Kitchen Countertops 101: Choosing a Surface Material
Explore the pros and cons of 11 kitchen countertop materials. The options may surprise you
Houzz Contributor. Fresh out of journalism school, I fell into decorating media and immediately discovered a new passion. An Atlanta native, I spent several years as an editor for Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles magazine before making the leap to national publications and websites such as Houzz, Better Homes and Gardens and Southern Accents. I live in Birmingham, Alabama, with my husband and son, who’ve gotten used to coming home and finding the furniture rearranged. When I'm not dragging case goods across the floor, I enjoy good food and wine, college football, music of all kinds, and traveling.
Houzz Contributor. Fresh out of journalism school, I fell into decorating... More »
Whether you're remodeling a kitchen, building one from scratch or just ready to give yours a face-lift, countertops are a central part of the look. And you may be daunted by the wealth of options on the market; countertop surfaces range from well-known butcher block to less common materials such as glass and terrazzo. We've chosen 11 of the most popular to get you started. Read on to find the one that's right for you.
Related: Installing a Countertop, From Start to Finish
Related: Installing a Countertop, From Start to Finish
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Granite
Pros: Granite's beautiful mottling and the host of colors and patterns found in nature make each piece one of a kind. It stands up well to splashes, knife nicks, heat and other wear and tear.
Cons: Like most stone, granite must be sealed every so often to avoid stains. And its heaviness means you'll need very sturdy cabinet boxes to support the weight.
Cost: $35 to $100 per square foot, installed
Pros: Granite's beautiful mottling and the host of colors and patterns found in nature make each piece one of a kind. It stands up well to splashes, knife nicks, heat and other wear and tear.
Cons: Like most stone, granite must be sealed every so often to avoid stains. And its heaviness means you'll need very sturdy cabinet boxes to support the weight.
Cost: $35 to $100 per square foot, installed
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Solid Surfacing
Made primarily from acrylic and polyester, solid surfacing first was sold under the brand name Corian, which is often (erroneously) used as a generic term for it. Today, it's made by a host of manufacturers and has enjoyed steady popularity over the years.
Pros: Because solid surfacing is nonporous, it's virtually maintenance free — no sealing or special cleaning required. Although it can be susceptible to scratches and burns, those are easy to sand out. Color and pattern options are extensive, and because you're not trying for the look of a natural material, you can experiment with vibrant hues such as turquoise or tomato red. Seamless installation means there are no cracks to trap dirt and debris.
Cons: Solid surfacing can have a patently artificial look and feel, yet can approach the price of natural stone. As mentioned above, it doesn't stand up to hot pans or sharp knives as well as other materials.
Cost: $35 to $100 per square foot, installed
More about solid surface kitchen countertops
Made primarily from acrylic and polyester, solid surfacing first was sold under the brand name Corian, which is often (erroneously) used as a generic term for it. Today, it's made by a host of manufacturers and has enjoyed steady popularity over the years.
Pros: Because solid surfacing is nonporous, it's virtually maintenance free — no sealing or special cleaning required. Although it can be susceptible to scratches and burns, those are easy to sand out. Color and pattern options are extensive, and because you're not trying for the look of a natural material, you can experiment with vibrant hues such as turquoise or tomato red. Seamless installation means there are no cracks to trap dirt and debris.
Cons: Solid surfacing can have a patently artificial look and feel, yet can approach the price of natural stone. As mentioned above, it doesn't stand up to hot pans or sharp knives as well as other materials.
Cost: $35 to $100 per square foot, installed
More about solid surface kitchen countertops
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| Quartz Surfacing Crafted of resin and quartz chips tinted with color, quartz surfacing (also called engineered quartz or engineered stone) is a good compromise between the beauty of stone and the easy care of solid surfacing. Pros: Quartz surfacing has the same advantages as solid surfacing with regard to maintenance. As an engineered product, it's available in a far greater range of colors and patterns than natural stone. Cons: This material doesn't have the natural variegation of granite, so it may be evident that it's an engineered product. It's relatively pricey, although its durability can make it a worthwhile investment. Cost: $40 to $90 per square foot, installed |
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Marble
Is there anything that looks and feels more glamorous than a marble countertop? Peerless in terms of its luminescence and distinctive veining, it's an ultratraditional choice.
Pros: Nothing beats marble for sheer elegance. It stands up to heat well, and because it remains perennially cool, it's a traditional choice for pastry and baking stations (read: Dough won't get too soft).
Cons: Marble is very susceptible to stains, even with sealing. For that reason, it's not often used throughout an entire kitchen — most homeowners limit it to one or two small areas. It can also scratch and chip.
Cost: $40 to $100 per square foot, installed
Is there anything that looks and feels more glamorous than a marble countertop? Peerless in terms of its luminescence and distinctive veining, it's an ultratraditional choice.
Pros: Nothing beats marble for sheer elegance. It stands up to heat well, and because it remains perennially cool, it's a traditional choice for pastry and baking stations (read: Dough won't get too soft).
Cons: Marble is very susceptible to stains, even with sealing. For that reason, it's not often used throughout an entire kitchen — most homeowners limit it to one or two small areas. It can also scratch and chip.
Cost: $40 to $100 per square foot, installed
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by Norberry Tile
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| Tile Modular and inexpensive, ceramic and porcelain tile offers nearly limitless options for colors and designs. Tile works with almost any kitchen style, from country to majestic Old World. Pros: It holds its own against heat and sharp blades, and resists stains. If one or two tiles chip or crack, they're fairly easy to replace. Cons: Tile's uneven surface can make it difficult to balance a cutting board or roll out a pie crust. Unsealed grout is prone to staining; standing moisture can damage it and contribute to bacterial growth. Cost: $10 to $80 per square foot, installed |
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Laminate
Made of paper blended with resins and fused to particle board, laminate has been a kitchen mainstay for decades. In the past, it hasn't always had a reputation as stylish, but that's changing: The latest designs on the market mimic stone, butcher block and other pricier surfaces.
Pros: Laminate is one of the most affordable countertop materials, so it's a good choice if your budget is tight. It's low maintenance and easy to clean. Its light weight doesn't require the support of a thick cabinet base.
Cons: Laminate is prone to scratching, burns and, in some cases, staining. With wear and moisture exposure, the layers can peel. Because of the raw particle board core, you can't use laminate with undermount sinks, and it's also difficult to repair if it gets damaged.
Cost: $10 to $30 per square foot, installed
Made of paper blended with resins and fused to particle board, laminate has been a kitchen mainstay for decades. In the past, it hasn't always had a reputation as stylish, but that's changing: The latest designs on the market mimic stone, butcher block and other pricier surfaces.
Pros: Laminate is one of the most affordable countertop materials, so it's a good choice if your budget is tight. It's low maintenance and easy to clean. Its light weight doesn't require the support of a thick cabinet base.
Cons: Laminate is prone to scratching, burns and, in some cases, staining. With wear and moisture exposure, the layers can peel. Because of the raw particle board core, you can't use laminate with undermount sinks, and it's also difficult to repair if it gets damaged.
Cost: $10 to $30 per square foot, installed
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by Frank Valdes
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| Soapstone Although it's in no danger of overtaking granite, soapstone has come into its own as a countertop material. It offers subtle, nuanced beauty yet feels humbler than granite or marble. Pros: Soapstone has a natural softness and depth that fits very well with older and cottage-style homes. Although it usually starts out light to medium gray, it darkens with time. (Most people enjoy the acquired patina, but you may consider this a con.) Cons: Soapstone needs polishing with oil to keep it in top shape. It can crack over time, and it can't handle knife scratches and nicks as well as some other types of stone. The natural roughness of its surface can scuff glassware and china. Cost: $70 to $100 per square foot, installed More about soapstone kitchen counters |
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Stainless Steel
Once found mostly in commercial kitchens, stainless steel has slipped into vogue within the past two decades. These countertops are custom made to fit your kitchen, so you're guaranteed a tailored look.
Pros: There's a reason stainless steel is used in restaurants and other high-traffic kitchens: It's nearly indestructible, and it resists heat and bacteria. It also provides a very distinctive look that feels appropriate in contemporary and industrial-style kitchens.
Cons: Fingerprints show and must be wiped off frequently, and stainless steel can also dent. It can be loud as pots, pans and dishware clang against the surface. Chemicals can affect its color and cause unwanted etching. Stainless steel is extremely expensive due to the custom fabrication.
Cost: $65 to $125 per square foot, installed
Once found mostly in commercial kitchens, stainless steel has slipped into vogue within the past two decades. These countertops are custom made to fit your kitchen, so you're guaranteed a tailored look.
Pros: There's a reason stainless steel is used in restaurants and other high-traffic kitchens: It's nearly indestructible, and it resists heat and bacteria. It also provides a very distinctive look that feels appropriate in contemporary and industrial-style kitchens.
Cons: Fingerprints show and must be wiped off frequently, and stainless steel can also dent. It can be loud as pots, pans and dishware clang against the surface. Chemicals can affect its color and cause unwanted etching. Stainless steel is extremely expensive due to the custom fabrication.
Cost: $65 to $125 per square foot, installed
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Concrete
Think concrete is just for floors? Think again. Slightly edgier than other materials, concrete countertops have an industrial chic that fits right into a loft or adds interest to an otherwise traditional space.
Pros: Concrete is extremely versatile: It can be cast in any shape and custom tinted any shade you wish. You easily can add unique inlays, such as glass fragments, rocks and shells. Concrete stands up well to heavy use, although it isn't as heat resistant as some other surfaces.
Cons: Because it's porous, concrete will stain without frequent sealing. With time and settling, small cracks can develop. Concrete is extremely heavy and will need strong support beneath. Like stainless steel, its custom creation ups the price tag.
Cost: $75 to $125 per square foot, installed
Think concrete is just for floors? Think again. Slightly edgier than other materials, concrete countertops have an industrial chic that fits right into a loft or adds interest to an otherwise traditional space.
Pros: Concrete is extremely versatile: It can be cast in any shape and custom tinted any shade you wish. You easily can add unique inlays, such as glass fragments, rocks and shells. Concrete stands up well to heavy use, although it isn't as heat resistant as some other surfaces.
Cons: Because it's porous, concrete will stain without frequent sealing. With time and settling, small cracks can develop. Concrete is extremely heavy and will need strong support beneath. Like stainless steel, its custom creation ups the price tag.
Cost: $75 to $125 per square foot, installed
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by Kenny Grono
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| Butcher Block Butcher block has a classic appeal and always looks fresh. It's especially fitting for traditional, country and cottage-style kitchens. Pros: Many homeowners like butcher block's warm, natural appearance and variegated wood tones. Although knives scratch it, many people like the shopworn look it develops — after all, it's what chopping blocks have been made of for years. But you can also sand scratches down with ease. Cons: Wood swells and contracts with moisture exposure, and butcher block is no exception. It harbors bacteria and needs frequent disinfecting. Oiling is a must to fill in scratches and protect the surface. Cost: $35 to $70 per square foot, installed |
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Paper Composite
Paper countertops? You read it right. Created from paper fibers mixed with resin, this surface is ecofriendly and a whole lot more durable than it sounds.
Pros: Paper composite evokes the look of solid surfacing or laminate but with a warmer sensibility. It's surprisingly hardy and can withstand heat and water admirably. It's also a great deal lighter than natural stone or concrete.
Cons: The material isn't scratchproof and is susceptible to chemical damage. It needs an occasional rubdown with mineral oil, and even sanding, to refresh it. Although it sounds as though it would be a lower-budget option, it isn't (unless you install it yourself).
Cost: $85 to $125 per square foot, installed
Tell us: Do you have a countertop you love? Please share a photo below!
More: How to Remodel Your Kitchen
10 Great Alternatives to Granite Counters
Using White Marble: Hot Debate Over a Classic Beauty
Paper countertops? You read it right. Created from paper fibers mixed with resin, this surface is ecofriendly and a whole lot more durable than it sounds.
Pros: Paper composite evokes the look of solid surfacing or laminate but with a warmer sensibility. It's surprisingly hardy and can withstand heat and water admirably. It's also a great deal lighter than natural stone or concrete.
Cons: The material isn't scratchproof and is susceptible to chemical damage. It needs an occasional rubdown with mineral oil, and even sanding, to refresh it. Although it sounds as though it would be a lower-budget option, it isn't (unless you install it yourself).
Cost: $85 to $125 per square foot, installed
Tell us: Do you have a countertop you love? Please share a photo below!
More: How to Remodel Your Kitchen
10 Great Alternatives to Granite Counters
Using White Marble: Hot Debate Over a Classic Beauty
Ideabook updated on Sept. 17, 2012.
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One con to add is that it comes in an extremely limited range of colors. They almost all look light gray when first installed, but once they are oiled or waxed the color of the stone ranges from almost black to medium gray to a dark blue-green, most with beautiful creamy veining.
Also, you mention that marble is susceptible to stains, but stains in marble can be prevented with a good sealer. The main issue with marble is etching from coming in contact with acids, which is not preventable with sealing. Also, marble does not scratch or chip any more than many of the other surfaces you mention.
Stainless steel fabrication does not have to be "extremely expensive". In the Northeast anyway, where I priced it from experienced fabricators, it was comparable to Low-mid range granite in pricing. It can also be DIY'd.
For Quartz surfaces, the "pro" equated it with the solid surface of Corian. But it's so much more durable than Corian -- it would be better compared to granite. It resists heat, stains and knives all equally as well as granite, plus it has the added benefit of never needing to be sealed.
Tile has come such a long way from the old style bumpy 4" x 4". There are large format through-body porcelain tiles -- some as large as 24" x 48" -- so you can cover a counter in a perfectly flat surface that is heat, stain and knife resistant. Very few grout lines are needed and with epoxy or urethane grout it's no longer a hassle to keep them clean. Since the color goes all the way through the tile, you can also have it cut to use an undermount sink.
Uh ... NO! A study done by a bacteriologist who was testing anti-bacterial cutting board materials used wood cutting boards for the "control" showed - to his surprise - that wood had a natural disinfectant properties.
Writing as a microbiologist: ALL COOKING SURFACES NEED FREQUENT CLEANING. I don';t care what they are, wash it!
The comment about the stone needing to be sealed and that being a "con" is misleading. The sealer sprays on and takes only minutes twice a year.
It is pricey, up there with the exotic granites. But no maintenance.
1) Porous. We have developed a system that decreases the porosity of the concrete to near zero, and never requires resealing. It never yellows or peels since it is permanently INSIDE the concrete matrix. Unlike many of the synthetic quartz products (which are made up of plastic) and are susceptible to UV damage if outdoors or near a window, ours will not yellow with time.
2) Weight. They are 18lbs per sq ft at 1.5" thickness...this is roughly the same or less than 3cm granites, and is no issue for well made cabinets. Plus we install them, so I do not see why this is even worth mentioning.
3) Heat resistance. This is not an issue for well made concrete that does not have an epoxy or poly-whatever type coating.
4) Cracks. Concrete is not susceptible to cracking if it is poured and cured professionally. We never have cracks "develop over time" as you suggest.
If you do not adhere to a strict water to cement ratio, cracks could result.
We at Downing Designs have been producing beautiful concrete and glass here for 13 years.
I think you have missed on one key design trend...THICK Countertops.
Concrete may be poured with 3"-7" facades giving the appearance of thicker slabs...without the need for gluing pieces together. This creates a very strong design element. It also cannot fail as laminated glue joints will over time.
Glass can also be thermally fused to create thick slabs.
Perhaps when you prepping to update your article, you can give us a call to discuss these items in more detail.
Jeff Downing
Just fyi -- It is a popular opinion, but actually a myth that butcher block countertops harbor bacteria. They are a great place to prepare food and are often found in commercial kitchens which are subject to strict regulations about food safety. Here is a scientific article backing this up if someone is in the mood to read the actual data. http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?fbid=409148622453778&set=a.239243956110913.50329.223178871050755&type=1&theater
I think it's revolutionary and right on the budget as well. By the way, I also love the stainless steel countertops.