One of the ways in which homeowners are sprucing up their houses today as an alternative to buying a new home or in preparation to selling their current home is to remodel their kitchen with new countertops. Sandstone countertops are one way in which a homeowner can add an element of elegance and style to their existing kitchen or to an entire kitchen remodel.

Advantages of Sandstone Countertops

Because sandstone is a natural stone, it can provide warmth and beauty to any kitchen, no matter the décor. There are several advantages to sandstone counters, including providing a unique and elegant decorating element and providing a hard kitchen countertop surface.

In a kitchen, the countertop is one of the primary design elements, but if you use your kitchen with any regularity, then it is important that it be a hard, easy to maintain surface. Sandstone countertops are hard and resistant to damage caused by heat or water.

As with almost any natural stone material, it is important that your sandstone counter be sealed completely when it is installed before it is used. Without a sealant, it may be subject to stains, chips and other damage.

Disadvantages of Sandstone Countertops

The primary disadvantage to sandstone countertops is that they can be damaged if not sealed properly, particularly to chips, stains and water damage. Because of the tendency toward water damage, sandstone is not recommended for bathroom applications.

One of the other problems that sandstone counters can present is that over time, highly acidic cleaners may actually damage the surface. When cleaning sandstone countertops, use a gentle cleaner that is recommended for natural stone surfaces, to ensure long lasting life of the surface of your natural stone counters.

Finally, sandstone countertops are very heavy, in fact, heavier than many other types of countertop materials. Before you decide to have a natural sandstone counter installed, make sure that your sub floor can withstand the weight that this type of counter will place on it.

Choosing an Installer

Many kitchen design studios and kitchen remodeling suppliers also have installers and contractors that they work regularly with or they may have their own installer/contractor on staff. Meet with the potential contractor for your project and ask about estimated costs, including both the cost of materials and labor.

If you are talking to an independent contractor about your project, ask them if they object to you purchasing the materials directly, since this may be a way for you to save money (many contractors add a percentage to the cost of materials for their own profit needs). Also ask about potential installation problems and how they have resolved these problems in the past.

Ask for a few references of past customers and call those people to find out how well this contractor worked with them. Also contact your local Better Business Bureau and state contractors board to determine if there have been any complaints against this contractor and that they are legally licensed in your state.

After talking to and getting estimates from at least three different contractors, select the installer you feel most comfortable with and schedule you project. Make sure you ask about their estimated installation schedule.

Interested in sandstone countertops for your home? Get your project started by submitting a free BuyerZone request for countertop price quotes.