Waterfall Countertops: Drink in All You Need to Know
Want to give your kitchen the “wow” factor it deserves? (You spend a total of 400 hours there a year, so you totally should!) Nothing makes a splash quite like waterfall countertops. These beauties flow down the sides of your cabinets like a graceful waterfall, creating a seamless and fluid look that’ll make you and any house guests, welcome or not, go gaga. Not only are they stylish, but they’re also easy to clean and maintain, thanks to their continuous design. It’s hard to pinpoint where this design came from exactly as its idea isn’t technically new, even though its rise in popularity is. What we can confirm – they’ve become a contemporary sight in many Charlotte kitchen remodels and we are here for it.
Plus, with a variety of materials and designs to choose from, it’s easy to find the waterfall countertop that will continue to be in style year after year. “Drink in” all you need to know about these sensational countertops with the information we’ve gathered for you below.
What are Waterfall Countertops?
Let’s take a closer look at what sets waterfall countertops apart from traditional options. These eye-catching countertops flow down the sides of your cabinets, creating an uninterrupted surface. Waterfall countertops have become a staple in modern and contemporary kitchen designs, adding a touch of sophistication to any space.
Even if you’re not a modern design aficionado, you can still enjoy the waterfall effect in your kitchen. That’s because these countertops can be customized to fit any kitchen space, regardless of style. So whether you have a small galley kitchen or a large open-concept space, you can enjoy the striking look of a waterfall countertop.
Other benefits of this design choice?
- Visual appeal: Waterfall countertops have a unique and striking look that creates a bold and modern statement in any kitchen or bathroom. They add a sleek, contemporary touch to the space and create a seamless flow between the countertop and cabinetry.
- Adds depth: A waterfall countertop adds visual depth to the room, making it appear more spacious and luxurious.
- Durable: Waterfall countertops are durable and can withstand heavy use and wear as long as you select an appropriate material (see below). The vertical panel of material provides added strength and stability to the countertop and protects the sides of your cabinets.
- Versatility: Waterfall countertops can be made from a variety of materials, including quartz, granite, marble, and even wood, giving homeowners a wide range of options to choose from. Material selection will influence the size, complexity and cost of the final design, so it’s important that your kitchen designer and countertop fabricator are working closely to alert you to any limitations.
- Increased home value: The unique and modern look of a waterfall countertop can increase the overall value of a home, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchen or bathroom.
Types of Waterfall Countertops
When it comes to waterfall countertops, there are a variety of materials to choose from, each with their unique advantages and disadvantages.
For a natural look, natural stone such as marble, granite or quartzite is a popular choice. These materials offer a one-of-a-kind look with natural veining and patterns that can’t be replicated. However, they can be more expensive and require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Due to the mineral make-up of each stone and the varying degrees of hardness or impurities in each slab, not all stones are strong enough for a waterfall installation. Your countertop fabricator and designer will be able to point out which stones would be most appropriate.
If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly but still stylish, engineered stone such as quartz is a great option. This material is durable, low-maintenance, and available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Due to the manufacturing process, quartz slabs are typically a little smaller than stone slabs, so take this into consideration when determining the finished size of your countertop.
For a truly unique look, concrete waterfall countertops offer an industrial and modern feel. They can be customized to fit any size or shape and can be stained or sealed to match any kitchen style. However, they may not be as durable as other materials and can require more maintenance to prevent cracking or staining.
Ultimately, the best choice for your kitchen will depend on your lifestyle and design preferences. So, whether you opt for the natural beauty of marble or the affordability of quartz, a waterfall countertop is sure to make a statement in your kitchen.
Beyond the Kitchen: Unexpected Uses for Waterfall Countertops
When most people think of waterfall countertops, their minds gravitate toward modern, chic kitchens with sleek designs and minimalist aesthetics. However, it’s time to shake things up and broaden your horizons when it comes to this trend-setting style.
One unexpected place you can use waterfall countertops is in your bathroom. Picture yourself luxuriating in a spa-like atmosphere, soaking in a deep tub, and taking in the stunning beauty of your marble or quartzite waterfall countertop. With its smooth, uninterrupted flow from the countertop to the floor, it’s sure to give your bathroom an instant upgrade, transforming it into a tranquil oasis.
While we’re talking about taking your bathroom design up a notch, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention miter shower seats. The installation method and overall look of mitered shower seats are the same as for waterfall countertops. These seats represent just one more way you can use the appearance of a waterfall edge to upgrade your bathroom.
Waterfall Countertop Maintenance and Care
While we all desire a visually stunning waterfall countertop without much upkeep, the reality is that proper care and maintenance are essential to maintaining its pristine appearance.
One strategy to reduce maintenance is to select low-maintenance materials such as quartz or wood. Additionally, prompt cleanup of spills and stains will prevent any long-term damage.
When cleaning your waterfall countertop, it is crucial to avoid abrasive substances or tools that can potentially scratch the surface. Instead, utilize a mild cleanser and soft cloth to regularly wipe down the surface. Employing a cutting board or trivet when cooking or placing hot objects on the countertop is another prudent measure to avoid scratches or other damages.
Despite our best efforts, accidents do happen. However, there is no need to despair, as there are numerous DIY and professional repair services available to restore your countertop’s glory.
Waterfall Countertop Cost and Installation
While waterfall countertops are undoubtedly striking, their price tag can make some homeowners hesitate. The cost of a waterfall countertop can be attributed to several factors, including the additional material needed for the “waterfall” effect, which can result in more waste during the manufacturing process. Additionally, the installation process is more complex than traditional countertops, requiring precise cuts and careful placement to create a seamless look.
This complexity is further increased by the need to finish and polish both sides of the waterfall, which may not be possible with all materials. All of these factors combine to make waterfall countertops a significantly more expensive option. But for those willing to invest in their kitchen’s design, the look of a waterfall countertop is well worth the cost.
Swept Away by Waterfall Countertops
After all that we’ve covered, it’s clear that a waterfall countertop is a luxurious addition to any modern kitchen design. From the exquisite aesthetics to the enhanced functionality, it’s easy to see why this trend has caught on like wildfire.
If you’re on the hunt for a trusted partner to make your waterfall countertop vision a reality, ReVision has got you covered. Our team of experts has years of experience in delivering top-quality home renovation services, including custom countertop design and installation. Reach out to us today and take the first step towards creating a kitchen that’s both stylish and functional.