QUICK GUIDE TO COUNTERTOP MATERIALS

from Four Corners Real Estate

by Ballantine Communications

Four Corners community events

Quartz

Quartz is considered a low-maintenance and durable countertop material. The home improvement experts at This Old House note that quartz countertops are typically 94% ground quartz and now come with an honed, sandblasted or embossed treatment, which makes them appealing to homeowners with varying ideas on the ideal look of a kitchen countertop. Quartz can crack if it’s not handled properly, and edges and corners can chip over time. Rounded edges can minimize the risk of chipping. Costs vary by location and product availability, but quartz typically costs about the same as natural stone.

Granite

Consumer Reports notes that no two slabs of granite are the same, and that uniqueness has long appealed to homeowners. Tests run by Consumer Reports found that heat, cuts and scratches did not harm granite, though this material, like quartz, can crack around edges and corners. Granite is a durable material that, if properly maintained, can last several decades. Granite also is nonporous, which makes it resistant to bacteria.

Laminate

Laminate countertops appeal to budget-friendly homeowners and Consumer Reports notes that they’re easy to install. Home Depot also notes that laminate countertops come in a wide range of colors, textures and designs. Laminate countertops also are durable, which helps budget-conscious homeowners stretch their dollars even further. Laminate countertops are easily maintained, though it’s also easy to permanently damage them with knives, so Consumer Reports recommends always using a cutting board when preparing meals on laminate.

Butcher Block

Butcher block countertops are among the more unique options homeowners may consider. Sometimes referred to as “wood countertops,” butcher block countertops are made from wooden strips that are fused together. Butcher block is among the more affordable materials, but the final cost will be dictated by location and availability. Butcher block countertops are highly sensitive to liquid, so exposure to moisture should be limited. Sealing butcher block countertops immediately after installation can help protect against bacteria and warping. Though butcher blocks can be high maintenance, many homeowners find the unique look is well worth the extra elbow grease.

Architecturally designed 3 bedrooms, 2 bath home on 11 irrigated acres featuring a curving staircase, wood floors, tall ceilings, two car garage, carport and RV pad. The kitchen features a butcher block island with extra storage, a commercial six-burner gas stove, under-cabinet lighting, and a hanging pan rack. The main bedroom has a large bath with double sinks and a soaking tub with beautiful views and two walk-in closets. The large laundry room has extra space and cabinets for a hobby/craft area. The back of the home has decks and a flagstone patio. The fenced backyard is landscaped and also features a matching shed for your lawn equipment/patio furniture storage and 2 dog kennels. Property has no Home Owners Association or Covenants, free to do whatever you want within county rules, possibly a VRBO. Only 15 mins from Durango and five minutes from Mercy Hospital. Visit the property website for more information: https://www.tourfactory.com/3076465

MLS #798464 priced at $1,045,000

Top of the world views from fabulous county home in Durango Colorado

This legacy property is situated on the pinnacle lot of Destination Ranch. It was made famous by the movie “City Slickers”. This lot has breathtaking views in every direction, including of iconic La Plata Mountains and is just 20 minutes from Durango. Destination Ranch, is an exclusive, gated working cattle ranch. The pinnacle lot consists of 40 acres with a blend of three multiple acre pastures accented with an extensive system of tractor wide trails. Enjoy the front patio, fountain, pond and manicured lawn area, which are a sanctuary of relaxation. Inside, the home is spacious and very comfortable. The living, dining, and kitchen areas have an open living floorplan, with the living room being highlighted by a beamed, vaulted ceiling. The chef’s kitchen includes lots of storage and a large pantry. The master suite has it’s own, private balcony, a fireplace, and a gorgeous bathroom with a unique, stone wall shower with views of Missionary Ridge. The lower levels have even more space with a recreation room that accommodates a pool table, TV area, bar, office home gym, and home theater with high tech features. Finishing off the lower level are two bedrooms, with their own bath and outside space. This home has four heat zones, alarm system, and two outside cameras – all internet accessible. Utility costs for this efficient home are amazingly low, with water at no charge, propane mainly winter use only and electric costs averaging under $200/month (previous 12 months). This mountain home is one of a kind and must be seen to be fully appreciated. For more information see the property website: https://www.tourfactory.com/3092255

MLS #805589 priced at $2,985,000