Do you know anything about kitchen countertop materials? Well, now’s the time to start learning. I can only imagine you got here by searching about types of countertops, so I’m happy to say that you got to the right place!
These eight countertop materials are widely popular and each one has its own pros and cons list, check them out so you can pick the best type for your style and kitchen!
“Everything happens in the kitchen. Life happens in the kitchen.” - Andrew Zimmern
Butcher Block
Butcher block is a type of wood material that’s becoming more and more popular. It gives the kitchen a nice cottage look, both being decorative and functional. Better yet: it’s one of the most economical options.
Pros
- Easy to install and repair - scratches can simply be sanded away and it’s super easy to reseal
- Easy to clean - just wipe down with water and soap
- You can choose different wood according to species, colors, and finishes
- Wood makes a more peaceful (a.k.a.: quiet) kitchen by reducing clashing and banging
- Very long lasting if properly cared for
Cons
- Though it’s easy to repair, it’s also easy to scratch
- Needs regular sealing
- Standing water is a huge no-no
- It needs regular applications of mineral oil and regular refinishing (to prevent cracking)
- Bacteria will be an issue if you don’t keep up with your countertop maintenance
Concrete
Concrete countertops are super modern and make your kitchen look great. Because they’re so customizable, available in any stain color and texture, people are really feeling drawn to it in the last couple of years. We definitely see a lot more concrete countertops nowadays than we used to.
Pros
- Energy efficient
- Heat and scratch resistant
- Exotic and unusual look (it can create from a rustic look to an industrial look)
Cons
- Custom work makes it more expensive
- Cracking can happen
- Needs regular sealing
Marble
The greatest thing about marble is its timeless appeal. Any kitchen will look amazing if using marble as your countertop material. Not only amazing, but also really unique since there are no two identical sheets of marble. Of course, there are some downsides to it as well, so check out the pros and cons.
Pros
- Unique veining
- Beautiful natural stone
- Boost resale value
- Waterproof and heatproof
Cons
- It can be quite expensive
- Needs regular sealing to prevent stains
- Hard to repair (and easily scratched)
Granite
Granite makes any kitchen look luxurious with its natural stone quality. But there are still lots of things to consider before picking it as your favorite material.
Pros
- Highly heat-resistant
- A wide variety of colors and types
- Long-lasting
- Boosts resale value
Cons
- Requires regular sealing
- Installation needs to be accurate or crackings will occur
- Not DIYable
- It can have natural imperfections
Quartz
Quartz, also known as engineered stone, has many benefits in its favor. It’s somewhat similar to granite and marble but created to be a better-performing version of those two. This is what you need to know about it.
Pros
- Can come in any size and shape
- Easy to maintain
- Resistant to stain and heat
Cons
- Edges can chip (unless you opt for rounded edges)
- Can’t DIY repairs, need a pro to do the maintenance
- More expensive than other types of countertop materials
- Heavier stone
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a great option for those who prefer a modern-looking, industrial type of kitchen. It’s highly praised for being a bacteria-free material since it’s so easy to clean and to maintain hygiene.
Pros
- Modern-looking
- Impermeable to heat damage
- Easy to clean (easiest of all materials, as a matter of fact)
- Adds real estate value
Cons
- Not a surface made for cutting, it can easily scratch
- It’s one of the noisiest materials
- Can be more expensive than other types of countertop materials
Soapstone
Soapstone is not such a common material lately, but it has many advantages to consider. For example, did you know it doesn’t require regular sealing as other natural stones do? Check out what else is so great about this type of material.
Pros
- Gives the kitchen an antique, classic look
- Stain and heat resistant
- Can easily be sanded if damaged
- Bacteria resistant
Cons
- Needs mineral oil applications occasionally
- May darken over time
- Not DIYable
- Can easily scratch
Bonus: Recycled Countertops
If you’re looking for the most eco-friendly option, you can go with recycled countertops. They’re available in all sorts of materials, such as concrete, glass, paper, and plastic. Recycled countertops also come in a variety of colors and textures, and they’re usually more durable and low-maintenance than other types of countertop materials.
Give your kitchen an update with a new countertop material. Get a free quote for your project!
