An easy guide to kitchen countertops

With the number of options available in the market, choosing the perfect kitchen countertops can be an overwhelming task. So, we’ve gathered everything you need to know about some of the most popular countertop materials.

1. Granite

Granite is one of the most commonly used materials in modern kitchens. It is a quarried slab of stone that is naturally textured but undergoes a grinding and polishing process that produces a smooth and lustrous end product. Each granite slab has a unique composition and look, and thus brings a one-of-a-kind character to your kitchen. Granite is durable and resistant to scratches and heat damage – making it the perfect choice for avid home cooks. It is also stain-resistant and quite easy to clean when sealed properly. However, along with its durability and versatile look comes a heavy price tag. Installing granite countertops in your kitchen can cost anywhere from $35 to $140 per square foot. This includes materials, labour and supplies. If you’re a homeowner with a large budget and planning on getting the most use of your kitchen, granite may be the perfect choice.

2. Quartz

Quartz is another popular countertop option for homebuyers due to its elegance. It’s an engineered stone made out of 93% quartz, and 7% binder and colour. As a result of this, quartz countertops are manufactured to fit your kitchen’s exact specifications. These countertops also come in a wide array of colours. You can find everything from cherry to black with a spectrum of creams, taupes and greys in between. This means that regardless of your home’s aesthetic, you’ll likely find a quartz slab that complements it perfectly. Quartz is extremely durable, easy to clean and resistant to stains and bacteria. This is a great option for buyers who cook often, are health conscious and looking for a low maintenance product. On the flip side, they aren’t the most budget-friendly option. Quartz countertops are among the most expensive, with total installation costs ranging anywhere from $47 to $100 per sq ft.

3. Laminate

Often called plastic laminate, these countertops are made from layers of plastic that are bonded to particle board to create a solid surface. Laminate countertops come in a wide variety of colours, textures and patterns ranging from options that resemble granite to others that look like wood. These countertops are also extremely budget-friendly and can be installed without professional help because of its lightweight nature. Laminate’s versatile look and affordability make it a cost-effective way to establish different aesthetics – from luxurious and elegant to boho chic. These surfaces are also very easy to maintain. A soapy washcloth or sponge is all you need to clean up after meal prep.

While laminate is budget-friendly, it isn’t the best option for anyone who cooks often. Laminate countertops are easily scratched and not as heat resistant as quartz or granite.

4. Marble

Richly veined marble countertops bring an unmatched level of elegance to any kitchen. Marble has many variations based on its mineral composition which gives it colour and veining and makes each marble countertop one-of-a-kind. Its rich spectrum of colours and veining makes marble an easy fit with most design aesthetics. These countertops are also incredibly durable, and if properly cared for, may increase your home’s value.

The downside to marble is that it is porous and thus susceptible to scratches and stains. Marble is also easily chipped and cracked by heavy items – making it unsuitable for areas that are often used for food preparation.

5. Wood

Wood countertops are often made of hardwoods like oak and maple. They come in a variety of colours and grain and give your kitchen a warm contemporary look. Wood countertops are ideal for anyone who enjoys cooking as they hide cuts and scratches very well. And, if you feel that your countertops have too many scratches, you can easily sand them back to pristine condition. Wood is also very easy to care for making them ideal for growing families. You can easily clean these counters with a sponge and some mild detergent. It should be noted that wood counters need to be resealed periodically to prevent water damage and bacteria build-up.

Choosing the perfect countertop material can be difficult. However, with this guide and careful consideration of your lifestyle and budget, you should be on your way to making the right decision.