Choosing high-quality kitchen work surfaces for your new kitchen remodel is one of the most important aspects of any kitchen design project. After all, the countertops bring together all the other aspects of the kitchen design. Selecting the kitchen countertops is not an easy process, as there are many materials and styles to choose from. You may know you want a natural stone countertop, but there are hundreds of different colours, stone types and finishes to choose from. Once you know what stone type and colour you want to use, then you must consider the different surface finishes of the stone you choose. To help you distinguish the difference and select the right finish, let me define what the different types of surface finishes are. This way you will make a more informed decision as to the style and type of kitchen surface you want.
Flamed Stone Finish
This is an exceedingly rough type of surface and is only attained by applying high heat to the stone. The manufacture heats the stone to a very high temperature, causing crystals to materialize on the surface, thereby making it rougher. This creates a very porous material, which usually needs some type of final treatment and sealing. Although it is a natural stone, this stone finish should only be used in areas that do not see a lot of traffic or use.
Polished
Although some stone countertops are rough to the touch, there are also those that have a high polished finish. These high-quality kitchen work surfaces are extremely shiny. Manufacturers obtain this shiny look by using a machine to polish the stone. The shine is a natural gloss and not one attained by some sort of coating or finish. This type of countertop is nonporous, smooth and shiny. It works well in kitchen areas that receive a lot of use.
Honed
To get a honed look, a manufacture will also use a machine process. This gives the stone a satin surface, which looks smooth but not shiny, with only a low sheen to it. Colours for these types type of high-quality kitchen work surfaces are usually neutral and blend well with other colours in the kitchen.
Sandblast
This countertop is attained by using a pressure wash of sandy water. It is a highly textured surface, but does have a little bit of the matte gloss. These high quality kitchen surfaces are quickly becoming very popular, as they have a more environmentally friendly look.
Other finishes include the brushed look, where a coarse wire is brushed along the smooth stone to get a worn look. There is also the acid watch, which involves pouring acid on the stone to get an uneven textured and aged appearance.
The point of explaining the different finishes of high quality kitchen surfaces is to help you make a more informed and better choice, so that you can enjoy the lasting durability and beauty of the countertops you choose.
