decision time
decision time
The toughest part of the kitchen counter decision may be figuring out what you care about most. Durability? A unique look? Color? Price? Here’s a look at some of the most common options, with an assessment of their quality from designers, manufacturers and the website www.kitchen.com.
Concrete
Pros: Modern, industrial look. Can be made in any shape and in a variety of colors.
Cons: Can stain and crack, though that also may be an appeal. Relatively expensive. May need a sealer and wax applied periodically to protect against staining.
Granite
Pros: Huge range of colors and prices. Durable. Stain- and heat-resistant, though some sealers commonly used to combat its porous qualities can be damaged by excessive heat.
Cons: Some designers say it has become overused.
Tile
Pros: Budget-friendly. Unlimited color and pattern choices. Durable, heat- and stain-resistant.
Cons: Grout can stain and be tough to clean. Not a smooth surface for some cooking tasks.
Glass
Pros: Looks new and modern. Can be made in many colors, patterns and shapes. Translucent qualities enable natural light to pass through. Nonporous, heat-resistant, easy to clean. Can be made from recycled glass.
Cons: Shows fingerprints. Can crack or break.
Marble
Pros: Classic looks. Sometimes has translucent quality. Great for making and rolling pastry dough because it’s cool to the touch.
Cons: Can stain.
Laminates
Pros: Huge range of colors, patterns and finishes. Budget-friendly. Easy to maintain.
Cons: Chips can be difficult to repair.
Engineered quartz
Pros: Extremely tough. Dozens of colors and patterns. Easy to clean. Consistent color and detail. Many manufacturers. Considered more sustainable, as remnants often can be recycled.
Cons: Lacks unique colorations and details found in marble or granite.
Stainless steel
Pros: Durable. Stain-resistant. Looks like a professional kitchen.
Cons: Can show fingerprints and scratch.
Wood
Pros: Can be used as a chopping board.
Cons: Shows knife marks. Susceptible to water damage. Requires periodic reoiling.
Other natural stone
Pros: Slate, soapstone, quartzite, lava stone and others can provide a variety of looks.
Cons: Depending on the rarity, it can be expensive.
Solid surfaces
Pros: Products come in a variety of shapes, colors and finishes. Non-porous, low-maintenance. Can be made into a seamless piece.
Cons: Can be stained or scratched, though marks can be repaired, sometimes with just an abrasive cleaner.