Source: Dan Simms | fixr.com
The best kitchen countertop material for most kitchens is granite, which balances affordability, durability, and visual appeal. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all material, and the options available each provide different benefits and drawbacks.
Photo by Alon Koppel
Scratch Resistance |
Your countertops will see a lot of action from hands, cookware, utensils, and more. A scratch-resistant material like granite, marble, quartz, or quartzite will help keep your countertops looking like new for longer.
Heat Resistance |
Some options, like laminate, wood, and solid-surface countertops, will burn, discolor, or melt if you place a hot pan directly on them. Choose granite, marble, concrete, or stainless steel to avoid that issue entirely.
Stain Resistance |
Some countertop materials, like wood, concrete, and the grout between ceramic tiles, will stain quickly. If you don’t want to worry about spills or cleaning them up immediately, go with a non-porous material, like granite, stainless steel, quartz/quartzite, or solid-surface material.
Lifespan |
To get the most value for your money, balance upfront costs with longevity. Laminate is the most affordable but lasts about a fifth as long as more expensive granite, quartz/quartzite, and marble.
Visual Appeal |
Durability may be more important in your home, but you should still choose a material that looks good and matches your home’s aesthetic. Consider hiring a kitchen designer to help you choose the best material for your space.
Budget |
Consider your kitchen remodel budget when deciding on counters. Expect to put around 15%-25% of your total budget toward new kitchen countertops.
Most popular countertop materials ranking 1-9 |
1. Granite
2. Quartz or Quartzite
3. Marble
4. Solid-Surface Material
5. Ceramic Tile
6. Stainless Steel
7. Butcher Block
8. Concrete
9. Laminate
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