass countertop, it is best to use a chopping board for cutting or slicing rather than directly on the countertop to avoid scratches.

4. Glass countertops can be more expensive depending on the thickness and dimensions as well as style.

While glass countertops may have some drawbacks, their advantages and benefits still outweigh their disadvantages. That is one reason why they are becoming more and more popular nowadays. If you are convinced that glass is the right countertop material for you, here are some types of glass countertops to consider:

• Slump Glass – Slump glass refers to a glass that is laid in a mold then heated until it softens and follows the shape of the mold. This process gives glass a unique texture with varying shapes depending on the mold used.
• Float Glass – Float glass is the result of “floating” molten glass in a molten tin to produce a sheet of glass that is very flat and smooth and with uniform thickness.
• Kiln-fired Glass – This type of glass is a result of recycling scrap glasses. They are melted in a kiln to produce a new sheet of glass that is typically tough and hard but can be limited in size depending on the size of the kiln.

After choosing your type of glass, it is also important to consider having your glass tempered. Tempered glasses are usually stronger but can be a little expensive.

Glass countertops are both functional and stylish. They may be something novel to many people but they are worth considering especially if you are renovating your kitchen or want to replace your existing countertop.