Choosing remodeling materials that last in a Utah home.

Countertops: quartz, granite and laminate

• Quartz is engineered stone: non-porous, consistent in color and low-maintenance. It can be damaged by very hot pans, so use trivets.
• Granite is natural stone with unique patterns. It handles heat well but should be sealed periodically.
• Laminate is the budget option. Modern patterns look far better than they used to, but it does not tolerate heat or standing water at seams.

Cabinets: what to look for

• Box material matters more than door style. Plywood boxes resist moisture and hold screws better than particleboard, especially under sinks.
• Look for full-extension drawer slides and soft-close hinges. These are the parts you touch every day.
• Stock, semi-custom and custom cabinets differ in sizes, finishes and lead time, and that drives both cost and schedule.

Flooring: LVP, tile and hardwood

• Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is water-resistant and comfortable, a strong choice for basements, kitchens and busy households.
• Porcelain tile is very durable and ideal for bathrooms and entries. It feels colder underfoot unless you add in-floor heat.
• Hardwood adds warmth and can be refinished. In Utah’s dry climate it needs proper acclimation and humidity control to limit gaps.

Showers: what is behind the tile

• The waterproofing membrane behind the tile matters more than the tile itself. Ask which system is used and whether the pan is flood-tested.
• Porcelain tile and solid-surface panels are both good wall options. Large-format tile means fewer grout lines to clean.

Common questions