If you’re out there for a kitchen makeover, then you have probably spent hours debating countertop choices. Granite or marble? Laminate or quartz? Soapstone or stainless steel? Just to add to your issue, here’s an additional player on the scene: copper. Though it’s not quite as common as its counter cousins, this timeless favorite is increasing in popularity, and it’s well worth adding to a list of possibilities. Here is what you need to know.
The Refined Group
The Experts of Copper
Ease of maintenance. It may sound surprising, but copper is relatively simple to wash. A mixture of lemon juice and salt will scour it nicely (be sure to rinse then), however you might also get by with warm water and a squirt of dish soap. Dry the face thoroughly and oil or wax occasionally to keep it in the best possible form.
Oak Hill Iron
Mellow patina. Recognized a “alive” surface, copper tarnishes because it oxidizes and responds to the substances that cross it. For many, that’s part of its allure. Unsealed copper will gradually dull and transition to a blend of reds reds, reds and greens, and a lot of homeowners love for the personality it provides.
Lorin Hill
Germ resistance. Some — but not all — copper alloys have natural antimicrobial properties. The Environmental Protection Agency regulates this particular claim and requires manufacturers to register antimicrobial copper products, so check with the EPA should you want to ensure your copper countertop (like these along the perimeter of the kitchen) will resist germs.
Robin Rigby Fisher CMKBD/CAPS
Green living. Copper frequently can be uninstalled from scrap yards or industrial applications, so it’s popular with those dedicated to sustainable living.
PMWArchitects
Versatility. Copper is a chameleon — it may take on a variety of personalities to suit your space. It feels as appropriate in a contemporary townhouse or an industrial loft as it can in a traditional kitchen or a comfortable cabin.
Conrado – Home Builders
The Cons of Copper
Discoloration. This is actually the flip side of this fairly patina that copper develops. If you’re connected to the new-penny look of shiny copper, you’ll need to be diligent about resealing. Have a look at examples of aged copper countertops to find out whether or how much you’ll still enjoy them years in the future.
Oak Hill Iron
Dings and scratches. Because it’s soft, copper is easily marred by knives and heavy pots and is susceptible to everyday wear and tear. Although these frequently could be buffed out, some people today like the sense of age that results. If you’re really concerned about dents, then elect for a otherwise distressed end, which will not show them nearly as prominently.
Group 3
Cost. Copper does not come cheap. The typical cost ranges from $100 to $175 per square foot installed. It requires skill to affix copper sheeting correctly to a substrate, so this is a tricky task for the average DIYer, too.
Tell us Have you tried copper countertops in your kitchen? Leave a comment and let us know what you think!
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