The '80s Countertop Material Trend That's Making Your Home Harder To Sell

Some countertop materials, like granite and marble, are considered classics by many that never go out of fashion. On the other hand, there are several outdated countertops that ought to be replaced. Throughout the '80s, tile countertops were a popular trend, but now experts like Sam Weibe of the Decor Cabinet Company suggest they could be a "red flag for an outdated kitchen," and they may be making your home harder to sell. Let's look at why they were the go-to choice for a decade and why they may now reduce your chances of finding a buyer for your property.

Tile countertops were popular in the '80s for several reasons. They were quite easy to install, making them a budget-friendly option. The tiles came in an almost endless range of colors, providing terrific design freedom. Ceramic tiles are heat-resistant, so people could take pans straight from the stove without fear of marking them. Unlike some countertop materials, they're scratch-resistant, too.

There are two main problems: If the tiles were poorly installed, the surface would be uneven, but by far the biggest drawback is the grout. It is a magnet for dirt and stains. Back in the '80s, homeowners would regularly resort to scrubbing brushes and bleach to try to keep it clean. Potential buyers are used to seeing pristine countertops when they arrive for a tour. It's pretty obvious that anything else would make your home a tough sell.

Tile countertops are a divisive issue, and some designers think they need to go. In an interview with Homes & Gardens Glenn Gissler points out the hygiene issue, saying, "bacteria will thrive." That's not what you want where food is prepared. Care is needed when choosing tile cleaning products, as some contain toxic chemicals. There's also concern whether the safe products are aggressive enough to do a thorough job. For some, tile countertops are not worth the hassle – a fashion that's had its time.

So, should you invest in tiled countertops? If you just moved into a new home and you think it's exactly what your kitchen or bathroom needs, then why not? However, if you're refurbishing with a plan to sell, you could get a tile lover, but you also may get a hater. So, you'll probably want to choose a countertop material that doesn't risk turning off potential buyers.