A Quick Guide to Countertops

No matter where they’re installed, countertops are an integral part of a space’s function and its design. They can serve as desks, sitting space, make-up counters, cookie making stations, catch-all’s, and (although I’ve been scolded for this!) sometimes even cutting boards. On top of that, many a kitchen or bath’s design palette is influenced by the countertop’s coloring. With all that weight on a single decision, it’s important to make the right choice! Here’s a quick guide to the different materials you can choose for countertops, to make the decision-making process a little easier:

Granite. This natural stone features a wide variety of colors and grains, and when properly sealed it can last for ages! No need to worry about dents, dings, or hot pans. Granite can work with many budgets, with slabs starting at $40 or $50 a square foot and going up, depending on how exotic the material is.

Marble. Marble, like granite, is a natural stone. Its distinct veining and color patterns are easily recognizable and are synonymous with elegant, traditional kitchens. The downside? Marble is a softer stone, meaning it can scratch and stain easier than most other countertop materials. It’s also a bit pricier, ranging from $60-$100+ per square foot.

This stunning installation of Dekton looks like marble.

Engineered Quartz. If you love the look of marble but don’t want to deal with its high-maintenance reputation, quartz is the stone for you! This manmade material is tough and nonporous, making it anti-bacterial and easy to maintain, and it comes in any color imaginable. Since its manmade, it can be manufactured in a range of different qualities and price ranges. Some can cost $50/SF, while others can reach up into the hundreds. Some examples of quartz brands include Caesarstone, Dekton, and Aurea Stone. Check ‘em out!

Concrete. While concrete is a more expensive option (think $100-$150/SF), it is by far the most customizable and durable. There are a plethora of pigments and dyes that can be added for color, and you can even inset glass or stones to create personalized patterns. Like granite, it needs to be sealed, but after that, it’s practically indestructible (please don’t take this as a challenge!).

Stainless Steel. You don’t need to be a professional chef to appreciate the beauty and durability of stainless steel! It’s used in restaurant kitchens for a reason: it’s easy to clean and stain- and heat-resistant. There are some downsides – it shows scratches and smudges pretty easily – but the benefits outweigh the downfalls, in my opinion. With SS, you’re looking at around $80 a square foot.

Of course, there are a huge number of other countertop options besides the ones listed here. From the old-fashioned tile (hello, 70’s!) to the eco-friendly recycled glass (i.e. Vetrazzo), I could write about stones and slabs for days. However, for brevity, and as not to bore you, I’ll stop here J Have other questions or queries about countertops not addressed above? Give us a call. We’re here to help!