Picking the right countertop improves the style of your kitchen and serves as a functional workspace for meal preparation and entertaining. But selecting the perfect kitchen countertop can be a daunting task, especially given the wide array of materials and styles available.
In this video, Ask This Old House expert Richard Trethewey guides a homeowner through the process of choosing a kitchen countertop, showcasing various options and their unique characteristics. His guidance can help you find just the right pick for your home.
Kitchen Countertop Options
Before you pick a specific material, understand the range of countertop options available. Each material has advantages and considerations, so it’s all about finding what works for your kitchen style, budget, and daily needs.
Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops have been a staple in American kitchens for decades, thanks to their reliability and affordability. These counters are made from thin sheets of plastic laminate glued to a particleboard substrate, providing a durable and easy-to-clean surface.
Why go with laminate? Key features of laminate countertops include:
- Budget-friendly pricing
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Options mimic the appearance of stone
- Wide range of solid colors and patterns
While laminate was once known for its basic look, newer styles have stepped up the game with more refined designs that work well in a variety of kitchen styles.
Wood Countertops
If you’re after a warm, natural look, wood countertops offer a timeless appeal. Available in several hardwood species, including teak and maple, these counters bring a touch of rustic charm to your kitchen.
Some benefits of wood countertops are that they:
- Add warmth and character to your kitchen
- Can be sanded and refinished to remove scratches or stains
- Offer a renewable and eco-friendly option
- Work as a built-in cutting surface for food preparation
Keep in mind that wood countertops require regular maintenance. They don’t do well in wet areas like near sinks unless they’re sealed properly. With regular oiling and sealing, wood countertops can last for years.
Natural Stone Countertops
Natural stone countertops are popular in modern kitchens. These materials offer unparalleled beauty and durability, with each slab featuring one-of-a-kind patterns and colors.
Types of natural stone countertops include granite, marble, limestone, sandstone, slate, and soapstone. While natural stone countertops are highly desirable, they do require special care. These materials, especially marble, are porous. You’ll have to seal them regularly to prevent staining and help maintain their appearance.
Engineered Stone (Quartz) Countertops
If you love the look of natural stone but want a more low-maintenance option, engineered stone countertops, also known as quartz composites, are an excellent alternative. These countertops combine ground quartz with resins and pigments, resulting in a durable and non-porous surface that resists scratches and stains.
Why choose quartz? Some advantages of engineered stone countertops are that they’re:
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Extremely hard and resistant to scratches
- More stain-resistant than natural stone
- Easier to maintain than natural stone
Engineered stone countertops provide the sleek look of natural stone without the upkeep. The uniform appearance can be a plus if you want a more predictable, polished look in your kitchen.
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Countertop
There’s more to think about than just the style you’re after. When you’re selecting a kitchen countertop, you’ll want to balance practicality with aesthetics. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Cost
Countertop prices can vary significantly depending on the material and quality. We recommend setting a budget and exploring options within your price range. Remember to factor in installation costs, which can add substantially to the overall expense.
Durability and Maintenance
How much work are you willing to put into maintaining your countertops? Different countertop materials vary in their durability and maintenance requirements. For example, engineered stone and laminate require very little upkeep, while wood and natural stone need more care to keep them looking their best. Think about your lifestyle and how much time you want to spend maintaining your kitchen surfaces.
Functionality
Think about how you use your kitchen and pick a countertop material that aligns with your lifestyle. Do you need a durable surface for meal prep, or are aesthetics your top priority? For example, if you’re an avid baker, you might prefer a cool surface like marble for rolling out dough. Wood, on the other hand, offers a warm and easy-to-use prep surface.
Style and Design
Your countertop should complement your kitchen’s overall design and color scheme. Whether you’re going for sleek and modern or warm and traditional, think about how different materials and colors will work with your cabinets, flooring, and appliances.
Exploring Natural Stone Countertop Options
If you’re leaning towards natural stone countertops, it’s a good idea to see the materials in person before making a decision. Visiting a stone fabrication yard allows you to view full-size slabs and appreciate the unique characteristics of each piece. Here’s a closer look at two popular natural stone options.
Granite Countertops
Granite remains a popular choice for kitchen countertops because of its durability and natural beauty. Each slab of granite is unique, featuring distinctive veining and color variations.
Homeowners like granite countertops because they:
- Add value to a home
- Come in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Are extremely hard and resistant to scratches
- Offer heat-resistance
Marble Countertops
Marble countertops offer timeless elegance and have been prized for centuries. But marble is softer than granite, making it more susceptible to scratches and etching.
Here are a few things to keep in mind for marble countertops. They’re:
- Available in various colors, with white marble being particularly popular
- Calcium-based and more vulnerable to acid etching
- Classic and luxurious in appearance
Some fabricators now offer treatments to seal marble more effectively, helping extend its lifespan in the kitchen. This treatment involves heating the marble slab to open its pores, then applying a penetrating sealer that is evenly distributed and forced deep into the stone’s surface.
Making Your Final Decision on Your Countertop
With so many options, making a final choice can be tough. Here are a few tips to help you narrow it down:
- Bring samples of your favorite materials home to see how they look with your cabinets, lighting, and appliances.
- Consult with a kitchen designer or contractor for professional advice on the best options for your specific space and needs.
- Think about the long-term implications of your choice, including maintenance requirements and potential resale value.