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Countertop Material : In researching which countertop material can stand up to the demands of your kitchen it is vital to take a closer look at the characteristics and composition of various counter options.

Price, performance and maintenance requirements all factor in to the choice you will make for your kitchen. *Note: Prices are shown per linear foot. A linear foot of countertop is 12" wide by 25 1/2" deep.

Granite countertops have become synonymous with luxury kitchens. Granite is a popular choice because it is 1) heat resistant, so it won't burn, 2) one of the hardest stone-countertop materials and 3) scratch resistant. Granite is a low porous stone. However, it is still necessary to seal it. This should be done periodically - roughly every six months, to maintain a reduced porosity and prevent staining. The biggest disadvantage is that granite is the most expensive counter material.

Marble stains easily, is soft and it can not take high heat. While it is often not recommended for a countertop everywhere in the kitchen, it can be used in a bakery prep zone. Bakers and pastry chefs love marble for its natural capacity to stay cold.

Soapstone is one of the least porous counters and is therefore more sterile and easy to clean than other stones. It is dense, resists stains and is not penetrable. There is limited color selection and the stone turns to a dark charcoal gray from being oiled and from aging. It should be oiled regularly. Often used for Laboratories.