Overwhelmed by material choices? Our expert guide to material selection for Minneapolis remodels covers durability, style, and what works best for MN homes.
Expert Material Selection: A Guide for Your Minneapolis Remodel
Choosing materials for your kitchen or bathroom remodel is one of the most exciting—and daunting—parts of the process. With endless options for countertops, flooring, and cabinetry, how do you ensure your selections are beautiful, durable, and right for your home?
This is where expert material selection becomes invaluable. At Laghmich, we don’t just present you with samples; we act as your guide, leveraging our deep knowledge of products, performance, and Minneapolis-specific needs to help you build a space you’ll love for years to come.
Beyond Aesthetics: The 3 Pillars of Expert Material Selection
Choosing materials based on looks alone is a common mistake. We evaluate every option against three core principles:
Durability & Lifestyle: How will this material stand up to your daily life? We consider factors like scratch resistance, water tolerance, and maintenance requirements. A family kitchen needs a different countertop than a formal powder room.
Function & Performance: Does it work for its intended purpose? Is the flooring slip-resistant? Is the countertop safe for hot pans? We match the material's properties to the function of the space.
Style & Cohesion: Does it create the visual feel you want? We help you curate a palette where all materials work in harmony, from the large surfaces down to the finest details.
Navigating Common Material Choices for Minneapolis Homes
Here’s a breakdown of how we approach key material categories:
Countertops: The Work Surface
Quartz: Our top recommendation for most Minneapolis kitchens. It’s non-porous, incredibly durable, resistant to stains, and requires no sealing—perfect for busy families.
Granite: A classic natural stone. It offers unique beauty but requires annual sealing to resist stains, especially from acidic substances common in kitchens.
Quartzite: Often confused with marble, it’s a natural stone with the look of marble but the durability closer to granite. Excellent for making a stunning statement.
Butcher Block: Adds warmth and a soft, natural feel. Ideal for islands or baking stations but requires regular oiling to maintain its surface.
Flooring:
The Foundation
Hardwood: Timeless and beloved in Minneapolis homes. It can be refinished multiple times, adding long-term value. Softer woods may show scratches from pets.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): A superstar for durability. 100% waterproof, incredibly scratch-resistant, and comfortable underfoot. An ideal choice for basements, kitchens, and homes with pets and kids.
Porcelain Tile: Unbeatable for water resistance and durability. Available in designs that mimic wood, stone, or concrete. Perfect for bathrooms and mudrooms.
Cabinetry: The Storage & Style
Plywood Box Construction: A hallmark of quality. More stable and durable than particleboard, it withstands Minnesota's humidity swings without warping.
Door Materials:
Solid Wood: Classic and durable, can be sanded and refinished over time.
MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): An excellent, stable substrate for painted finishes, as it won't expand and contract like wood.
Minneapolis-Specific Material Considerations
Our climate and housing stock demand special attention.
Humidity & Temperature Swings: Materials must withstand dry winters and humid summers. We avoid materials that are prone to expansion and contraction.
Hard Water: In areas with hard water, we steer clients toward matte or leathered finishes on fixtures and tile, which hide water spots better than high-gloss finishes.
Historic Home Character: For Minneapolis bungalows and Craftsman-style homes, we help source materials that honor the home's era, like shaker cabinets and subway tile, while providing modern performance.
The Laghmich Advantage: Your Guide to Confident Choices
Navigating material selection alone can lead to costly mistakes. When you work with us, you get:
Access to Trade-Only Suppliers: We connect you with higher-quality, more durable materials not available in big-box stores.
Curated Selections: We don't overwhelm you. We present a refined set of options we know will work for your project's style, budget, and functional needs.
Holistic Vision: We ensure your countertops, flooring, cabinetry, and backsplash work together to create a cohesive and stunning final result.
Make Confident Choices for Your Home
The right materials are the difference between a beautiful space and a beautiful, functional, and long-lasting one.
Don't navigate the world of material selection alone. Contact Laghmich today for a consultation. Let our expertise guide you to the perfect choices for your Minneapolis remodel.
Contact Laghmich Design & Remodeling today by phone or fill out our quick contact form for a free kitchen and bathroom remodeling consultation in Minneapolis, Edina, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Wayzata, Orono, and surrounding areas. Our experienced Minneapolis remodeling contractors will discuss your custom kitchen design or bathroom renovation project, explain our remodeling process, answer all your questions, and provide expert advice tailored to your home. We look forward to helping you bring your dream kitchen remodel or bathroom upgrade to life with quality craftsmanship and personalized service.