The Gorgeous Countertop Choice Mike Holmes Recommends For Kitchens & Bathrooms

Choosing the right countertop can transform your kitchen or bathroom. However, it can be tricky to decide which material is ideal for your space. Mike Holmes is an incredible resource for home renovation projects, and he has a clear preference for a specific surface. Holmes is an experienced contractor and the star of several hit HGTV shows. When it comes to his choice for contemporary countertops, he sings the praises of quartz.

There are several reasons why Holmes considers quartz his go-to. He details the benefits on his blog, stating, "They are a popular option for contemporary homes since they need little upkeep and are ideal for kitchens and baths. They are also generally less expensive than granite. We use quartz in almost all of our home renovations." Not only does he favor quartz for his clients, but he even uses quartz surfaces throughout his own home. There are several different colors and designs to choose from, and these are the best and worst types of quartz countertops for your home's resale value.

Quartz is regarded as the most durable countertop material. If resilience is your priority, quartz is an option you should undoubtedly consider. While it is difficult to damage through normal household use, there are six things you should never do if you have quartz countertops. Aesthetically, quartz is available in a wide range of patterns and finishes depending on your taste and stylistic goals. You can opt for an all-white, minimalist appearance, or you can choose a quartz surface that mimics the look of real stone. For his own home, Mike Holmes chose a variation with bold, brown veining to imitate the appearance of marble.

You can purchase quartz with different levels of thickness, but slabs between ¾ of an inch and 1 ¾ are standard. Keep in mind that, because of their weight, installation is not a DIY project. However, with the help of a professional, quartz can be a great option for countertops with unconventional shapes. Holmes explains their seamless appearance in this blog post: "Quartz will be consistent throughout in pattern and color, so seams are easier to hide and match." Beyond the superficial benefits, quartz is a low-maintenance option because it is nonporous. This means that countertops won't absorb dangerous bacteria or mold. Typically, you only need to use mild soap and a wet cloth for regular maintenance. Make sure to avoid these quartz countertop cleaning mistakes that everyone makes.