copper countertops 2 Page 1

Copper Countertops vs. Stainless Steel - 2

...Stainless-steel counters cost from $50 to $90 a square foot plus installation. And of course you also have the cost of sinks, backsplashes, and cutouts. You or your contractor will need to take the necessary measurements so you know what you need. It's recommended that you have them professionally installed but if you are handy it is a project you might undertake yourself.

Metal countertops are not always stainless steel. In fact for many kitchens stainless just feels to distant or cool. Copper has always been popular for pots and pans and backsplashes and now it is increasingly finding a place in the kitchen counter. While copper countertops may not be mainstream it makes a wonderfully unusual statement and it is certainly warm and appealing. Copper is a much softer metal than stainless steel. Your countertops should be a minimum of .60 thick and .80 is preferred for better performance and strength.

Unlike stainless over time copper countertops change developing a beautiful patina. They shiny copper takes on a beautiful rosy brown color and scratches are considered part of the natural patina so they are not dealt with.

Copper is an excellent antibacterial material and all that's involved in cleaning is soap and water. Maintenance just requires beeswax applied to preserve the finish and help reduce fingerprints.

Copper isn't cheap so countertops are custom quoted. In general estimates usually run around $175 per square foot installed. Copper tends to warp more than stainless and it not recommended that you attempt to install it by yourself.

More times than not, you will be glad that you learned all about copper countertops. You will find yourself referring back to this information many times as well. Especially when you are in the middle of installing your countertops.

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