By Katie MacGillivray
Whenever we are working on a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project, nine times out of ten we will be asked about the difference in countertop materials. It’s a great question! The countertop is a central part of not only the overall aesthetic of the room, but it also can get the most wear and tear, particularly in the kitchen. To help you decide which countertop is best for your needs, we’ve put together a quick list of our most commonly used materials.
Granite
Price: $$-$$$$
Advantages:
- Very Durable
- Resistant to scratching
- Resistant to heat
- Resistance to staining (if sealed)
- Resistant to water (if sealed)
- Vast array of aesthetic options – unique looks on a per slab basis
Disadvantages:
- Sealing required
- Weight – support required
Quartz and Other Engineered Stones
Price: $$$-$$$$
Advantages:
- Durable
- Resistant to scratching
- Resistant to stains
- Resistant to bacteria
- Resistant to water
- Easy maintenance
- Can be eco-friendly (non-toxic and some patterns have recycled content)
- Wide aesthetic options
Disadvantages:
- Susceptible to heat
- Weight – support required
Solid Surfacing
Price: $$-$$$
Advantages:
- Moderately to very durable
- Resistant to mold and mildew
- Can be eco-friendly (per manufacturer, IAQ and recycled content)
- Offers seamless sink and backsplash option
- Lighter weight than stone materials
- Wide aesthetic options – mimics wood and stone looks
Disadvantages:
- Susceptible to scratching
- Susceptible to heat
- Susceptible to staining
Paper Composite
Advantages:
- Durable
- Moderately resistant to heat
- Moderately resistant to water
- Eco-friendly (IAQ and recycled content)
- Lighter weight than stone materials
Disadvantages:
- Susceptible to scratching
- Susceptible to chemicals
- Limited aesthetic options compared to other materials
Note: Does darken over time Price: $$-$$$
Butcher Block/Wood
Price: $$
Advantages:
- deal for prep work in the kitchen
- Easy repair and re-staining
- Unique, warm look
Disadvantages:
- Oiling required
- Susceptible to scratching
- Susceptible to burning
- Susceptible to staining
- Susceptible to bacteria
- Susceptible to moisture changes – natural swelling and contracting
Concrete
Price: $$$$
Advantages:
- Extremely Durable
- Resistant to staining (if sealed regularly)
- Resistant to bacteria (if sealed regularly)
- Versatility for non-traditionally shaped countertops
- Wide aesthetic options – great for a custom color!
Disadvantages:
- Sealing required
- Will settle over time – small, typically non-structural cracks will develop
- Very heavy – extra support needed
- Susceptible to harsh chemicals
Tile
Price: $-$$$
Advantages:
- Durable
- Resistant to heat
- Resistant to water
Disadvantages:
- Uneven surface
- Grout susceptible to staining
- Susceptible to scratching/chipping
Soapstone
Price: $$$
Advantages:
- Very Durable
- Resistant to stains
- Resistant to chemicals
- Resistant to bacteria
- Resistant to heat
- Easy maintenance (oiling is recommended, however)
Disadvantages:
- Susceptible to scratching due to material content (can be sanded out)
Plastic Laminate Advantages:
- Easy maintenance
- Lightweight
- Can be ecofriendly (per manufacturer – IAQ + certified wood materials)
- Wide aesthetic options – mimics wood and stone looks
Disadvantages:
- Limited durability – can peel
- Susceptible to scratching
- Susceptible to burning
- Susceptible to staining
- Susceptible to chemicals
Price: $