Countertops 101: Materials and Costs Explained
When was the last time you replaced your kitchen countertop? If the answer to that question is more than 10 years ago, you might be surprised to learn all the ways that countertop trends have evolved in recent years.
Countertop materials are more varied than ever. As a homeowner, you have choices! Knowing your options, including their costs, pros and cons can help you choose the best countertops for your kitchen.
Here’s a look at the most popular counter materials in 2021:
Quartz Countertops
Cost range: $50 – $150 per square foot
It wasn’t that long ago when most homeowners had never heard of quartz countertops. Today, quartz is one of the most sought-after kitchen counter material available – and for good reason. Quartz is durable, affordable and available in a wide variety of patterns and colors.
This engineered material is made from crushed stone and resins mixed together to form the hardest, most scratch-resistant material found in kitchens. Homeowners also love quartz because it can be molded to take on the appearance of nearly any natural material, including marble and granite.
Want the look of a marble counter without the maintenance? White quartz countertops are your best bet. Seeking the beauty of a granite countertop, without the sealing to prevent staining? A granite look-alike quartz countertop is right for you.
Pros:
- No sealing required
- Very scratch and chip resistant
- Almost indistinguishable from natural stone counters
- Widely available from specialty counter suppliers, or stores like IKEA offer custom quartz options
Cons:
- Less affordable than DIY countertops
Granite Counters
Cost range: $75 – $100 per square foot
Once upon a time, granite was the high-end countertop material that all homeowners craved. They loved its durability, longevity and its beauty. Today, granite’s popularity has declined in favor of quartz countertops. Still, homeowners who are dedicated to natural stone counters tend to prefer granite because of its incredible hardness and scratch resistance.
Pros:
- Available in a range of patterns and colors
- Scratch-resistant
- Durable
Cons:
- Requires regular sealing to be protected from stains
Marble Kitchen Counters
Cost range: $65 – $95 per square foot
Marble is a lovely countertop material available in stunning colors and patterns. Its classic beauty is unparalleled. That said, marble has never been as popular as granite, probably because it’s a soft stone that can stain and scratch easily. You can prevent some of these problems by using trivets and hot pads, and by sealing your counters regularly. Families who are rough on their kitchens or have small kids often opt for an imitation marble-look quartz if they’re not prepared to maintain marble.
Pros:
- Timeless beauty
- Long-lasting when properly maintained
Cons:
- Susceptible to staining and scratching
- Regular sealing required
Butcher Block Kitchen Counter
Cost range: $75 – $150 per square foot
Butcher block a.k.a wood countertops have their own unique charm. They’re not as hard as stone, which some homeowners like (no noisy clinking sounds when glasses and plates are set down!).
On the other hand, wood can rot, so special care is needed to clean up any spills as soon as they happen. Wood also needs regular oiling to remain water-resistant. Over time, that oil leads to the development of a patina that some homeowners like and others dislike. In a farmhouse or coastal style kitchen, butcher block can be a huge hit, and can softens the harshness of all-white kitchen cabinets.
Pros:
- Unique appearance that can’t be replicated with other materials
- Soft surface that is not as loud as hard stone
- Wood is antimicrobial
- Scratches and stains can be sanded out
Cons:
- Can be stained by liquids
- May swell or shrink with changes in humidity
DIY Kitchen Countertops
Cost range: variable
Whether you’re making your own wooden counters, creating an epoxy countertop surface, or trying your hand at concrete countertops, there are many pros and cons to this kind of home improvement project.
Pros:
- Most cost-effective way to install a countertop
- Can be fun to install, if you enjoy DIY projects
Cons:
- Done incorrectly, DIY counters may not be as durable as commercially sold countertops
- Many people are not comfortable installing their own counters
- If the work is not done properly, it may not look like your dream counter
How to Choose Your Countertop Material
Before deciding which counters to install, you’ll have some things to consider. Doing research in advance can help.
Make a budget. If the material of your choice seems like more than you can afford, be prepared to shop around.
Visit a material supplier. Visiting a material store is a great way to find the look and product that appeals to you the most. It’s always helpful to see these materials in person, and take home a sample if you can!
Consider value, durability, maintenance. Be sure you’re prepared to perform maintenance on the countertop of your choice. Do not install a counter you’re not willing to care for.
With a little research, you can find the kitchen counter material that’s right for you, whether that’s solid surface countertop, a DIY, or the ever-popular quartz. Shop around! Be sure to see the materials you’re considering in person. Seeing the materials up close will give you a much better sense of how you’ll feel about those countertops if you decide to install them in your home.
