It is available in a larger range of colors than granite and has a nonporous surface that resists both scratching and staining. Some types are convincing copies of natural marble, with similar veining. Unlike natural stone, engineered quartz requires no annual sealing. Similar technology is now being used in so-called glass countertops, which consist of particles of recycled glass blended with resins and shaped into countertop slabs.
Consumers keen on being on the cutting edge may want to consider glass as well as quartz countertops. Solid-surface material , sold under brands including Avonite, Corian , and Swanstone, is a man-made material consisting of a blend of acrylic particles and resins that are pressed into sheets and other shapes. Solid-surface countertops and sinks have now been around for nearly 50 years, but at the time of introduction, they were regarded as space-age alternatives to natural stone, which they sought to mimic.
Once regarded as premium, luxury countertops, solid-surface material is now considered somewhat mid-tier, but it is still an excellent choice for mid-range kitchens. It can also be a good material in high-end kitchens with a lot of countertop space that would be prohibitively expensive to cover with granite or quartz.
Ceramic tile is durable and easy to clean, and it is considerably less expensive than natural stone, quartz, or solid-surface countertops, especially for DIYers willing to do their own work. Recent innovations in porcelain tiles offer many more design options than ever before, including tiles that look like wood, marble, or even leather or cork. Ceramic and porcelain tiles offer more design options than nearly any other countertop material. Laminate counters bear trademarks such as Formica, Nevamar, and Wilsonart.
The laminates are plastic-coated synthetics with a smooth surface that's easy to clean. Countertops are made by bonding the laminate sheets to a particleboard MDF core. Laminate countertops can be purchased as pre-formed segments called "post-form countertops" , or custom-fabricated to specifications, either on-site or in a fabrication shop. Laminates are especially popular in retro designs, particularly midcentury modern kitchens. Wood countertops offer a beautiful warm look and are available in a wide range of colors and finishes.
Hardwoods such as maple and oak are the species most often used as countertop woods. For a really contemporary and industrial look for your kitchen, stainless steel is a good choice.
Stainless steel countertops are heat-resistant and durable. Because they're constructed to your specifications, you can have a seamless countertop. If you have countertops in unusual shapes, or if you want a truly unique kitchen, concrete may be a good choice for your countertops. Due to their heavy weight, concrete countertops are usually cast in forms right in your kitchen.
These are not the same kind of concrete slabs used in sidewalks, but highly polished concrete slabs that may even be textured or acid-stained to produce colors.
Although concrete can be subject to cracking, new treatments can reduce this tendency. The porousness of concrete can be reduced with additives. Actively scan device characteristics for identification. Use precise geolocation data. Here are the details. In our countertop tests , performance varied from one material to the next, but there was little difference among competing brands of each type, so be sure to shop around for the best deal on your countertop material of choice.
For the pros and cons of each type, see the numbered entries below. Quartz Pros: It mimics the look of stone but requires less maintenance. Hot pots, serrated knives, abrasive pads, and most stains were no match for quartz, which is a combination of mineral, color, and resin.
It comes in vibrant colors in addition to patterns that look like granite and marble. Rounded edges help. Granite Pros: Each slab of this natural material is unique; rare colors and veining cost more. Polished and matte finishes resisted most stains when properly sealed, so pick the look you prefer. Cons: Periodic resealing is needed to fend off stains. Like quartz, edges and corners can chip and must be professionally repaired.
Small scratches can be repaired by sanding finely and applying mineral oil. Limestone pictured and marble are classic materials. Limestone also has a natural-stone look without heavy veining or graining, and it resists heat. And, sure, laminate will be out of place in a high-end kitchen. However, it is a good option for budget-conscious shoppers, rental properties, house flips or second kitchens. There may be no kitchen countertop material more luxurious than marble, a natural stone that complements many high-end kitchens.
Available in hues including whites, greys and even greens, marble countertops have long been appreciated by bakers for the naturally low temperature of the surface.
Homeowners devoted to the idea of marble may find it best to use it for a portion of the countertop while using a more durable material in high-use spots. A unique option for kitchens ranging from farmhouse style to more industrially inspired, poured concrete countertops have gained popularity in recent years. Concrete easily allows for tinting and decorative textures.
Skilled professional installers can even incorporate pieces of tile or glass for a truly one-of-kind countertop. This classic countertop material is making a comeback in a big way. Available in a variety of woods and finishes, butcher block counters lend warmth to kitchen design. Butcher block counters are also highly practical: If unsealed and unoiled, these counters are essentially built-in cutting boards. Although this can contribute to quick signs of wear, butcher block can be easily sanded.
Reduce the rate of wear by sealing the wood, using hot pads and cleaning up spills as soon as possible. Butcher block is also great for DIY-ers—especially as big box home improvement stores now commonly stock ready-made butcher block counters—making it a wallet-friendly option. If you value color and unique design, tile presents the most options. From elaborate hand-painted tiles to mass-produced porcelain tiles, your imagination is the limit with tile kitchen countertops.
Quartz or granite tiles are available at a lower cost than full-sized slabs. Just note that the range in style and quality is linked to a range in the overall cost of tile countertops. With some basic knowledge, DIY installation is possible. Tile countertops boast easy maintenance and decent durability. Cracking is the biggest hazard, so take care not to slam down heavy pots or pans.
The grout lines can also be a nuisance to clean, although opting for a darker grout color can ease this pain. This lesser-known natural stone is comparable to marble in style and superior in durability. Available in gray or black hues with beautiful veining, soapstone offers a stunning contrast to light cabinets.
However, the smooth, soap-like feel of soapstone also makes it prone to scratching. But unlike granite that looks best unblemished, scratches on soapstone may actually lend to the patina. Although soap and water are fine for cleaning, soapstone counters should be oiled semi-regularly about once every few months.
The large, natural slabs of stone also warrant a higher cost. Solid-surface material is a great option if you like the look of stone, but not the cost of stone. Made with acrylic and resin, these manufactured countertops can be completely customized to the layout of your kitchen—meaning no unsightly seams.
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