Choosing which countertop material you want in your brand new kitchen is one of the many big and fun decisions you will make when remodeling. This is because not only are there plenty of options, but your countertop may take up a lot of visual real estate and can even be seen as the statement piece of your space.
How to Choose the Right Material for Your Kitchen
Choosing the right material for your kitchen may seem difficult, but there are a few things to keep in mind that may help make this a bit easier. You’ll want to consider your budget, how often you cook, how you utilize your countertops and the scope of work.
Kitchen countertop materials made of materials like quartz, quartzite, marble, granite, and more all have different looks and offer different features and durability. Knowing how much material you will need while taking into consideration, your budget will help you automatically narrow down your selection.
Each countertop material can also withstand a certain amount of durability. If you do a lot of cooking and tend to place things on your countertop quite harshly, choosing a durable and heat-resistant material will be better for your kitchen.
These are the 11 most popular kitchen countertop materials!
Kitchen Countertop Material Options
Take into consideration the entire design of your kitchen when selecting countertop material. Will the countertop complement the rest of the design of the backsplash, cabinetry, and flooring? These are just a few things to keep in mind.
1. Marble
Budget not a problem? Marble is a popular high-end kitchen countertop option. Marble is a natural stone where every sheet is unique. Although it is stunning, beware it can stain and scratch. You will need a professional, like us at Sea Pointe Design & Remodel Services, to install this. Make sure to see your sheet before it is installed as each piece is different in color and design.
However, on the plus side, marble countertops are waterproof, heatproof, can add to the real estate value, and is just gorgeous. This luxurious material will be sure to elevate the design of your kitchen space.
Related: 2022 Kitchen Cabinet Design Trends
2. Granite
Granite kitchen countertops is also another costly material, but for good reason. The pros of granite countertops are that it is nearly resistant to heat, super durable, gives a wide range of colors and designs to choose from, and is low maintenance.
A few cons of using granite as your kitchen countertop material is that you will need a professional to install it, slabs may have imperfections since it is a natural material, it can easily crack, and may require sealing to avoid stains.
If you are looking for an elegant kitchen design and are not worried about budget, granite offers that elegant style you may be looking for.
3. Butcher Block
Butcher blocks show off a pretty wood countertop design and come in a variety of colors and finishes. Maple and Oak are the most popular types to choose from for kitchen countertops. A few pros of installing a butcher block countertop is that it is easy to clean, can be sanded and resealed, and offers a charming farmhouse aesthetic.
A few cons are that wood can run on the higher end in budget, the surface can be cut when using knives, bacteria can build up if not cleaned well, and can be cracked if not maintained well.
4. Concrete
If you are aiming for an industrial kitchen design while looking for a durable material, a kitchen countertop made of concrete may be what you’re looking for. They are unique and tend to be cast right in your space.
Pros of using concrete as your countertop are that they are heat and scratch resistant, showcase a sophisticated or industrial style, and offer different textures. Cons about using concrete as your countertop material are that costs can be high in labor but are not as costly as marble.
5. Soapstone
Soapstone is a great natural stone option for your kitchen countertop if you are looking to make a bold statement. Soapstone usually shows off a dark gray color and can be used in a modern design for a contrasting look with white cabinetry.
Soapstone is also stain-resistant, and damage can basically be sanded out. However, the surface can scratch or dent, but this can go along with a more natural look anyway.
Trying to upgrade your kitchen design but don’t know where to start? Call our professional designers at (949) 861-3400 to help you today!
6. Laminate
Laminate countertops tend to be easy to clean because it is coated with plastic for a smooth surface. Laminate comes in a variety of colors, designs, and styles which is why it has gained popularity for those on a budget.
This is great if you are going for a retro kitchen design.
Because laminate is a popular older option, this may be not as attractive to any new home buyers when trying to resale. Also keep in mind that with laminate, the countertop can still be scratched and chipped.
Related: 2021 midsummer Kitchen Design Trends
7. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel countertops are a very niche design since it is perfect for a contemporary and industrial kitchen style. The good thing about stainless steel countertops is that it is heat-resistant and durable.
Stainless steel is also very easy to clean.
On the contrary, stainless-steel countertops can be noisy when putting pans and pots down, can be costly to fabricate and easily scratched. Just don’t use a knife on the surface!
8. Porcelain Slab
Going for a trendy or modern design? Incorporate a porcelain slab into your kitchen as your countertop. This style originating from Europe, show off an oversized porcelain slab that almost looks like natural stone and does not require as much maintenance, however can chip easily.
Porcelain is also a popular tile that is used as backsplash in kitchens. You can go for a modern look and create a seamless design.
Related: The 8 Best Timeless Kitchen Design Ideas of 2021
9. Glass
A kitchen countertop made of glass is great for a unique aesthetic. Glass countertops are available in a wide range of styles, tints, and textures. It can be customized, but this can get costly. When paired with other materials it does offer an elegant touch.
10. Quartzite
Quartzite is different than quartz. Quartzite is a natural stone that can be compared to marble, while quartz is combined with resin and other materials. Quartzite is more heat and scratch resistant compared to other natural materials and is known as “engineered quartz.”
Quartzite has increased in popularity over the years due to the elevated look it provides with the high-quality material.
Overall, choosing your countertop material for your kitchen remodel is an important but also very fun decision! Make sure to look at all your options and determine your budget, how much material you will need, and the style you would like to accomplish.
When you are ready to remodel your home, contact us at (949) 861-3400 and we will schedule your complimentary design consultation.