Choosing the best material for kitchen countertops is an important decision that will impact your budget and overall design. To help you decide which option is best for your home, we’ve ranked the most popular countertop materials according to their durability, stain resistance, and heat and scratch resistance.
Granite is a popular natural stone that adds value and beauty to any home. It is durable and tough, able to withstand impact and abrasive damage.
Granite
Granite is a natural material with various colors and veining that can fit in with many design styles. Its durability is also a key factor for family kitchens. It resists scratches, stains and heat (useful for placing hot pans on), making it one of the best countertop options for busy homes.
Its density makes it stain-resistant, but homeowners should seal it once a year to prevent moisture from penetrating the stone and harboring bacteria. It is a sustainable choice as it requires minimal processing.
Solid surface countertops are engineered from acrylic and are a popular alternative to granite. They are affordable and come in various colors and appearances, including kitchen counters designs that duplicate marble. Viewing the slabs fabricated for your home before making your final decision is important.
Quartz
A mix of natural and artificial materials, quartz (often branded under names like Silestone and Ceasarstone) is one of the best countertop choices available. It can mimic the look of marble but is more durable, heat-resistant, stain-resistant and antibacterial.
Stainless steel is an increasingly popular choice, offering a sleek, industrial-inspired style. It’s also easy to clean, though it can show fingerprints and water spots more readily than other materials.
Soapstone counters are another natural option that’s naturally bacteria-resistant and stain-resistant. However, it can darken over time and requires regular maintenance with mineral oil.https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2807.303210444053!2d-122.85641499999998!3d45.282094300000004!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x186c133bee4527c5!2sKitchens%20by%20Rupp-Division%20of%20Rupp%20Family%20Builders%20Inc.!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1657651012972!5m2!1sen!2sus
Marble
If you’re looking for a luxurious kitchen countertop, marble is the choice. This natural material is available in various rich colors, each with unique veining. Its beauty is timeless, and it can elevate any kitchen design scheme.
Solid surface material—often marketed under brand names like Silestone, Cosentino, or Quartzite—is another popular choice for kitchen countertops. It is nonporous, hygienic, and scratch- and stain-resistant, resistant to high temperatures (useful with hot pans).
Soapstone is another durable natural option. A grayish stone with a soft feel, it oxidizes over time, developing a weathered patina that adds charm. It’s also less expensive than marble. However, using a cutting board when cooking is a good idea, as the stone can scratch easily.
Laminate
Choosing the right material for your kitchen countertops is a lifelong investment that will boost your home’s resale value. You’ll also want a countertop that is durable, easy to clean and matches your design aesthetic.
Laminate counters are made from resin layers, kraft paper and decorative printed sheets. This allows them to mimic the look of wood, stone, metal and other popular materials for cabinets that kitchen cabinet installers near you may recommend. Companies offer an array of designs, from standard wood grain and stone patterns to abstracts and texture prints.
Nonporous engineered stone quartz is a top choice for many homeowners, as it resists staining and comes in various colors and patterns. It’s often a more affordable option than granite and offers similar durability.
Concrete
Countertops are one of the most visible and essential elements in any kitchen, so selecting a material that will be functional and aesthetically pleasing for your lifestyle is important. Concrete countertops are popular for homeowners who prefer a modern aesthetic and durable design. This customizable material can be pigmented or dyed to match your kitchen’s color scheme and is also available in a range of textures to suit your desired style.
Engineered stone quartz, a nonporous surface resistant to staining and heat damage, is another highly durable option.
