Are you thinking about new kitchen countertops? If using glass as a material for kitchen countertops seems inappropriate, then you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Glass countertops and bathroom vanities are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners who are remodeling their kitchens and bathrooms, and want something new and interesting.

Stylish and beautiful, glass combines marvelous form with functionality. Glass countersoffer an incredible range of design possibilities since the glass can be processed to create many different colors, shapes, and textures. As a translucent material, glass can also be combined with additional design elements for added effects. Glass counters can be seen over aluminum or decorative tile embedded into the slab. Installing lighting under the counter can create awesome drama and elegance.

Glass is non-porous, which makes it an excellent countertop choice. Glass counters require very little maintenance, remain extremely sanitary, and are exceptionally easy to clean. As an added bonus, glass countertops in the kitchen can endure high heat without cracking or scorching.

This type of countertop can also be mounted in a variety of different ways, creating an interesting visual effect, as well as opening up the possibilities for even more design options. An island with an added glass riser can be instantly transformed into an elegant café nook exquisite focal point for the kitchen.

Glass counters are often viewed as beautiful sculpted glass used in a wide range of applications for both the kitchen and bath. The glass can be colored or clear, textured or polished, and is available in a wide variety of patterns. The result is an astonishingly high-end look for just about the same cost as a granite countertop. To find a designer in your area who can create a truly dramatic kitchen using glass countertops, visit NKBA.org/ProSearch.

It’s easy to be a little overwhelmed by all of the countertop materials and possibilities available. There’s the ever-popular granite, acid-washed concrete, ceramic tile, solid surfaces, wood, and laminates to name a few.

If you’re having a difficult time making up your mind, consider picking more than one. Designers say more and more people are mixing materials by putting granite on perimeter countertops and glass countertops on an island.

The vanity area is the focal point of the bathroom, so adding a new vanity is an inexpensive way to dramatically improve the look of your bathroom. It can also help you manage the space in the bathroom in a better way and add a few more amenities.

Advantages of glass countertops:

  • Lend a unique appeal to a kitchen or bathroom
  • Can be cleaned with water and a soft cloth

Disadvantages of glass countertops:

  • Reflect fingerprints
  • Susceptible to cracks

Recycled Glass

We all know that recycling is great for the planet. Every time a glass bottle is recycled, enough energy is saved to light a 100-watt light bulb for 4 hours. Many companies that manufacture glass countertops do so with recycled glass.

This glass often comes from broken, discarded windows that are crushed to a sand-like texture and mixed with other ingredients, including minerals that add color. The mixture is then heated until the glass particles soften and fuse on their edges. This requires far less energy to produce than standard glass. It also uses far less energy than fired ceramic tile.