The 10 Best Kitchen Countertops (2022 Review & Guide)
- 1. Granite Granite has long been one of the most popular kitchen countertop materials. ...
- 2. Soapstone Soapstone is a natural stone that is usually dark gray in color and has a silky smooth finish. ...
- 3. Marble Marble is also a popular choice for countertops among homeowners. ...
- 4. Quartz (Engineered Stone) Quartz is becoming popular in the market because of its durability and low maintenance. ...
Full Answer
How to choose the best countertops for your kitchen?
How to Choose the Best Countertops For Your Kitchen Remodel
- Know the Materials. You’ll first want to learn about some of the most popular countertop materials in order to make the most informed choice.
- Granite. Granite, at one time, was one of the most popular kitchen countertops on the market. ...
- Laminate. ...
- Quartz. ...
- Marble. ...
- Concrete. ...
- Making Your Choice. ...
- Maintenance. ...
- Budget. ...
- Atmosphere. ...
What is the most durable kitchen countertop?
What is the most durable type of countertop? Quartz is the most durable kitchen countertop. It is nearly indestructible to regular kitchen use, is not susceptible to knife cuts, will not chip or crack, and is very stain resistant.
How to choose the best countertop?
Solid Surface Countertops
- Benefits. When it comes to your kitchen or bathroom, you can’t go wrong with a solid surface countertop.
- Considerations. Making the right choice means knowing all the details. ...
- Maintenance. Solid surfaces are man made and nonporous, making them hygienic and easy to clean. ...
Where to buy cheap countertops?
Tips for finding cheap options:
- Look for overstocked or oversized chipped slabs.
- Settle for a slightly off color or plainer option to stay on the low end.
- Big box stores, countertop specialty shops and even some online retailers offer discounts and closeouts.
- A professional installer can easily reshape these unwanted parts to fit your kitchen or bath.
What is the most durable countertop material for kitchens?
Quartz takes first place in terms of durability. Made of crushed quartz stone mixed with polymers and resin, this artificially engineered stone countertop is an extremely durable surface that resembles natural stone.
Which type of countertop is best for kitchen?
Granite has been the number one kitchen countertop option for homeowners for several years. While it has more competition than in the past, granite remains to be a top choice among homeowners because of its natural composition, exquisite looks, and designs that cannot be replicated.
What is the best countertop for your money?
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, quartz countertops are the best to go for when looking for an affordable countertop material that will give you a long service.
What is the most popular kitchen countertop for 2022?
The most popular and trending countertop for 2022 is a marble countertop. Closely trailing behind is concrete countertops and butcher block countertops. What countertop edge is in style 2022? Waterfall edge countertops have been on the come-up for years now.
Is quartz or granite better?
Quartz is actually harder than granite and thus, more durable. In fact, quartz is nearly indestructible, and because it isn't porous like granite, it's easy to keep your countertops relatively bacteria-free. Be careful with cooking pans though: Quartz can be damaged by excessive heat, so use heating pads at all times.
Which is cheaper granite or quartz?
Quartz is generally less expensive. But with the exception of the cheapest granite, quartz is generally less expensive—$70 to $100 per square foot installed compared with granite's price range of $60 to $270 per square foot installed.
What countertop material is easiest to maintain?
Man-made materials like laminate or stainless steel countertops rank among the easiest countertops to maintain in the short term, as they may simply require wiping down with mild dish soap and warm water.
What is the most stain resistant countertop?
QuartzQuartz is the most stain resistant material because it is engineered with ground-up natural stone and resin. This creates a non-porous material that is highly stain resistant. Quartz is also easy to maintain as no sealer is required.
What is the cheapest most durable countertop?
Laminate Countertops Generally the most affordable countertop material available, laminate is made from layers of plastic bonded to particleboard to form a solid surface. Preformed counters with a built-in backsplash come in a limited range of colors and patterns.
What is the new look for kitchens in 2022?
Greens and blues will continue to dominate home design in 2022, and the kitchen is no exception. But according to the NKBA, white and wood tones will also be popular. Together, these hues are the foundation for today's popular organic style.
What countertop edge is in Style 2022?
This year, it seems that the countertop edges that are rounded will be the edge of choice. If you decide that you want to have a rounded countertop edge, here are some choices that will work well: Round. Full bullnose.
Is quartz or granite more popular?
Today, Quartz is overtaking Granite as the number one, most desirable countertop material on the market.
What is the most stain resistant countertop?
QuartzQuartz is the most stain resistant material because it is engineered with ground-up natural stone and resin. This creates a non-porous material that is highly stain resistant. Quartz is also easy to maintain as no sealer is required.
What is the cheapest most durable countertop?
Laminate Countertops Generally the most affordable countertop material available, laminate is made from layers of plastic bonded to particleboard to form a solid surface. Preformed counters with a built-in backsplash come in a limited range of colors and patterns.
Which is more expensive granite or quartz countertops?
Quartz and granite countertops are priced similarly per square foot, with granite counters having the wider variation in price. Granite can be more expensive than quartz at times, based on the availability of a color and pattern. Sometimes quartz is more expensive due to the treatments it receives during manufacturing.
How do I choose a countertop?
There's no one countertop that's ideal for every home, so the best material for your kitchen will depend on several factors: color, overall appearance, durability, stain- and scratch-resistance, and of course, price.
What are the pros and cons of 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.
How much does it cost to replace a laminate countertop?
Happily, there are lots of options in a wide range of prices. A new laminate countertop can cost as little as $5 per square foot. Or you could easily spend 10 times that on quartz, granite, or recycled glass.
What are the pros and cons of glass counters?
Pros: Large shards give it a fun, contemporary look; finely ground glass makes it less busy. Most glass counters we tested resisted stains, cuts, scratches, and heat.
Is soapstone a good material?
Pros: Soapstone isn’t as common as granite, and it’s superb at resisting heat damage. 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.
Can you cut laminate on a cutting board?
Cons: Cutting directly on it easily and permanently damages laminate, so use a cutting board.
Does varnishing a wood floor make a difference?
Pros: It adds warmth and is easy to install and repair, but the finish makes a difference. Varnish improved stain resistance, but penetrating oils diminished it.
Can corners chip?
Cons: Edges and corners can chip, and you’ll need a pro to repair them. Rounded edges help.
How much does laminate cost?
Laminate countertops range in price from $15 to $40 per square foot, installed.
What is the trendiest countertop material?
Stainless Steel: The Trendy Option. Second only to concrete as the most trendy countertop material, stainless steel 's popularity has waxed and waned over the years. Originally a material found only in commercial kitchens, stainless steel has recently become common in high-end residential kitchens.
What is a solid surface countertop?
Solid surface countertops are made from synthetic acrylic, epoxy, and polyester materials bonded together in formulations aimed at mimicking the look of natural stone. When solid-surface material was introduced in the late 1960s by Dupont, it was regarded as a high-end countertop material.
How much does a solid surface countertop cost?
Costs for solid-surface countertops range from $35 to $85 per square foot, installed.
Which countertop is best for resisting burns?
Quartz countertops are among the best at resisting burns and scorching.
What is reclaimed wood countertop?
Reclaimed wood countertops are slabs made from hardwoods recycled from other uses, such as commercial bowling alleys, barns, or residential flooring. For homeowners concerned about the environment, reclaimed wood offers obvious appeal.
What is the rating of zinc?
Zinc earns an overall rating of 2.8 out of 5.0, placing in the lower half of countertop materials. Still, in kitchens with a certain period decor, zinc can be a conversation starter.
How to choose a countertop for a kitchen?
Choosing the perfect countertop for your kitchen isn't as easy as it may seem. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to pick just one. Before starting, you'll want to consider your remodel budget and cooking style. Your budget will play a huge role in your decision, as some countertop materials are pricier than others. Not to mention, any special cuts or added thickness will also run up your tab.
What is soapstone made of?
Soapstone comes from a metamorphic rock composed of talc, quartz, and other minerals. The colors of soapstone available are more limited than other countertop materials. Most slabs come in a gray undertone, and darken as time progresses.
How much does soapstone cost?
Soapstone can cost you anywhere from $55 to $70 per square foot of material. This is actually one of the more affordable options available if you want a countertop made up of natural stone. However, keep in mind that the exact cost can fluctuate depending on the thickness and grade of the stone.
What color is soapstone?
Most slabs come in a gray undertone, and darken as time progresses. If gray is not your color, soapstone occasionally comes in a blue or green undertone as well. Similar to granite, soapstone is very unique within its family.
How much does a solid surface countertop cost?
Polyester is a less expensive option, but acrylic is higher quality. These kinds of countertops can range anywhere from $30 to $80 on average per square foot. As mentioned, acrylic solid-surfaces are much more expensive than polyester.
How much does it cost to recycle a countertop?
The cost of most recycled countertops can range from $50 to $80 per square foot of material. As always, certain add ons can raise the price. If you want a particular color or style, it's likely the cost will get much more expensive. If your countertop gets damaged, recycled material can be costly to repair.
Which countertop is the easiest to maintain?
Quartz is the easiest countertop to maintain. The material will give you the least amount of hassle as time progresses. Not to mention, quartz is also very resistant to all sorts of damage, scratches, and stains.
What is the best countertop material for outdoor use?
Tile, concrete, and granite are some of your options. Stay away from manufactured countertop materials like quartz (although CaesarStone just came out with a quartz line called Solaris that is strictly for outdoor use) and Corian since they’re not created to resist fading when subjected to UV rays.
Why is a countertop important in a kitchen?
It is where all the action takes place. But more than that, the countertop is the foundation of kitchen décor when doing a kitchen renovation. It bares the burden of setting the tone and feel of the space. Seeing its importance in kitchen décor, it matters a lot what material, finish and design you choose for your countertop.
What is quartz countertop?
Materials like quartz are being designed to resemble slabs of natural stone, like granite & marble. This involves creating veins in interesting patterns swirled into the countertop slabs. This added boost to your creative personality in your kitchen will wow. Want something even more realistic; then no need for a polished piece–honed and leathered finishes have the durability needed for the kitchen but have a drastically different look in the space.
What is the trend for kitchen sinks in 2021?
2021 is bringing different finishing’s, sizes, and styles to kitchen sinks and we’re super excited about it.This year we’re seeing matte black sinks and sink fixtures as well as gold and brass colors take over. These finishes stray away from your typical silver metal sinks. These are also popular faucet color choices foe 2021 bathroom trends!
What is a countertop made of?
Environmental-friendly countertop made of broken glass. Wanting to choose sustainable materials for the kitchen not only makes you feel good about your decisions and reduces your carbon footprint, but it also is getting easier to find options. Made up of a combination of 75% recycled glass and white cement.
What is the best material for outdoor counter tops?
There are almost as numerous material selections for outdoor counters as there are for indoor ones. Tile, concrete, and granite are some of your options.
What is leather finish?
Leathered finish is a newer style of treatment that has become more popular in recent years. It has a soft sheen, that is less glossy from a polished slab, and to the touch has a different feel. The leather finish retains the stone’s natural color giving it a more sophisticated look than honed. It also hides fingerprints and water spots remarkable well, which is very appealing to many.
What is soapstone used for?
It has seen a recent resurgence as an alternative to granite. Soapstone is often seen in historic homes but is also used in modern homes as both a countertop and sink material.
What is laminate counter top?
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.
What is glass countertop?
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.
What is quartz stone?
Quartz (Engineered Stone) The Spruce / Kevin Norris. The countertop material known as "quartz" is actually an engineered stone product that contains as much as 93 percent quartz particles and other minerals, shaped into slabs and bound with resins. These are not solid quartz slabs produced by quarrying.
What is the best countertop material for a kitchen?
One Kind Design. 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.
What is the best wood for countertops?
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.
What are the different types of countertops?
They include granite, marble, quartz, and more. Each material has its positive and negative aspects. For instance, some are very strong while others can be scratched or marred. And some materials cost a lot more than others .
What is quartz countertop?
Quartz countertops (which may be known by brand names such as Caesarstone) are known for having excellent resale value when you’re looking to sell your home, says Abigail Guignard, owner of Neoesque Designs of New York, NY.
What is granite countertop made of?
Made from a naturally occurring composite of quartz, mica, and feldspar, each granite countertop is unique with its materials coming straight from nature.
What is a butcher block countertop?
Pros: Butcher block countertops are another name for thick, fancy wood. If you’re looking to green your living space, using a renewable resource for your counters may be a hit. Wood is sustainable, and it offers a rustic, homey feel. Cons: Wood requires high maintenance.
What is granite made of?
Made from a naturally occurring composite of quartz, mica, and feldspar, each granite countertop is unique with its materials coming straight from nature. Another bonus? These countertops are hard and resistant to scratches.
How much does laminate cost per square foot?
Price: $10 to $40 per square foot. Pros: Laminate countertops are sometimes called Formica, which is technically a brand name for a combination of paper and resin that’s bonded together with high heat and pressure.
Is quartz a natural stone?
Pros: Don’t let the name fool you. Although quartz is one of the most commonly found minerals, quartz countertops are not mined from the earth. Instead, these countertops are “engineered stone,” meaning they’re created in a factory. This creates a countertop that has the advantage of being hardy but also requires less maintenance than natural stone. The surface is nonporous, making it stain-resistant, and most spills can be cleaned with mild dish soap and water.
Is Corian countertop hard to clean?
Made in a variety of colors but crafted to look like natural stone, Corian countertops are nonporous and easy to clean. Cons: Corian can scratch more easily than stone and is also less resistant to heat.
