The Pros & Cons of Glass Countertops

These days, many homeowners are looking for more unique materials to design their spaces. As far as kitchens are concerned, there’s a seemingly endless amount of materials to choose from, making it possible to customize a space that truly reflects the personality of the homeowner. While classic materials such as granite and marble continue to reign supreme in more traditional spaces, we’re seeing metals, engineered stones, and even concrete make an appearance in more contemporary designs. Glass, one of the most versatile and unique materials available, is becoming more and more popular in the kitchen as designers and homeowners embrace more imaginative designs. If you’re looking for a distinct and fresh look for your kitchen, a glass countertop may be exactly what your space needs.

The Pros

Glass countertops are one of the most versatile materials you can use in your kitchen. As you’ll see below, glass countertops are available in a wide variety of styles, colors, and textures. Because it can be shaped and formed into an endless number of different styles, glass pairs well with just about any material and can create some seriously unique designs that stretch the imagination.

 

Glass countertops are also extremely durable, and because it won’t age over time, there’s no need to worry about visible wear or discoloration. Unlike some natural stone or metal countertops, glass is extremely heat resistant, so you can safely place hot pots and pans right on the surface without worrying about warping or shrinkage. Maintenance is also a breeze because glass countertops aren’t porous like granite or other stone materials. Spills can be easily wiped off without any worry of staining. The lack of porosity also makes glass a hygienic option as there are no cracks or crevices for dirt and bacteria to get trapped in.

Many glass countertops are made from recycled materials, making it a great eco-friendly option for homeowners who are concerned with watching their environmental footprint. This also makes it a comparatively cheaper option than natural stone or metal materials.

The Cons

Though quite durable, glass countertops are not immune to damage. Sharp or heavy objects can cause the countertop to crack, chip, or dent, and unlike other countertop materials, glass is extremely difficult and costly to repair. Some kinds of damage are not able to be repaired at all, possibly leaving you with a damaged countertop that needs replacing. These possible costs along with the higher cost of installation may be a reason to avoid glass countertops.

The Styles

Crushed Glass

Fairly new to the design market, recycled pieces of crushed glass set in acrylic or concrete are an eye-catching countertop option for more contemporary and eclectic kitchen design styles. Crushed glass set in acrylic gives the appearance of glass floating in liquid, while glass set in concrete gives a more artistic, mosaic-like look. Both options are highly durable and attractive, despite usually being made of recycled materials.

Back-Painted Glass

If you’d like a solid-colored countertop, glass is a great way to have a unique spin on an otherwise simplistic look. Back-painted glass countertops offer a very clean look that’ll complement your sleek modern or contemporary kitchen design.

Functional Art

If simple solid colors are just too bland for your eclectic taste, then functional art designs just may be right up your alley. With painted artistic designs embedded right into the glass, your museum-ready countertop is bound to be the star attraction in your kitchen.

Textured Glass

For a super contemporary look, utilizing glass in its clear state with a textured design is an awesome way to lend a futuristic, unique and eye-catching look to your kitchen. From fun swirls and curlicues to crackled, dimpled or water-like textures, you’re sure to find a look that speaks to your personality and personal design style.

Glass with LED

If you love accent lighting and are looking to go way outside of the box with your kitchen countertop, then adding LED lights will surely take your countertop to the next level. For ultra-modern, sleek, futuristic kitchens, back-lit textured glass countertops are a breathtaking sight to behold, especially when paired with a waterfall edge.