Everything You Need to Know About Common Countertop Material Types

There are plenty of options when it comes to kitchen countertop materials. While the way your countertops look is an important aspect, there are many other factors to consider as well. Your budget always plays a big part in decision making.

You should also think about what you may be using your countertops for. Someone who does a lot of cooking may need something more durable and heat resistant. A homeowner who prefers to order take out may opt for something more visually appealing but less durable.

Check out the pros and cons of the following countertop material types to help you decide which option is best for you.

Cultured Marble

• Moderately priced
• Highly heat resistant, can handle hot pans on surface
• Scratchable and affected by harsh chemicals due to soft surface
• Can be a bit more difficult to clean and maintain
• All stains should be wiped up quickly
• Requires resealing about once a year

Granite and Natural Stone

• Slightly higher price range than other surfaces
• Visually appealing
• Plenty of variations available including unique grains, colors, and customizable finishes
• Highly heat and scratch resistant
• Unaffected by harsh chemicals
• One of the most durable countertop options when properly sealed

Laminate

• One of the most budget-friendly countertop options
• Somewhat stain resistant
• Can scratch and scorch and may not be ideal for heavy-duty cooks
• Be sure to use cutting boards as knives can ruin the finish
• Can be more difficult to clean and maintain
• Only heat resistant to 150 degrees
• Available in a wide variety of colors

Quartz

• One of the higher-priced countertop options
• Somewhat heat resistant, but can scorch
• Scratch resistant and unaffected by most chemicals
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Practically maintenance free
• Wide range of colors available

Solid Surface

• Medium price range
• Can scratch easily but can be repaired
• Will melt when exposed to high heat
• Not as easy to clean and maintain
• Comes in a variety of colors and can emulate stone, wood, or plastic
• Durable

Wood

• Moderately priced
• Visually warm and welcoming feel
• Long-lasting
• Several species of wood to choose from
• Highly heat resistant
• Scratches can be buffed out or add to an aged wood look

If you are planning on upgrading your countertops, Blue Water Kitchens & More can help. Be sure to stop by our showroom in Lakeport to see samples of all our countertop materials. Give us a call at 810-385-8791 for more information.