Whether you’re updating your guest bathroom or preparing to create a spa-like master bathroom, the right countertops can make all the difference. With so many materials on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. Our guide to bathroom countertops provides some important considerations for selecting the best options for your space.
What should I consider when selecting a bathroom countertop material?
When selecting a bathroom countertop material, there are several important factors to consider. Bathroom countertop materials must withstand constant water exposure, humidity, and heavy use. Additionally, these surfaces are typically exposed to cosmetic products and toiletries that can stain certain materials. Different countertop materials will require varying levels of cleaning and maintenance. For example, granite and marble may require a simple annual reseal, while solid surfaces like quartz require less maintenance.
What is your bathroom’s design aesthetic? Picking the right material, color, and pattern can help evoke a modern, rustic, or luxurious feel. The focal point of your bathroom is also important. A statement shower, free-standing bathtub, bold wall color, or large chandelier may compete with busy or bold countertops.
Finally, consider your bathroom remodeling budget. The final cost of your bathroom countertop depends on the quality of the material, the amount needed, and the complexity of installation.
Best Bathroom Countertop Materials
Granite Countertops
Granite is one of the most popular bathroom countertop materials due to its unique textured appearance, wide range of patterns, and resistance to chipping.
Features of Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are durable and heat- and spill-resistant, making them ideal for bathrooms. Since each stone is unique, these surfaces are also stylistically versatile. You can choose between shiny and matte finishes and solid, marbled, and speckled patterns.
While granite countertops are beautiful and durable, they do require annual resealing to prevent bacterial growth and stains. If you choose granite, you also have slightly less control over the final appearance of your counters. Granite is a natural stone, so each slab is unique, making it challenging to create a uniform surface.
Despite its downsides, granite is a classic, beautiful material for countertops in your bathroom.
Cost of Granite Countertops
Granite countertops cost between $40 and $100 per square foot, making them one of the more expensive countertop materials on the market.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular material, created by combining crushed quartz crystals with resins and pigments. Because quartz countertops are man-made, you can choose from a nearly endless selection of patterns and colors to fit your bathroom remodeling vision.
Features of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are a beautiful and versatile material. Options mimic porcelain, granite, marble, and other stones. You can choose between light, simple patterns or more intricate designs to fit the style of your bathroom. These surfaces are also durable and resistant to stains and bacteria.
While quartz countertops have several advantages, they are more vulnerable to heat damage and can be more difficult to repair since they cannot be filled and polished.
Quartz countertops are a highly customizable material, perfect for modern and traditional designs.
Cost of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are one of the pricier options with materials typically costing $80 to $150 per square foot.
Quartzite Countertops
Quartzite countertops are created by joining natural stone slabs and coating them with a sealant. Since quartzite is formed by exposing metamorphic rock to heat and pressure over millions of years, the material is extremely hard and durable. With proper sealing, quartzite becomes nearly impervious to water damage and resists stains from toiletries.
Features of Quartzite Countertops
Quartzite comes in a range of hues, including white, gray, blue, green, and more, making it appropriate for any bathroom style.
Quartzite countertops are also durable and resistant to heat, scratches, and chipping. Additionally, these surfaces require minimal maintenance and are easy to clean. Due to its tremendous variety, this material can be used for bathroom countertops, shower walls, and flooring.
Quartzite is susceptible to etching and cracks from acidic cleaners or heavy impacts. Like granite, quartzite slabs vary, making it difficult to create a completely uniform surface. As with any natural stone, we recommend consulting with design/build remodeling and visiting a showroom to view pieces together.
Many homeowners gravitate to quartzite countertops due to their natural appearance and elegant patterns.
Cost of Quartzite Countertops
The average cost of quartzite countertops is $80 to $120 per square foot.
Our Recommendation
With so many bathroom countertop materials available, we recommend a consultation to help refine your selection. Our award-winning kitchen remodeling team has 20 years of experience helping homeowners like you create their dream bathroom.
View our portfolio for more bathroom flooring inspiration
Are you still deciding which material you’d like to use for your bathroom countertops? Check out our award-winning bathroom remodels for more inspiration.
