Kitchen Countertops

Because your kitchen countertop endures a lot of use, it should be above all practical, but that doesn't mean it can't be aesthetically pleasing as well. It's important to strike that perfect balance between style and function, which is why durability, visual appeal and ease of maintenance are among the top three guiding factors for choosing the right counter. As you remodel your kitchen, consider all the materials — everything from high-end marble countertops to granite countertops and butcher block countertops — and decide which one is right for your needs. Read on to learn more about your options.

Laminate Counters

Laminate surfaces are inexpensive, available in a range of options, and easy to maintain. The downside is that they are not heat tolerant, and edges and seams are generally visible. They also scratch and chip easily, which is not easily repaired.

Solid Surface Counters

With no visible seams, lots of patterns and colors available and a renewable quality that allows cuts and scratches to be blended out, solid surfaces (which are basically a plastic) have several advantages. The downsides are that they’re not heat resistant, are pricier and require professional installation.

Granite Countertops, Marble Countertops and Other Natural Stones

Granite, slate, soapstone, quartz, marble, limestone and gemstone all fall under this category. Long-lasting natural stone has an organic beauty and is more heat tolerant than other surfaces. It also expensive, and its porous quality requires sealing maintenance to prevent stains.

Engineered Stone Countertops

Engineered stone mimics natural stone, yet combines the properties of real stone with other ingredients to eradicate its porosity and maintenance requirements. This option, however, can be expensive depending on color choice.

Wood and Butcher Block Countertops

Great for a cutting surface, wood and butcher block options give the kitchen a warmer aesthetic than stone. Wood surfaces are susceptible to water damage if not properly sealed, and can dent and scratch easily.

Metal Counters

Metal surfaces, including stainless steel, copper or pewter, are heat tolerant, non-porous and sanitary. Like wood, though, they also can scratch and dent easily.

Concrete Countertops

Surfaces created from concrete or cement have the ability to incorporate inlaid decorative details or useful implements like trivets. However, they’re prone to hairline cracks and are extremely heavy.

Composite/Recycled Counters

Eco-friendly and similar to natural stone, recycled products are warmer to the touch than other options. Because they’re naturally made, they may fade over time.

Lavastone Counters

This unique application of volcanic lava hardened into a stone-like consistency is heat, scratch and stain resistant and nonporous. However, because it’s uncommon, it’s expensive and hard to come by.

Tile Counters

Tile surfaces come in an endless variety of styles and colors, are heat tolerant and durable, and can be very affordable depending on the chosen tile. Due to grout lines, they’re not very easy to clean.

Glass Counters

This hygienic, non-porous surface is simple to maintain, heat tolerant, stain resistant and available in many styles, colors and textures. They can be expensive, show fingerprints and water spots, and can crack easily.