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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. We will be taking a closer look at: |
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Once you decide on the countertop material that is right for your kitchen remodel we recommend three things in order to get the most out of your countertop investment:
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- 1) Buy the best quality countertop that you can afford.2) Have your countertop installed by professional countertop contractors.
- 3) Care for your countertop in accord with the guidelines set out by the manufacturer.
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Stone Countertops |
Granite Countertops |
| 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. |
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| Undermount sink: Yes. |
| Cost for Granite Counters: $115 to $210 per linear foot installed. |
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Marble Countertops |
| 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. |
| Undermount sink: Yes. |
| Cost for Marble Counters: $65 to $130 per linear foot. |
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Soapstone Countertops |
| 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. |
| Undermount sink: Yes. Self-rimming and apron sink options also available. |
| Cost for Soapstone Counters: Roughly $120 to $140 per linear foot. |
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Slate Countertops |
| A high quality slate is nonporous and very durable. Slate should be oiled to enhance its colors. Scratches can be removed with steel wool. Cleaning can be difficult when the surface of the slate is uneven. |
| Undermount sink: Yes. |
| Cost for Slate Counters: $65 to $165 per linear foot. |
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Limestone Countertops |
| Some kinds of limestone are more durable and are denser. Other types are softer and more susceptible to damage. Less dense limestone is not recommended for kitchen countertop use. |
| Undermount sink: Yes. |
| Cost for Limestone Counters: $80 to $125 per linear foot. |
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Engineered Stone |
| Engineered Stone, combinations of quartz that look like stone, for example, can resist stains and scratches. Looks like stone, but is easier to maintain. Engineered stone has less strength than real stone. |
| Undermount sink: Yes. No integral sink possible. |
| Cost for Engineered Stone Counters: $50 to $85 per linear foot |
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| *Travertine is not generally recommended for kitchen countertops because it is soft, porous and scratches easily. Acidic foods and liquids, like vinegar, lemon and alcohol, will quickly etch the stone. |
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Stainless Steel Countertops |
| Stainless steel counters are extremely durable, very hygienic and easy to clean. They can be integrated into a backsplash as well. Great for modern and commercial looking kitchens. They won't corrode and are great with hot items. They do scratch, but this part of the look. |
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| Undermount sink: No. Self-rimming and integral sink options are available. |
| Cost for Stainless Steel Counters: $30+ (for 16 gauge) per linear foot. More for integrated backsplashes, draining boards and sinks. |
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Concrete Counters |
| Concrete's unique look can give an industrial feel to your kitchen. It has a hard surface that is resistant to scratches and heat. It is available in various colors. Concrete can crack or stain. It is porous and needs to be sealed to prevent staining. |
| Undermount sink: Yes. Self-rimming and integral sink options also available. |
| Cost for Concrete Counters: $45 to $100 per linear foot. |
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Butcher Block Countertops |
| Butcher block or solid wood counters are good for cutting food as they do not damage knives. The surface, however, is not a good one for very hot pots, as the wood will burn and leave a mark. Butcher block requires regular cleaning to prevent bacteria build up and it can be sealed. While it is not generally recommended for all your counters you can use it in a food prep area. |
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| Cost for Butcher Block Counters: $45 to $100 per linear foot. Specialty woods are more costly. |
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Solid Surface Countertops |
| Solid Surface countertops, like the name suggests, is comprised of a solid plastic all the way through. It is seamless, so the finished look is clean. Solid surface countertops are pretty good at standing up to stains and they resist heat and scratches This counter material can also be repaired. Two brand names in solid surface counters are: Avonite and Corian. Some options even look like granite. |
| Undermount sink: Yes. Integral sink option also available. |
| Cost for Solid Surface Counters: $60 to $120 per linear foot. |
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Tile or Porcelain Countertops |
| Tiles are a great countertop option because they are relatively inexpensive, durable and one of the best options for withstanding heat. There is a lot of variety and color available too. Tiles that chip can be replaced and re-grouted. The grout needs regular maintenance to keep it bacteria free. |
| Undermount sink: No. |
| Cost for Tile Counters: $15 to $45 per foot. |
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Laminate Counters |
| Laminate is the most inexpensive countertop material available on the market. Additionally, there are a lot of color and design options with laminate. While these counters are easy to maintain, they do not tolerate heat, they will scratch and they are not highly durable. It is best to use cutting boards for chopping and trivets for hot pots. With appropriate care and use these counters can last for many years. |
| Undermount sink: No. |
| Cost for Laminate Counters: $15 to $75 per linear foot. |
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Green Countertops |
| Environmentally friendly countertop materials, such as EnviroSLAB from EnviroGLAS, are also available on the market should you be looking for a "Green" countertop. This counter is fabricated from recycled glass. You can choose the glass colors for a fully customized countertop. It is heat resistant and easy to maintain. The material in not cheap, but very durable. The cost is slightly more than some solid surface counters. |
| Undermount sink: Yes. |
| Cost for EnviroSLAB Counters: N/A. |
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| Our professional countertop installers can assist you in locating products in your area. These countertop pros can also install your countertops to put the finishing touch on your kitchen remodeling project. Contact or kitchen and bathroom countertop contractors for quotes. |
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