Copper Countertops – Things You Need to Know

By | April 8, 2012

The moment you think of remodeling your kitchen, you’ll obviously remember the natural stone countertops such as marble, granite, or soapstone. But, you can be unique showing your interest in your kitchen by using copper countertops. Get to know about these countertops.

Copper countertops bring a warm ambiance to your kitchen. Copper is a relatively soft metal – it can be molded to different shapes. Countertops can be made with this metal with varying finishes like a hammered or reverse hammered surface. However, because of its softness, copper will easily dent and scratch. Also, with age, the surface of copper which is known for its rich and golden-brown color will change as the copper interacts with oxygen. This color-changing process is called as patina. You need to apply a wax or a sealer to maintain a uniform color and prevent color tone changes. It is considered that some alloys of copper are antimicrobial reducing the contact of the metal with certain types of bacteria. But, if the countertop is sealed, this effect is negated as it forms a barrier over the copper. These countertops can be integrated with copper sinks without any seams.

Low maintenance of copper countertops make it preferable by many homeowners. It can be cleaned just with a soft cloth and water to remove crumbs or dust. To wipe off harder stains, you can use mild dish soap. Remember, along with cleaning, proper maintenance like use of sealers and cutting board should be ensured to enhance their life. Now that you know the features of copper countertops, check your budget and get your kitchen remodeling done with these metal surfaces.