There are a lot of countertop options for your upcoming kitchen remodel. Some will make your kitchen look amazing, while others will boost its functionality. Choosing which one to choose becomes a matter of taste and preference.
However, there are a few countertop materials that we here at MGS Contracting Services love using. There are also some other countertops materials that NKBA loves, and you’ll find everything about them on their website.
Keep reading and discover our top 14 choices for countertop material and learn the advantages and drawbacks of each.
1. Granite
Granite countertops are like nature’s artwork for your kitchen. Formed by heat and pressure over time, they offer stunning patterns and colors that can’t be replicated. They’re highly durable and can handle hot pots without worry. However, they require periodic sealing to prevent stains.
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2. Quartz
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, combine the beauty of natural stone with modern technology. They are non-porous, meaning they won’t harbor bacteria or require sealing. With a wide range of colors and patterns, they’re versatile and easy to clean.
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3. Marble
Marble countertops exude luxury and elegance with their soft veining. They’re perfect for baking and rolling dough due to their cool surface. However, they are more porous and susceptible to staining, so spills should be cleaned promptly.
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4. Laminate
Laminate countertops are budget-friendly and come in a variety of colors and patterns. They’re easy to clean and resistant to stains. However, they can be damaged by heat and are more prone to scratches.
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5. Butcher Block
Butcher block countertops offer a warm and inviting feel. They’re great for food preparation, but they need regular oiling to keep them looking their best. They can also be scratched and may show wear over time.
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6. Concrete
Concrete countertops bring a modern and industrial vibe to your kitchen. They’re customizable in terms of color, texture, and shape. However, they can crack over time and may need sealing to resist stains.
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7. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel countertops are sleek, modern, and hygienic. They’re heat-resistant and easy to clean, making them a favorite in professional kitchens. However, they can show fingerprints and scratches.
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8. Soapstone
Soapstone countertops age beautifully, darkening over time. They’re naturally heat-resistant and have a smooth, matte finish. However, they can scratch and may require oiling to maintain their appearance.
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9. Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile countertops offer a wide range of design possibilities. They’re affordable and durable, but the grout lines between tiles need regular cleaning and can be a bit challenging to maintain.
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10. Solid Surface
Solid surface countertops provide a seamless look and can be repaired if scratched. They’re available in various colors and patterns, although they may not be as heat-resistant as other options.
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11. Wood
Imagine the natural warmth of wood gracing your kitchen. Wood countertops offer a rustic charm and are perfect for adding a touch of nature to your home. They’re great for cutting and chopping, but remember to oil them regularly to maintain their luster. Keep in mind that wood can scratch and dent over time, adding character to your space.
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12. Natural Stone
Natural stone countertops, like granite and marble, bring the beauty of the Earth into your kitchen. Their unique patterns and colors add an element of luxury. Natural stone is incredibly durable, and while sealing is necessary to prevent stains, these countertops can last a lifetime.
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13. Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile countertops offer a wide range of design possibilities. They’re incredibly durable, resisting both heat and stains. You can create stunning mosaics or classic patterns, but remember that grout lines need consistent cleaning to maintain their beauty.
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14. Recycled Glass
For an eco-friendly and artistic choice, consider recycled glass countertops. These countertops are made from crushed glass pieces embedded in a binder material. They’re available in vibrant colors and patterns, and their non-porous surface resists stains.
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Countertop Material FAQs
The cost of a countertop can vary widely based on the material, size, complexity of installation, and location. Generally, more premium materials like granite or quartz tend to be more expensive than laminate or tile options.
It’s best to request quotes from local suppliers to get an accurate estimate for your specific project.
Laminate counters are probably the cheapest countertop material that you’ll find. The average cost of laminate countertops is $1,208, depending on the type of laminate and the labor costs in your area.
Wood countertop materials cost $20 to $70 per square foot on average. For a 50 square feet of countertop space, a wood countertop will cost you around $1k to $3.5k depending on the material itself, the dimensions, and the finish.
Marble slab countertops range from $40 to $100 per square foot, depending on the seller and the slab dimensions. For example, a 50 square feet of marble counter space will cost anywhere between $3k to $5k.
The “best” material depends on your preferences, budget, and usage. Quartz is often considered a versatile choice due to its durability and low maintenance. However, granite, marble, and solid surface materials also have their advantages. Choose the material that aligns with your style, needs, and maintenance preferences.
Not necessarily. Countertop and cabinet colors don’t have strict rules, but many homeowners prefer a contrast. Light countertops can provide a clean, spacious feel, while darker ones can add depth and elegance. Ultimately, it’s about achieving a balance that suits your kitchen’s aesthetics.
In 2023, we’re seeing trends like matte finishes, veined patterns (especially in quartz), sustainable materials, and bold colors making a statement. Recycled glass countertops are gaining popularity due to their eco-friendly nature and artistic designs.
Quartz countertops are known for being highly durable and requiring minimal maintenance. They’re non-porous, resistant to stains, and don’t require sealing. Other good options include granite, porcelain tile, and some solid surface materials.
Countertop dimensions can vary, but standard depth is usually around 25 to 26 inches, and height is typically 36 inches. Length varies depending on your kitchen layout.
Countertop overlays, also known as countertop resurfacing or refinishing, involve placing a new layer of material on top of an existing countertop. This can be a cost-effective way to update the look of your countertops without a complete replacement.
The cost of installing new countertops depends on factors like material, size, complexity of installation, and location. On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
The main types of countertops include natural stone (e.g., granite, marble), engineered stone (e.g., quartz), wood, laminate, solid surface, concrete, stainless steel, and more recently, recycled glass.
“Highest quality” can be subjective, but materials like natural granite and high-grade quartz are often considered top-quality due to their durability, aesthetics, and resistance to wear and tear.
Conclusion
If you’re still not sure about your countertop material, we’re here to help.
MGS Contracting Services offers professional kitchen remodeling services for homeowners in Northern VA. We have our own designers that’ll help you choose the perfect countertop material for your new remodel, and our process to get started will make it extremely easy to get your well-deserved upgrade.
Request a free quote today or call us directly at (571) 577-9554 to discuss your upcoming project!