what is the best type of countertops

What is the best countertop material for a kitchen?

Granite has long been one of the most popular kitchen countertop materials. Granite may always go with an earthly design in your kitchen because it is a natural stone with earthly aesthetics. If properly cared for, granite will last for over a decade.

What are the different types of kitchen countertops?

Types of Kitchen Countertops: Which One’s Best for You? 1 Granite countertops. ... 2 Laminate countertops. ... 3 Corian countertops. ... 4 Marble countertops. ... 5 Butcher block countertops. ... 6 Quartz countertops. ... 7 Soapstone countertops. ... 8 Concrete countertops. ... 9 Stainless-steel countertops. ...

Are granite slabs still the best countertops?

For some time now, solid granite slabs have been regarded as the premium countertop material. While you might think the trend will eventually end, the virtues of granite continue to make it a perennial top performer. Granite counters have a deep, rich, complex appearance that cannot be duplicated in any type of man-made material.

What is a good rating for countertops?

Rating: 3.0. Solid-surface countertops are in the upper tier of countertop materials, earning a rating of 3.2 out of 5.0. Second only to concrete as the most trendy countertop material, stainless steel's popularity has waxed and waned over the years.

What type of countertop is most durable?

QuartzQuartz 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.

What is the highest quality kitchen countertop?

Quartz: Best Overall Choice Although there are those who disagree, quartz countertops—a form of engineered stone—may well be the best of all countertop materials when all factors are considered.

What is the best counter top material to use?

Countertop IntelligenceQuartz. Pros: It mimics the look of stone but requires less maintenance. ... Granite. Pros: Each slab of this natural material is unique; rare colors and veining cost more. ... Soapstone, Limestone, and Marble. ... Laminate. ... Solid Surfacing. ... Recycled Glass. ... Butcher Block.

What is the easiest countertop to maintain?

Laminate countertops are the easiest kitchen countertop to maintain. Once installed, all you will need to do is clean them with mild soap and water. No additional maintenance is required.

What is the most popular 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 better than granite?

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.

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.

Which is better for resale granite or quartz?

In general, granite has a higher resale value than quartz. Granite can increase the value of your home by as much as 25 percent of the countertop's retail value, according to Robert Measer, of Hunt Real Estate.

What is the best value kitchen 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.

What countertops can you put hot pots on?

Here are the options you should consider.Engineered Stone. Unlike laminate countertops, engineered stone won't discolor or crack due to heat. ... Granite. One of the most heat-resistant countertop materials available today is granite. ... Quartz. Like granite, quartz is also very heat-resistant. ... Stainless Steel and Aluminum.

What is the best 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 countertops are no maintenance?

Corian Solid Surface countertops are a wonderful in-between for laminate and stone countertops. They are made from minerals and acrylic or polyester resin, giving them a nonporous surface that is easy to keep clean. They are heat resistant, seamless, and extremely durable without regular maintenance or upkeep.

What is high-end countertop?

Quartz (Engineered Stone) This high-end material is one of the top choices for a luxury kitchen countertop. Best known for its impressive strength and impact resistance, Caesarstone quartz ranks among the most durable materials for kitchen countertops.

What countertops do chefs prefer?

However, the reason top chefs prefer granite is its ability to withstand this abuse. Granites beauty is not skin deep; this is a durable stone that is perfect for even the high demands of a professional kitchen. Consider these facts about granite's durability: – Mohs scale.

Which is more expensive quartz or granite?

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.

Which is better quartz or marble?

In general, quartz is the more durable of the two materials: it better resists scratches and bacteria and requires less care and maintenance. However, marble does outperform quartz in heat resistance. As an engineered stone created with resin, quartz is not very heat-resistant.

What is the best countertop material for a kitchen?

Granite has long been one of the most popular kitchen countertop materials. Granite may always go with an earthly design in your kitchen because it is a natural stone with earthly aesthetics.

Why is it important to consider how you plan to use your kitchen when choosing which countertop material is suitable for you?

All of these criteria are important to consider because they will affect the countertop’s durability and support.

Why should you invest in your countertop?

One of the highlights of your kitchen is your countertop. When it comes to picking the material for your countertop, it’s not just about the aesthetics. You want a countertop that is practical and meets your needs.

What does the edge of a countertop do?

the edges of your countertop are a little detail that may change the overall tone of your kitchen. Whether your kitchen is traditional, transitional, or modern, the stylish edge you choose can help to enhance the look and style you’ve chosen. Different decorative borders can also affect the level of safety in your kitchen, which is important if you have kids.

What is soapstone used for?

Soapstone is a natural stone that is usually dark gray in color and has a silky smooth finish. It’s also been used as a substitute for granite. Because it is not as hard as granite, it is more prone to scratches and damage. However, due to its softness, it can be carved in the style of your choice.

What is the most visible part of a kitchen?

One of the most visible aspects of your kitchen and one of the most used is the kitchen countertop. It can increase the value of your home if you invest in it. Your counter top can be made out of a variety of materials.

How long does marble last?

It will enhance the aesthetic of your home and provide you with a good return on investment. Marble is a durable material. It will last 20 to 30 years if it is properly polished and cared for.

What is quartz countertop?

You might be surprised to learn that quartz countertops aren’t made of 100 percent quartz but rather they are a composite stone engineered from natural quartz combined with a resin binder. This stone is also non-porous, incredibly hard, and never needs to be re-sealed.

What color is marble countertop?

There’s nothing else that looks quite like a bright white marble finish, but marble countertops are available in other colors as well, including shades of gray, brown, taupe, and even green.

Why do people use quartz countertops?

Because they're man-made, quartz countertops are a great way to get the look of natural stones like marble or granite without worrying about durability.

What is marble good for?

One unique aspect of marble is that it maintains a naturally low temperature, making it ideal for people who enjoy baking. Marble is a great surface to roll out and shape dough.

What is a butcher block countertop?

Butcher block is an affordable alternative to stone countertops. It’s made from pieces of wood that are bonded to form a larger slab. Butcher block countertops have traditionally been made from all types of wood, including cherry, maple, oak, walnut, and even teak. What finish you choose depends entirely on the style of your home and kitchen.

When did tile countertops come out?

Tile countertops had their heyday in the 70s and 80s, but they're starting to make a comeback. If you're good with DIY and need to stay on budget, tile is an option worth considering.

Can you cut pots on granite?

No trivet needed! However, it isn’t wise to cut directly on granite; this stone is so hard that it will dull your knives. Types of countertops - concrete. Credit: Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong.

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.

Which countertop is best for resisting burns?

Quartz countertops are among the best at resisting burns and scorching.

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.

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.

Is tile countertop attractive?

Appearance. Tile surfaces themselves can be very attractive, but the presence of the many seams in a tile countertop is a big turn-off to anyone who cooks. Not only is the uneven texture of a tile surface problematic, but the grout lines can make cleanup a nightmare. Rating: 1.0.

Can you put concrete in a kitchen?

If you've got a stylish, modern house, you can do no better than to install a concrete countertop in the kitchen. While these monolithic beauties would look odd in a period house, they fit perfectly well into any contemporary kitchen. Yet, surprisingly enough, concrete can be finicky when used for countertops.

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.

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 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.

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.

What is the best countertop material for a kitchen?

Marble. 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.

What is solid surface countertop?

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.

Why laminate countertops?

The first and most compelling reason to consider laminate countertops is the nearly unbeatable price. Other perks include easy maintenance, a variety of style options and bacteria resistance. Although the non-porous material won’t stain from wine or oil spills, it definitely can chip or burn.

How often should I clean soapstone countertops?

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.

Is quartz a natural stone?

One misconception about quartz is that it’s an entirely natural stone. In reality, this “engineered stone” is made from crushed quartz and a resin filler. Still, quartz countertops are often seen as alternatives to granite (which is available in fewer colors) or marble (which is less durable).

Is quartz cheaper than granite?

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.

Is marble easy to stain?

Beyond the expense, there are other notable downsides to marble, starting with the fact it’s frustratingly easy to stain and scratch. 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.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are a low-maintenance option, perfect for any busy kitchen. Made from the strongest natural mineral found on earth and mixed with resin, it's nonporous, stain-resistant and easy to clean. You’ll never have to seal, condition or polish it.

Granite Countertops

Granite is naturally resistant to heat and scratches, making it a popular choice for kitchens. When properly sealed, it’s stain- and bacteria-resistant, meaning it’s the ideal surface for food prep.

Solid Surface Countertops

Solid surface countertops are the smart choice when you want an affordable and practical option. Made from nonporous acrylic, solid surface countertops are easy to clean and resist stains and bacteria.

Laminate Countertops

Laminate countertops are a stylish and affordable option that’ll make any kitchen attractive. Choose from a variety of styles, patterns and finishes, and enjoy all the ways laminate makes life easier.

Butcher-Block Countertops

Butcher-block countertops bring inviting warmth to any kitchen. They’re also perfect for dining areas or focal points like kitchen islands or desks.

Recycled Glass Countertops

A recycled glass countertop is an attractive option that lends a completely unique look to a kitchen. The glass shards are held together using a resin-based binder or a cement-based binder.

Combining Countertop Surfaces

For a truly customized cooking experience, install a combination of different countertops for specific kitchen tasks. For example, stone surfaces work nicely near the range, while solid surfaces are perfect around the sink for easy cleaning.

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 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 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 .

Why are granite countertops so popular?

Granite countertops are becoming more and more common thanks to their increased availability and affordability.

What is granite countertop?

Granite is a natural stone countertop material which has been highly prized in the kitchen for many years. It is available in a wide variety of colors and blends well with many different flooring and wall designs. Granite countertops are becoming more and more common thanks to their increased availability and affordability.

What is recycled paper countertop?

Recycled paper countertops are typically only available in dark, matte hues, although some companies offer more vivid colors. The most popular recycled paper countertop manufacturer is PaperStone, but they are also made by a variety of other companies, including RichLite, ShetkaStone, and Kliptech.

Why is recycled glass countertop so unique?

Also, some colors of glass are more expensive than others. Pros: Every recycled glass countertop is unique because a different blend of glass is used in each one. They are very tough and won’t chip easily and require only soap and water to clean.

What is Corian countertop made of?

What it is: Originally invented by DuPont in the 1960s and marketed under the brand name Corian, solid surface countertops are made from acrylic and polyester blends. They were originally intended to mimic the look of natural stone, while being stronger and non-porous.

How much does a wood countertop cost?

What it costs: Prices vary widely from supplier to supplier. In general, ordinary wood countertops run $75 to $150 per square foot installed; expect to pay slightly more.

How much does it cost to install a butcher block countertop?

On average, the total cost of installing a Butcher block countertop is between $2,500 and $4,500. Pros: Butcher block countertops look warm and welcoming compared to the cool, sterile look of steel or granite. They can be made of reclaimed or salvaged wood, which drastically reduces their environmental impact.