The kitchen countertop you choose has a big impact on the space’s overall look and feel, as well as your budget. There’s a wide range of material options with an even wider range in cost. This guide covers popular countertop material options, their price points, pros and cons, and other factors to keep in mind when choosing which is best for your kitchen.
Popular Countertop Materials
Your countertop options typically fit into one of these three buckets.
Natural Stone Options
Natural stone countertops such as granite, marble, and soapstone offer timeless beauty and durability.
- Granite: Known for its striking patterns and heat resistance
- Marble: Prized for its elegant veining but requires more maintenance
- Soapstone: Offers a unique, soft texture and natural heat resistance
You can get each type of stone in various colors, patterns, and textures. Natural stone countertops typically start at $40* per square foot and can go up to $200 or more for high-end options.
*Prices in this article are averaged from Angi data.
Engineered Stone Choices
Engineered stone countertops combine the beauty of natural stone with enhanced durability and lower price tags. You can choose from quartz, which is made from crushed quartz crystals mixed with resins and pigments, or solid surfaces that are a blend of acrylic and polyester materials.
These options offer consistent patterns, low maintenance, and a wide range of colors. Prices for engineered stone countertops start around $20 per square foot for solid surface and $55 per square foot for quartz.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
For those on a tighter budget, you have several affordable options:
- Laminate: Averaging $35 per square foot, laminate comes in many colors and patterns.
- Ceramic tile: Averaging $28 per square foot, tile provides endless customization possibilities.
- Butcher block: At around $75 per square foot, wood countertops add warmth to a kitchen.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Countertops
Think about how your household and family function when choosing a material. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Durability and Maintenance
Assess how well the material withstands daily use, heat, and stains. Some materials, such as granite and quartz, are highly durable and need little maintenance. Others, such as marble and wood, may need more frequent sealing or special care.
Cost and Budget
Countertop prices vary widely, from as little as $15 to as much as $350 per square foot. Factor in not just the material cost but also installation fees, which cost an average of $75 per square foot.
Aesthetic and Design Versatility
Your countertop should complement your kitchen’s overall design. Consider color, pattern, and texture when making your selection. Some materials, such as natural stone, offer unique variations, while engineered options provide more consistent appearances. Material versatility allows you to match countertops with cabinetry, flooring, and other kitchen elements to create a cohesive look.
Comparing Top Countertop Materials
Here’s how some of the most popular choices compare.
Granite vs. Quartz
Granite is beautiful and heat-resistant but requires periodic sealing. Quartz, on the other hand, is non-porous, more consistent in appearance, and requires less maintenance. Both materials are durable and start at similar price points, with quartz averaging slightly cheaper.
Laminate vs. Solid Surface
Laminate is the most budget-friendly option, starting at around $20 per square foot. It offers a wide range of colors and patterns but can chip or scratch. Solid-surface countertops, starting at $45 per square foot, provide seamless installation and are repairable but can be damaged by heat.
Wood vs. Stainless Steel
Wood countertops, starting at $35 per square foot, add warmth and are gentle on dishware but require regular maintenance. Stainless steel, starting at $80 per square foot, offers a sleek, modern look and is heat-resistant but can scratch easily and amplify kitchen noise.
Concrete vs. Marble
Concrete countertops, starting at $70 per square foot, have an industrial look and can be custom-formed for unique designs. They are durable but require sealing to prevent staining. Marble, starting around $45 per square foot, exudes luxury with its sleek, polished look but demands more maintenance because of its porous nature and susceptibility to scratches and stains.
Installation and Customization
Countertop installation methods vary depending on the material you choose.
DIY-Friendly Options
Some materials, such as laminate and ceramic tile, are suitable for DIY installation. Wood countertops can also be a DIY project for those with woodworking skills. DIY installation can help reduce overall costs.
Professional Installation Considerations
Natural stone, engineered stone, and some specialty materials typically require professional installation. This ensures proper fitting, sealing, and finishing, which are crucial for the longevity and appearance of your countertops.
Maintenance Tips for Different Countertop Materials
Proper maintenance keeps your countertops clean and in good condition.
Cleaning and Care for Natural Stone
Clean natural stone countertops regularly with mild soap and water. Avoid acidic cleaners, which can etch the surface. Seal granite and marble annually to maintain their resistance to stains and etching.
Preserving Engineered Surfaces
Engineered surfaces such as quartz and solid surfaces are low-maintenance. Clean with soap and water or nonabrasive cleaners. Avoid excessive heat and harsh chemicals to prevent damage.
Upkeep for Budget-Friendly Options
For laminate, use mild cleaners and avoid abrasive materials. You need to regularly oil wood countertops to maintain their appearance and water resistance. You may need to periodically reseal ceramic tile grout to prevent staining.
Concrete Countertops
You should clean concrete countertops with a pH-neutral cleaner to avoid damaging the sealant. Regular sealing will protect against stains and moisture. Polish the surface occasionally to maintain its smooth finish. Avoid placing extremely hot objects directly on the countertop to prevent damage.
