When you walk into a well-designed kitchen, the countertop is undoubtedly the first thing that catches your eye. Whether you are a foodie who loves to cook or just use your kitchen as a place to eat, the countertop is crucial to the overall beauty and functionality of the kitchen. You may have already chosen the ideal material and color, but when it comes to choosing the countertop surface, you may be confused: Is a matte finish or a glossy finish more suitable for my kitchen?
This question is not simple, because both have their own unique charm and function. Matte finishes bring a gentle and low-key beauty, while glossy finishes give the kitchen a bright and modern look. Well, this article will take you to an in-depth understanding of matte and glossy finish stone for kitchen countertops, helping you make the best choice when designing your kitchen.
Table of Contents
1. Matte finishes for kitchen countertops
1.1. Black matte quartz countertops
1.2. White matte quartz countertops
1.3. Matte stone countertops
1.4. Matte natural countertops
2. Glossy finishes for kitchen countertops
2.1. Glossy backsplash finish
2.2. Glossy butcher block finish
3. How to clean matte quartz countertops?
4. Can you use matte tiles with glossy countertops?
5. How to make countertops shiny?
6. How much do new and refurbished countertops cost?
7. Conclusion
Matte Finishes for Kitchen Countertops
Counters with matte finishes have become increasingly popular in recent years. They do not have the reflective effect of glossy surfaces, giving a soft and calm feeling. Matt countertops are more suitable for those who prefer a low-key aesthetic, while also being able to hide small scratches and fingerprints that are inevitable in daily use. Matte finishes are particularly suitable for modern or industrial kitchens because they do not have the strong reflective effect of glossy surfaces, but instead attract people with their natural texture.
Matte black quartz countertops
If you like black, then matte black quartz countertops will be an attractive choice. Black itself has a sense of nobility, and the matte finish gives it an unobtrusive elegance. Compared with glossy black quartz, matte is better able to hide traces of daily use such as water stains and fingerprints. It can add a modern and cool atmosphere to your kitchen while maintaining a gentle touch.
Matte black quartz countertops are very suitable for light-colored cabinets or stainless steel appliances, providing a strong sense of contrast to the kitchen space. If you are looking for a simple but personalized kitchen design, then this choice will satisfy you.
Matte white quartz countertops
Compared with matte black, matte white quartz countertops give people a pure and simple feeling. White countertops have always been a classic choice for kitchen design, and the matte finish makes it more modern and low-key luxury. Matte white countertops do not reflect as much light as glossy countertops, so they can bring a soft atmosphere to the kitchen.
White matte quartz countertops are perfect for those who want their kitchen space to appear more spacious and bright. It can be matched with cabinets of various colors, whether dark or light, white matte countertops can easily blend in and become the highlight of the kitchen. In addition, matte finishes are relatively easy to maintain, and you don't have to worry about wiping fingerprints off the countertop every day.
Matte stone countertops
In addition to quartz, natural stones such as granite and marble can also have matte finishes. Matte marble countertops give people a natural beauty and warm touch, which is very suitable for families who pursue a natural and rustic style. Although marble countertops require more maintenance, the matte finish can well hide small flaws and avoid affecting the beauty due to daily use.
The matte finish of granite countertops is also highly practical, especially for those who like sturdy and durable countertops. Compared with the smooth surface of the glossy surface, the matte granite countertop feels more natural and gives people a rustic sense of life.
Matte natural countertops
Matte natural countertops usually refer to those natural stone countertops that have not been chemically treated. They retain the original texture and color of the stone, bringing a primitive natural beauty to the kitchen. Whether it is a rough slate countertop or a soft sandstone, matte natural countertops make the kitchen look unique and full of personality.
These countertops are usually suitable for families who want the kitchen to be full of natural atmosphere. They are not just countertops, but more like a part of nature brought into the kitchen. Although these countertops require more maintenance, their unique beauty is irresistible.
Glossy Finish for Kitchen Countertops
In contrast to matte finishes, glossy finish countertops have a high light reflective effect, which can bring a clean and bright visual effect to the kitchen. Glossy finishes are usually more suitable for modern kitchens. It not only makes the space look more spacious and bright, but also adds a sense of luxury.
Glossy backsplash finish
Glossy backsplash finishes are usually designed to match the countertops. They not only protect the walls, but also enhance the overall visual effect of the kitchen. Especially when using glossy tiles or stones as backsplashes, glossy backsplashes can reflect more light and make the kitchen look more transparent and bright.
For example, if your kitchen countertops are glossy quartz or marble, choosing a backsplash with the same glossy finish will form an overall visual effect and give people a sense of design coherence. At the same time, glossy backsplashes are also very easy to clean, which is a very practical choice for those who like to keep their kitchens clean and tidy.
Glossy butcher block finish
Glossy butcher block finishes are usually found on a part of the kitchen countertop, especially in those areas where food is often handled. Glossy stone not only looks high-end, but also very easy to wipe clean, which is a blessing for cooking enthusiasts. Glossy butcher blocks can remove grease and food residues faster than matte countertops.
Glossy cutting boards are not only functional, but also add a beautiful scenery to the kitchen. Imagine that you are preparing a grand family dinner, and the glossy cutting board countertop reflects warm light under the light, and the whole kitchen seems to be lit up. What a wonderful experience.
How to Clean Matte Quartz Countertops?
Matte quartz countertops are relatively simple to clean, but you need to be careful to use the right cleaner. Because matte finishes are not easy to show fingerprints and stains, it is easier to maintain than glossy countertops. However, remember to avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners, as these chemicals will destroy the texture of the matte surface.
A simple cleaning method is to use warm water and neutral soap, and gently wipe the countertop with a soft cloth. For stubborn stains, you can make a paste with a small amount of baking soda and water, gently wipe the stained area, and then rinse it with clean water.
Can You Use Matte Tiles With Glossy Countertops?
This is a common question for many owners when designing their kitchens. The answer is yes, matte tiles and glossy countertops can not only coexist, but also produce surprising effects. The rustic feel of matte tiles and the luxury of glossy countertops form a unique contrast, and this combination can add more layers and personality to the kitchen.
For example, if you choose a glossy quartz countertop, pairing it with matte tiles as a backsplash can make the kitchen look stylish and warm. Such a design not only adds visual interest to the kitchen, but also makes the entire space more deep and layered.
How to Make the Countertop Shiny?
If your countertop originally has a matte or fading surface, but you want it to become more shiny, you can try using some specialized polishes or sealants. Stone polishes can effectively restore the gloss of the countertop, while sealants can form a protective film on the countertop to prevent stains from penetrating the stone.
Regular maintenance is also an important step to maintain the gloss of the countertop. It is recommended to thoroughly clean and polish the countertop every few months to keep it in its best condition. If it is a natural stone countertop, you can also consider regular sealing, which will not only keep the countertop shiny, but also extend its life.
How Much Does a New and Renovated Countertop Cost?
The cost of installing a new countertop or renovating an old one varies depending on the material and process. Generally speaking, high-end materials such as quartz and marble are more expensive, while composite materials and artificial stone are relatively cheap. The cost of installing a new countertop usually includes material and labor costs, while the cost of renovating an old countertop depends on the complexity of the renovation process.
If you plan to replace your countertop, it is recommended to communicate with a professional stone supplier or installer in advance to understand the prices and maintenance requirements of different materials. This way, you can make the most appropriate choice based on your budget and actual needs.
Conclusion
Matte and glossy finishes have their own advantages and are suitable for kitchens of different styles and needs. Matte finishes attract many people who pursue a simple and natural style with their soft and low-key beauty, while the high reflective effect of glossy finishes brings a modern and luxurious feel to the kitchen. No matter which finish you choose, as long as they are matched properly, they can add infinite charm to your kitchen.