Are you preparing to remodel your kitchen? Selecting the right countertop material is one of the most important decisions you will make, as this feature impacts the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen. With so many materials available, we know how difficult this decision can be. This brief guide to kitchen countertop materials showcases some of the most popular choices and what to consider when shopping for your next countertop.
What should I consider when selecting a kitchen countertop material?
Several factors go into selecting a kitchen countertop. First, what is your design vision for the space? Do you want a traditional kitchen, a modern entertainment space, or something in between? Different materials have varied patterns, colors, and finishes that may suit different styles. What will be the focal point of your kitchen? Some materials have bolder colors and patterns, drawing the eye to the surface, while others blend seamlessly into the room, allowing other pieces to shine. We recommend creating a vision board for your kitchen remodel, including your favorite countertop styles.
Another consideration is how you use your kitchen. If you have young kids or entertain frequently, selecting a material that is easier to clean and resistant to scratches is beneficial. If you cook frequently, you may want a countertop that is heat resistant, such as granite or quartz. How much time and effort are you willing to put into maintaining your kitchen countertops? Some countertop materials require annual (or semi-annual) resealing to maintain their appearance.
Finally, consider your budget. The cost per square foot and installation price can vary by the type of kitchen countertop material, the size of your kitchen, and the individual slabs you select. If you select a kitchen countertop with veining, the number of slabs needed to keep the vein running the same direction could affect your countertop cost. Sometimes, you will need to get what is called “book-matched slabs“ so the veins will line up. Be sure to work with an expert who can create a layout for you, so you know in advance how it will look.
Best Kitchen Countertop Materials
Quartz Countertops
Quartz is an increasingly popular material for kitchen countertops 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 kitchen remodeling vision.
Features of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are beautiful and versatile, with options that mimic porcelain, granite, marble, and other stones. You can choose between light, simple patterns, and more complex designs to fit the space and style of your kitchen. Additionally, quartz can be outfitted with ogee, full bullnose, half bullnose, and many other edge finishes. These surfaces are non-porous, making them resistant to liquids and bacterial build-up.
While quartz countertops have several advantages, they are more vulnerable to heat damage than granite and other natural stones. Most slabs can withstand heat up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit before discoloration and warping occurs. Quartz can also be more difficult to repair since it cannot be filled and polished.
Quartz countertops are a highly customizable material that is perfect for modern and traditional kitchens.
Cost of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are one of the pricier options with materials typically costing $80 to $150 per square foot.
Marble Countertops
Marble countertops are created by cutting and polishing large blocks of marble to achieve a timeless, elegant surface. As marble is a natural stone material, each slab is unique. We recommend consulting with an experienced kitchen design-build contractor and visiting a slab yard to select the pieces for your kitchen counters.
Features of Marble Countertops
Marble countertops are known for their iconic veined patterns and range of colors including white, black, green, gray, yellow, and rose. Additionally, you can select a glossy polished finish, matte honed finish, lightly textured concrete finish, or coarser brushed finish. Marble countertops are also relatively durable, heat-resistant, and have good longevity. These surfaces tend to remain cool, making them excellent for delicate food prep and baking.
While marble countertops have many stylistic and functional benefits, they have several limitations. Marble countertops do require resealing to maintain their strength and are susceptible to water damage and scratches.
Marble countertops feature a beautiful, natural material. Because of their range of designs, marble countertops complement classic, traditional, and contemporary kitchens.
Cost of Marble Countertops
Marble countertops are one of the most expensive options on the market typically costing $40 to $100 per square foot.
Granite Countertops
Granite is one of the most popular materials for kitchen countertops due to its unique textured appearance, wide range of patterns, and resistance to chipping. Many homeowners gravitate towards granite countertops due to their timeless elegance.
Features of Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are durable, and are heat- and spill-resistant, making them an ideal option for kitchens. These surfaces are also stylistically versatile since each stone is unique. Granite slabs come in various undertones of white, gray, beige, black, and brighter colors. You can also choose between shiny and matte finishes, as well as 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 varies slightly, which can make it difficult to create a uniform surface.
Granite is a classic, beautiful material for kitchen countertops.
Cost of Granite Countertops
The price for granite countertops ranges from $40 to $100 per square foot, making it one of the more expensive countertop materials on the market.
Our Recommendation
With so many kitchen countertop materials available, we recommend a consultation to help refine your selection of materials. Our award-winning kitchen remodeling team has 20 years of experience helping homeowners like you create their dream kitchen.
View our portfolio for more kitchen countertop inspiration
Are you still deciding which material you’d like for your kitchen countertops? Check out our award-winning kitchen remodels for inspiration.
Explore the Possibilities During a Free Remodeling Consultation
Wherever you are in the kitchen remodeling process, House to Home Solutions is here to help with all your design questions. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation or to visit our Design Studio in Rockville.
