Everyone loves the beauty that tile [https://grout-experts.com/] and natural stone bring to a space, but some may not realize these products also improve sanitation of your kitchen. There are several reasons why they are a good choice over other products, but first you have to understand some basics about both options.

Non-Tile Options

Non-tile countertop products [https://www.thespruce.com/kitchen-countertops-cheat-sheet-1822100] include butcher block, concrete, and other types of wood products. Older homes may have formica or a laminate countertop. The butcher block, wood products, laminates and formica can be easily damaged with cutting, stains and burns from hot items. These things are not attractive, but they can also be grooves for food debris and bacteria to grow. Concrete is more durable but can also have grooves in the setting of it that can trap debris.

The second problem with these types of countertops is that many are manufactured as a one-size-fits-all type approach, meaning they are sized exact to your cabinets. There are usually crevices underneath between the countertop ledge and the cabinets. These are the perfect breeding spot for bugs. They are out-of-sight, dark, and near food sources. The problem is you won’t realize there is a bug problem until there is a serious enough problem that it becomes visible.

Tile and Natural Stone

Tile and natural stone offer a clean surface that withstands cuts, stains and other types of hard use. Some of the toughest minerals for kitchen use include granite [https://www.consumerreports.org/kitchen-countertops/best-countertops-for-busy-kitchens/] and red tile [https://www.tileshop.com/color/red/]. Granite is used widely in homes because of its hundreds of available colors, its unique markings, and its price value when it comes to resale and durability. Red tile is used in many commercial kitchens, so homeowners can be assured of its value. It is easily cleaned and withstands stains as well.

Tile and natural stone can be porous, depending on the product, so it is important to ask about its ability to handle water and grease before you buy. All tile and stone should be sealed before you start using it. Sealing not only protects the stone from stains and seepage, but also protects your grout. Natural stone and tile can chip and crack with years of use, but many do not know these products can be easily repaired [https://grout-experts.com/services/replace-cracked-tile/]. In some cases, it is easier and cheaper to repair these types of countertops than repair or replace countertops made from other less expensive products. Most people contact a professional to do a top-notch repair on their natural stone or tile countertops, although some repairs can be done yourself. A professional provides a stress-free experience and leaves a clean work space afterward.

Installation

The other primary benefit of using tile and natural stone for your kitchen is they can be installed seamlessly [https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/interior-projects/how-to/a3080/how-to-choose-the-right-countertop/], meaning they fit your cabinets to the exact measurements. There are no crevices, grooves or spaces between your countertops and your cabinets. That leaves no room for food debris or bug breeding grounds. While many people think tile or natural stone countertop installation [https://grout-experts.com/services/tile-installation/] is pricey, it may not be as expensive as you think. Homeowners that compare the durability and ease of repair of tile and natural stone to other products, find the initial up-front cost is worth the long-term savings.

Those choosing tile and natural stone for their kitchen cabinets will also have peace of mind that they are providing the healthiest kitchen possible for their family.