Designing or remodeling your home?

Choosing a material for your kitchen countertop is both an aesthetic and practical decision, with a wide array of options available, most fall into ten categories.

Your Design Concierge can help you arrive at the best solution based on your budget and style preferences.

1. Granite

A top choice for their elegant and timeless appeal, granite countertops are available in a wide variety of colors and types. While porous, granite is almost impervious to heat, and nearly maintenance-free when treated with sealers. Can crack if stressed, and knives will dull by cutting on their surface.

2. Soapstone

An alternative to granite, soapstone is a smooth natural stone usually in a dark gray color. Often seen in historic homes, soapstone eventually takes on an antique-like patina. Somewhat stain resistant, and damage can be sanded out. Must be treated with mineral oil.

3. Engineered Stone

Composed of 93 percent quartz particles, engineered stone combines the elegant look of stone with increased durability. Scratch, stain and heat-resistant, engineered stone countertops come in a wide range of colors, and are ideal for modern and contemporary kitchens. Can be custom-fabricated in any size and shape, and slabs are uniform with no imperfections. No sealing required.

4. Butcher Block

Made from straight cuts of wood glued together into thick slabs for a sturdy and stable work surface, butcher block countertops are ideal for cutting and chopping. Scratches and burns are easily repaired by sanding and mineral oil. Over time can be damaged by water and stains. Proper maintenance required to avoid bacteria and water damage.

5. Laminate

Laminate countertops are a low cost/maintenance option that can mimic the look of stone and solid surface. Not heat-resistant, susceptible to chips and scratches. Damage is almost impossible to repair.

6. Concrete

For a unique, industrial look, concrete countertops can be custom-cast in unusual shapes. Ground, polished or acid-stained to produce color, concrete can also be embedded with stones and other materials. Due to their heavy weight, concrete countertops are usually cast in place. Treatments and additives can help reduce cracking and porousness.

7. Solid Surface

Solid surface began with Corian®, but since the expiration of Dupont’s patent, other companies now offer this product. Mimicking granite, quartz, concrete and glass, solid surface is available in many colors and patterns. Unlike natural stone, solid surface countertops are non-porous, durable, easy to maintain, and require no sealing. A sleek modern look can be achieved with integrated sink/countertop units. Seams are virtually invisible and damage can be sanded out. Vulnerable to damage from heat.

8. Marble

With their unique veining, marble stone countertops are luxurious and elegant. Ideal for baking and rolling out dough due to their smooth and cool surface, marble is also waterproof and heatproof. Surfaces can scratch and are especially vulnerable to staining agents like wine, juice and oil that seep deep into the rock. Repairs are difficult.

9. Tile

With a wide range of colors and textures available, tile countertops can be customized in unique styles, adding charm to your kitchen. Tiles can crack and require grouting, but are immune to heat damage from hot pans. Grout lines can stain and are difficult to clean.

10. Stainless Steel

A stylish option for modern and contemporary kitchens, stainless steel countertops are durable and an easy-to-clean work surface. Can scratch easily and a bit noisy.

From luxe to low-maintenance, your design build team will help you complete your dream kitchen with the perfect countertop.

https://www.thespruce.com/top-kitchen-countertops-1977143

Photo: Ferguson (bos-dream-kitchens-ronald-alvarez)