Bath Design Basics

Top off this room's look with the right countertop materials.

Surface materials set the tone for the bath and can provide years of maintenance-free use. Here is a primer on the most popular countertops, their maintenance requirements, and average costs.

Cultured Marble

This stain-resistant and waterproof material stands up to normal wear and tear. A mix of natural marble chips embedded in fiberglass resin, it is cast in a mold. Colors will vary.

Clean countertops regularly with nonabrasive liquid cleaners. In the event of small scratches or stains, rub gently with a car polish compound.

Typical cost: $50-$80/running foot, installed.

Granite

Durability makes this natural stone a good choice. It's available in tones of brown, black, green, or blue,

Clean granite with a nonabrasive foam or liquid cleanser, warm water, and a soft cloth. Rub dull or scratched surfaces with a car polish compound, and apply a liquid wax.

Typical cost: $125-$250/running foot, installed.

Solid Surfaces

Countertops made of this material have many of the same selling points as stone. Low-maintenance and durable, solid surfaces resist stains and are easy to clean. They can be damaged by heat, though, so hot styling tools should not rest on them.

Clean with abrasive cleansers to restore the original luster.

Typical cost: $100-$250/running foot, installed.

Plastic Laminates

Cost-effective and relatively durable, laminates come in multiple colors for a variety of looks. They require more maintenance because they can be stained by cosmetics and dyes. They also are not heat-resistant and can be damaged by abrasive objects.

Clean the countertops using a soft cloth and mild cleanser. Periodically apply a self-cleaning wax to prolong the life of your laminate countertop.

Typical cost: $20-$50/running foot.

Ceramic Tile

From vivid colors to tumbled natural stones, tiles provide a one-of-a-kind look. However, the grout can trap dirt and mildew. Avoid this problem by properly sealing and maintaining the tile, or by matching the grout to the color of the tile and keeping it sealed.

Typical cost: $10-$40/running foot, installed. AMY BICKERS MERCER

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Mar 2004
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