Are Tiled Countertops Really Practical To Use In Your Kitchen?

Are your countertops starting to crack, peel, or stain? Is their appearance dragging down the aesthetic of your whole kitchen? Countertops are arguably a very important feature to homeowners; with 91% of renovators opting for new countertops, they are the most commonly updated aspect of a kitchen (via Proline Range Hoods). If you've decided to replace yours, but haven't yet settled on a type pf countertop for your remodel, it's time to consider the humble yet stylish ceramic tile!

While the idea of tile countertops may remind you of dated, retro designs and tacky, chipped edges, there are actually several reasons to love them. Stone, marble, and granite have been in the spotlight for years, but Deavita notes that ceramic tile countertops are experiencing a fresh resurgence in interior design. Whether you lean towards traditional or modern kitchen concepts, tiles are an unexpected and unique element to include. Still, you may be wondering, are they really a practical option? Here's what you need to know before committing to tile countertops in your kitchen.

Unlike other low-budget materials like Formica, ceramic tiles won't melt under a hot kettle or pot. Tile retailer Decorcera explains that ceramic tiles are heat-resistant up to nearly 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit if heated slowly. It's true that sudden temperature shock can cause tiles to crack, but if you use a trivet or potholder, your countertops should be totally safe. In the event that you do see a crack or chip, it's relatively easy to remove the broken tile and replace it with a spare. 

In addition to being an affordable and practical solution for kitchens, tiles offer a wide range of creative design opportunities. If you decide to cover your countertops with them, don't be afraid to play around with size, pattern, and arrangement. Solid colors make bold statements in modern kitchens, while more natural stone textures can complete a rustic cottage design. Tiling is an especially classic way to go when you continue the pattern up into the backsplash or use it to create other unique elements in the kitchen, such as cubbyholes and molding.

In addition to the many positives of tile countertops, there are some downsides to consider before fully committing. Because of the porous nature of ceramic, you should avoid preparing food directly on the counter surface; always use a cutting board or parchment paper. According to The Grout Specialist, there are several kinds of bacteria that can be harbored in grout lines. The most common grout resident, scientifically known as Serratia marcescens, doesn't present too much of a threat to your health, but failure to properly clean the grout can invite more dangerous microorganisms like E. coli, salmonella, and even black mold. To properly clean grout, Proline Range Hoods recommends mixing baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap, and scrubbing with a toothbrush. 

Beyond cleaning and repairing, you may still be unconvinced that tile countertops are a practical choice in terms of aesthetics. Like most home design trends, tiles will come and go. For now, they're trendy, but they may not be so desirable in the future. Just like the styles of the '70s and '80s that went out of style, the tile installed today may look dated 20 years from now. If your goal is to maximize your home's resale value, stick to neutral, classic styles and avoid anything too bold or breakable. In short, tile countertops may not be the most practical, but they are a very affordable, durable, and trendy option for people willing to maintain them.