The Top 5 Countertop Materials in Kitchens and Baths

Choosing a countertop material is one of the most exciting—and daunting—decisions a homeowner makes. Countertops, after all, are one of the top focal points of a kitchen (sometime they’re the focal point of the whole home!). Some countertop materials are naturally sourced from around the world while others are engineered. We’ve summarized the top 5 countertop materials for kitchens and baths based on our clients’ choices over the past few years.

1. Soapstone is composed of mineral talc and runs the spectrum of grays (with some slabs having a green tint). It withstands the test of time—and then some—lasting generations. Resistant to stains (no more spaghetti sauce woes!), heat, and bacteria, it’s not surprising why so many laboratories choose it for their Bunsen-burning experiments. Though durable, soapstone is softer than granite, which can lead to some wear along the edges and corners (some people like this, though!) of the counters. It’s on the pricier side, running about $90 per square foot, but its durability, soft soapy texture, and its resistance to heat, bacteria, and stains make it one of the most popular choices for kitchen countertop materials today.
   
2. Another popular natural stone counter is granite and with good reason. The sheer range of colors, finishes, and grains is dazzling. Think alabaster slabs with soft gray marbling or emerald green with chartreuse veins. Granite is mined from around the world, making each slab unlike any other in the world. Because granite comes from all over, prices can vary depending on the rarity of the color—anywhere from $50 to $65 per square foot. While durable, granite does require sealing periodically to prevent staining, especially for paler colors.
   
   
3. Quartz, though engineered, can look nearly identical to granite’s natural patterns (or not, if that’s your preference) and in just about any color you can think of. It’s non-porous and anti-bacterial, which is why it’s often used commercially, and it requires no sealing. While quartz is super durable, it’s also repairable should an accident occur. It’s a very heavy material, so you’ll absolutely need professionals to install it. Costs of quartz ranges anywhere between $80 to $105 per square foot.
   
4. Solid Surface kitchen counters are man-made materials like acrylic and polyester resins that can mimic natural stone without some of the cons that come with it. Solid surface countertops are also non-porous, making them resistant to stains and bacteria. One of its most unusual selling points is its seamlessness; because it’s man-made, it can be formed into shapes natural stone cannot. Think smooth transitions from countertop to backsplash. Unlike natural stone, solid surface countertops do not develop a patina over time, so what you see on day one is the same on day 101—as long as you don’t nick the surface with knives. Solid surfaces aren’t as durable when it comes to heat and scratches as natural stone. Solid surface countertops can range between $30 to $85 per square foot.
5. Butcherblock or wood countertops are a popular choice. They can last for decades when sealed properly. Its distinct warmth can’t be replicated or engineered, but there are some special measures that need to be taken to ensure it lasts. Special sealant for butcherblocks may include beeswax or oil to protect the wood, but hot pans should not be left on them and spills still need to be cleaned up fairly quickly to avoid damage. Depending on the species of wood, some butcherblock is more resistant to water than others, such as teak, oak, or mahogany. You can even look into waterproof varnish for butcherblock counters, especially if you’re thinking of using it in the bathroom. Think $30 to $85 per square foot.

When it comes to the range of pricing, it often depends on the specific color you choose, especially for granite. Ask us for help if you’re unsure which way you want to go. There’s always a chance if you look through enough samples at our showroom, you’ll fall in love with a pattern/color and the material won’t matter to you! Come into our store to see samples of all these countertops and more. Find us in downtown South Lyon.