Confused by countertops? Don’t feel bad. There’s lots of info—some of it contradictory, lots of it confusing—which makes it hard to understand your options for a big kitchen project you may only tackle once or twice in your lifetime. In this blog I’ll keep it simple and just cover the basics: the main countertop options and what you can expect if you select an option to be a focal point for your kitchen.

Granite: Granite is a natural stone that comes in slab form. If you want true granite countertops, watch out for the term “cultured granite” as these may look like granite but come from man-made materials. Average cost: $40 to $100 per sq foot.

·         Pros: Durable, heat resistant, fairly scratch resistant.

·         Cons: Limited color selection, fairly porous, need to be sealed, can be expensive.

Quartz: Quartz is a man-made stone, which is a combination of natural quartz material, resin, polymers, and pigments. Average cost: $50 to $65 per sq. foot.

·         Pros: Wide variety of colors and patterns.  Looks similar to granite or porcelain, non-porous so stands up well to stains and easy to keep clean.

·         Cons: Not very heat resistant, does not have the same look as a natural stone, can fade with too much sun exposure.

Marble: Natural stone cut into large slabs from sources worldwide. Provides a luxurious look to any décor. Average cost: $40 to $100 per sq. foot.

·         Pros: Beautiful look, natural stone that when sealed and maintained properly can outlast other materials, fairly heat and scratch resistant, stays cool so is often a baker’s choice for rolling out pastry.

·         Cons: Some maintenance required, porous so can stain, softer stone so may scratch more easily than other surfaces, can be expensive so can be cost prohibitive for a lot of people.

Porcelain: Porcelain is a manufactured ceramic material that looks very similar to quartz or marble. Average cost: $45 to $65 per sq foot.

·         Pros: Affordability, extremely durable, heat resistant, non-porous, won’t fade, easy upkeep.

·         Cons: Selection, availability.

Butcher block: Natural surface, fairly “green” choice made of wood that can add natural warmth to your kitchen. Average cost: $20 to $70 per sq foot.

·         Pros: Affordability, sustainable choice, fairly durable, more easily repaired than other surfaces if it becomes damaged, beauty, many different styles available.

·         Cons: Wood is a fairly soft product compared to stone so may scratch or dent, must be maintained properly. If not sealed properly fairly porous and can harbor germs.

Laminate: Man-made material that offers lots of variety and is adhered to wood or other solid surface to make a countertop. Average cost: $15 to $40 per sq. foot.

·         Pros: Tons of patterns and colors to choose from, very affordable. Easy to keep clean.

·         Cons: Not heat resistant. Can fade, scratch, chip easily. Difficult to repair if damaged.

Note: Costs don’t necessarily include demo or installation charges.

As you can see, you’ll have many considerations when it comes to choosing a countertop. Even the cheapest options are still a big investment that can’t be changed easily, so take good notes and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions as you continue your research. I hope this info provides a good starting point. Please feel free to reach out to us at The Redesign Habit and ask questions or simply share a project that you are working on or have completed.

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