Choose a Countertop

There has never been a better time to choose a new countertop.

But with the plethora of options, it possibly is the most difficult choice in a remodel. The good news is that with so many options, you can’t loose. There is a surface or substrate that will satisfy both design needs and budgets.

This gorgeous soapstone counter, sink, and backsplash set up is as functional as it is durable.

Granite
Granite has been king for a long time. And some designers are looking elsewhere for new ideas. But there is a reason granite is popular. It is beautiful, durable, and timeless.

Marble
One of the best qualities of marble is the variety of color and veining. Accompany that with its ancient history and marble countertops are always a design winner. Marble does require more care than other stones, but can’t be beaten for classic beauty.

Neolith
Neolith is a new, eco-friendly porcelain material imported from Spain. Because the surface is so hard, it is very heat resistant and will not crack or stain from heat. The hard surface is also extremely resistant to scratches and abrasion.

Soapstone
Soapstone countertops may be the most durable and one of the most stain-free option for kitchens. It’s safe, natural, environmentally friendly and gorgeous. It does age in color and depending on your style, may take maintenance.

Quartz
Quartz, an engineered stone, is exceptionally durable and has infinite color and finish options. It is scratch- and stain-resistant, as well as heat-resistant, and non-absorbent. For kitchen and bathroom remodels, quartz has the added benefit of having antimicrobial properties to protect against bacteria.

Glass
A truly modern touch, recycled glass is a stunning choice for kitchens and bathroom counters. Add some Led lighting to illuminate the top and you have created a mesmerizing, glowing interior that is sure to be a conversation piece.

Butcher block
A classic for a traditional kitchen, butcher block adds warmth and a food-friendly vibe. Butcher block tops can be used as an accent or companion with stone tops or stainless steel for a modern/industrial finish.

Laminate
Laminate tops may seem like a throwback, but with so many options and attractive price, a little laminate can go a long way. Stiff competition has forced the laminate industry’s hand, and the result are stunning.

Concrete
As finishes and colors improve, concrete countertops offer a great option for a custom countertop. A great craftsman touch, concrete tops can be formed with seamless sinks and cutting board recesses.

Stainless Steel
Stainless steel countertops give off an industrial design feel and match the function of commercial kitchens. Integrated sinks, backsplashes, as well as island tops, mix well with a variety of textures and colors.

Tile
Ceramic tile comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, and depending on your taste, can be very inexpensive. Tile also works great in kitchens for handling hot pots and easy cleanup.

Composite
Composite countertops are made from eco-friendly material like recycled paper. They are one of the safest and hygienic countertops for food prep.


Eco-conscious kitchen and bath remodeling

Considering low-impact renovations

Whether you are interested in the green movement or not, there are some innovative new materials and some timeless classics worth considering.

When remodeling a home’s interior spaces there are several ways to easily incorporate environmentally-friendly aspects. Without even considering anything “green” you may want the function, easy cleaning, and mid-range costs of ceramic tile. Tile is actually very eco-friendly in how it is made and in the exceptional durability. Recycled glass tiles are beautiful enough to choose without their green status.

When consciously considering environmentally friendly remodels, you want to minimize the project’s impact from build-out through its lifetime of use. Solid planning can save energy during the build-out and once you are using your new kitchen, you would want energy- and water-saving appliances. LED lighting is a fantastic design accent. LED lights only pull two to 15 watts and last longer than the family cat.

When designing your new bathroom, conserving water use especially in baths is essential. A dual-flush toilet (two flush buttons, one for light work, one for heavy), a low-flow showerhead, and tankless water heaters are readily available ways to go greener.

There is no need to sacrifice top-shelf design to be environmentally friendly in your remodeling project. Reclaimed wood can be upcycled to truly unique rustic doors, tables and countertops. For a dramatic effect, pair a recycled glass counter lit with LED strip lighting from underneath on the kitchen island.


EPA Lead-Safe Certification for remodeling

Cox Kitchens and Baths is now an EPA Certified Lead-Safe firm

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Lead, a toxic metal used for years in products found in and around Mid-Atlantic homes, may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. That is why the designers and installation professionals at Cox Kitchens and Baths have embraced the EPA’s new certification standards for removal and handling of all lead paint situations. Designers Robert Gibbs and Martin Gibbs completed all required training to become EPA Certified Lead Renovator Managers.

Now you can rest assured that the removal of your old hazardous materials will be handled professionally, safely and with the kind of attention to detail that Cox Kitchens and Baths has practiced since 1950.

For more information on EPA’s Lead-Safe program please visit: www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/leadinfo.htm