When deciding which kitchen countertop to go with, it can be a tough choice! Read on for a breakdown of the different materials and their pros/cons.
When having a home built or doing a remodel, it can be difficult to choose which kitchen countertop material to use. What is the most durable? Which one is good for resale value? There are several questions that you might be asking; below is a breakdown of the various material options and why they may or may not be a good choice!
What are my kitchen countertop choices?
Engineered Stone Quartz: $15-$70 per square foot. This is the go to alternative to natural stone. Not only is this material pretty, it actually requires less maintenance than granite in that it doesn’t need sealing or as much regular care.
Granite: $15-$140 per square foot. This material is still holding onto its popularity because it’s a great choice for countertops. It costs less than other natural stones, it’s gorgeous and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, and it doesn’t need a large amount of upkeep.
Marble: $15-$190 per square foot, with the majority costing between $25-$60 per square foot. This stunning material is high end but comes with a downside. It’s very easily scratched and stained, especially in contrast to granite.
Laminate or Formica: $8 to $27 per square foot. You may think of boring and plain laminate from the 80’s and 90’s but that’s not what you’ll find on the market today. These materials have come a long way and some of them resemble more costly materials at a much lower price.
Limestone: $10-$70 per square foot. Limestone’s neutral tone can compliment almost any home and it’s definitely a unique material choice. On the downside, it does scratch easily since it’s a softer stone. Occasionally sealing this stone can help protect and maintain it.
Slate: $20 to $60 per square foot. Another unique option, this material is usually deep gray or green in color. It can be easier to keep looking clean since it’s moisture resistant and can easily hide spots.
Corian: $20-$75 per square foot. Solid surfaces have been a popular choice; they require very little maintenance and are durable. There is also a wide range of style choices when it comes to Corian. Keep in mind however that this material scratches easily and absorbs moisture quickly.
More Choices
Butcher Block: $10 to $38 per square foot. This is an attractive option and goes very well with a modern but rustic decor style. This material needs to be oiled every 6 months, but the budget friendly cost and the style of butcher block makes it a popular choice for homeowners.
Concrete: $50 to $100 per square foot. If you appreciate a modern style, you may be interested in concrete countertops. They are very durable, are thick, and really lend a modern style to any home. On the flip side, they do chip and crack somewhat easily so be prepared to have them repaired as needed.
Acrylic: $13-$30 per square foot. This countertop type is made out of 100% resin and is very affordable. This material is easily customized and non-porous and low maintenance. If you are looking for something similar to a high end look such as marble without the large price tag, acrylic counters may be a good option for you.
