There are several countertop possibilities for kitchens, but ten materials account for the vast majority of counters in residential kitchens. Every substance has both good and bad qualities. Some materials are very durable, whilst others are easily scratched or damaged. Any kitchen may be made more beautiful by replacing a countertop that is scraped, burned, discolored, or just ugly.
There are several alternatives available at a variety of pricing. The price per square foot for a new laminate countertop may be as low as $5. Alternatively, you could buy recycled glass, quartz, or granite for easily ten times that amount. Seven out of the more than a dozen commonly used countertop varieties assessed by Consumer Reports passed the test.
Performance varied across materials in the countertop testing, but there wasn’t much of a difference between rival brands of each kind. Be careful to compare Best Kitchen Countertops Company Near Me prices whenever possible. See the numbered items below for further information on the benefits and drawbacks of each kind.
Various countertop materials for the kitchen
- Quartz
Quartz is a man-made stone made consisting of up to 93% quartz fragments and many other components. They are shaped into pieces and fortified with gums. These are not quarry-produced solid quartz slabs. It resembles stone in appearance while requiring less upkeep.
Cons
- Edges and edges might chip and need professional repair
- Rounded corners aid.
- Granite
Granite has been the material of choice for countertops without regard to cost for some time now. Granite defines kitchen elegance. Granite countertops enhance the appearance of even the most basic kitchens as opulent settings.
Granite has a long history of being a costly material, but as supplies have grown and engineered stone has gained popularity, the price has gradually decreased.
The natural stone’s individuality makes each slab special; expensive hues and veining add to the price. In our testing, heat, cuts, and scratches did not degrade granite. When properly sealed, polished and matte surfaces are resistant to most stains, so choose the appearance you desire.
Cons
- It is necessary to periodically reseal to prevent discoloration.
- Quartz edges and corners are susceptible to shattering and need expert repair.
- Marble and Soapstone
Marble is another natural stone widely used for kitchen surfaces. Because no two marble slabs are identical, each marble countertop will be unique. Marble is very expensive, so most kitchen countertops don’t have it all over. Typically, its opulent appearance is reserved for an island or portion of the countertop designated as a baking center.
Due to its tendency to discolor, marble may not be the greatest material for kitchen countertops, despite its high value. In addition to soapstone, there is another kind of natural stone with a dark grey hue and a silky, silky texture. As a granite substitute, it is now experiencing a revival. Soapstone is a popular choice for countertops and sinks in both antique and contemporary houses. Soapstone acquires an antique-like patina over time, which may be very beautiful in certain kitchen layouts.
Cons
- Stone is absorbent and rapidly stains without being sealed.
- These disadvantages are also inherent in limestone and marble, and heat might ruin your marble.
- Mineral oil must be applied.
- Laminate
The laminates that are examined are not harmed by stains or heat. Use a cutting board since laminate is easily and permanently damaged when cut straight on. It provides warmth and is simple to install and maintain, but the finish matters. Varnish enhances stain resistance, but penetrating oils decrease it. It is Economical, simple to install, and far more attractive than you may recall, due to improved printing technology and ornamental edges.
Cons
- Custom edging and backsplash treatments might add price.
- Scratches and dents are common but may be removed with sanding.
- Concrete Surfacing
It may be used for the countertops, sink, and backsplash and comes in a range of colors and designs. Its hue will also not differ much from the shop sample, just like quartz. Solid surfaces are stain-resistant and repairable for minor nicks and scratches.
Cons
- It’s easy to scratch and cut, so you need a cutting board.
- Restricted DIY configuration; should be made by professionals
- Recycled Glass
Massive fractures give it a lively, modern appearance, while finely powdered glass makes it seem less chaotic. The majority of the glass countertops we examined were resistant to stains, cuts, scratches, and heat.
Cons
- Only the Eco counters from Cosentino develop a tiny fracture in your heat testing.
Conclusion
Concrete may be a wonderful option for your worktops if you have countered with distinctive forms. Or if you want a genuinely unique kitchen. These concrete slabs, which may even be textured or stained with acid to give color, are not the same. They are not similar to the sidewalk concrete slabs that are often utilized.
