Nothing beats the look of a beautifully remodeled kitchen, equipped with the perfect stovetop, ambient under-cabinet lighting, and a fresh backsplash. But what really makes your kitchen pop are the countertops. You may be wondering, “What are the best countertop materials for my unique kitchen style?”
After all, with SO. MANY. OPTIONS to choose from, how do you know which one will fit your home and lifestyle needs the best?
If you’re hunting for the high-quality countertop materials for your kitchen, then you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will show you:
- Top 9 best countertop materials for kitchens
- How much they cost
- What their functionality is
- How each material will fit into your unique style
Whether you’re on a mission to renovate your kitchen or build a brand new one, it’s no secret that the countertop material you choose is absolutely essential. Let’s get started!
What To Look For When Shopping for Kitchen Countertops
Obviously, you want to find countertops that look good. However, aesthetics are just one piece of the puzzle. Your kitchen is more than just another room. It is one of the most used (and loved!) spaces in your home.
You chop, sizzle, fry, and bake in your kitchen. Not to mention, it’s a place for friends and family to gather around and spend time together. Your kitchen countertops will receive a lot of love over the years, which means you want to make sure the material they are made out of can last the tale of time.
When shopping for the best countertop materials, consider 3 key factors:
- Durability & Functionality: Can they handle the day-to-day activities of your household?
- Visual appeal: Do they match the style of your home?
- Maintenance: How easy are they to clean and maintain?
The answers to these questions widely depend on the lifestyle needs of your family. Before you choose a countertop material, make sure it is right for YOU!
Top 9 Best Countertop Materials for Kitchens
Now, let’s dive into the 9 best countertop materials for every kitchen style. We’ll start off strong with a fan favorite, quartz.
1. Quartz Countertops
Searching for impressive durability and low maintenance? Look no further than quartz countertops. Quartz is a popular choice among homeowners because they are easy to care for and they have a wide range of aesthetic options.
These countertops are engineered stone made from crushed quartz and resin, which makes them incredibly scratch, stain, and heat resistant. Their non-porous nature means they don’t require sealing and resist mold, mildew, and stains.
As an added bonus, quartz comes in many colors and patterns, often mimicking natural stone countertops.
Cost & Best Use:
For a 10 ft by 25 ft area, quartz countertops typically cost between $2,500 and $5,000, making them an affordable option compared to high-end materials like marble.
Quartz countertops are perfect for busy kitchens and bathrooms due to their hygienic properties and ease of cleaning. They suit contemporary spaces that benefit from a seamless appearance, combining both style and functionality.
2. Granite Countertops
Of course, we had to add granite to the list of best countertop materials for kitchens. What can compare to the classic look of a granite kitchen counter?
Similar to quartz, granite countertops are known for their durability and heat resistance. Furthermore, they offer unique naturally occurring patterns, with each slab showing a distinct look and personality. If you’re looking for a statement, granite will give it to you!
Granite resists scratching and chipping, but requires regular sealing to prevent staining, especially from red liquids.
Cost & Best Use:
Granite countertops for a 10 ft by 25 ft area generally range from $3,000 to $6,000. Despite the higher initial cost, granite adds significant home value.
Do you love to cook a lot? Granite is ideal for kitchens with high cooking activity since it can withstand heat and moisture, making them favored by chefs and cooking enthusiasts.
3. Marble Countertops
One word: Luxury.
Marble countertops are the epitome of timeless elegance, featuring unique veining patterns and a luxurious appearance. They are heat proof and waterproof. However, due to the porous nature of marble, these countertops require regular maintenance to prevent staining and scratching.
But let’s face it, a little extra elbow grease to have immaculate marble countertops in your kitchen is totally worth it.
Cost & Best Use:
Marble countertops typically cost between $4,000 and $7,500 for a 10 ft by 25 ft area. But, don’t let the price tag intimidate you. Their timeless elegance justifies the investment.
Best suited for kitchens with less frequent use, marble countertops add sophistication where aesthetics are prioritized over everyday wear. If you choose marble countertops, be sure to use an expert kitchen remodeler to help you pick the highest quality marble for your kitchen.
4. Solid Surface Countertops
Moving on to the next item on our best countertop materials guide is none other than solid surface countertops.
Solid surface countertops, like Corian, offer a seamless and customizable appearance. They mimic natural stone countertops such as granite and marble while providing a uniform, non-porous surface that is easy to maintain and repair.
Unlike marble and granite, solid surface countertops are typically made from a mixture of acrylic resins and other naturally occurring minerals.
Cost & Best Use:
Typically ranging from $2,000 to $4,500 for a 10 ft by 25 ft area, solid surface countertops are an affordable middle-tier option.
Solid surface countertops are strong and non porous. This makes them ideal for modern kitchens that are frequently used. They also work well on kitchen islands or pantries.
5. Butcher Block Countertops
Do you have a home style that blends together a warm, rustic aesthetic? If so, you are going to love butcher block countertops.
Made from strips of wood bonded together, butcher block countertops add a rich, oaky feel to your home. However, you can also find this style in coastal themes, where blues and whites mesh well with the browns in the butcher block countertop.
Furthermore, butcher block countertops are highly functional for food preparation. They are popular in farmhouse-style kitchens.
Cost & Best Use:
When it comes to butcher block, prices typically range from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on wood type and finish.
Great for rustic or farmhouse kitchens, butcher block countertops double as cutting boards and are practical for food prep.
6. Laminate Countertops
If affordability and easy maintenance is what you’re after, then laminate countertops are for you. These countertops are popular because they are lightweight, easy to clean, and are available in various colors and patterns.
However, laminate countertops are susceptible to scratches and heat damage.
Cost & Best Use:
On a budget? Then you will love this. Laminate countertops cost between $800 and $2,000 for a 10 ft by 25 ft area.
Suitable for budget-conscious renovations and rental properties, laminate countertops are a great option for many homeowners. However, this material is not recommended for active kitchens due to vulnerability to damage.
7. Concrete Countertops
Next on our list of best countertop materials for kitchens are concrete counters.
Think: Modern industrial.
Concrete countertops offer a super cool look and feel to modern homes. Plus, they offer durability and heat resistance. They are highly customizable but prone to stains and require regular sealing.
Cost & Best Use:
In general, concrete countertops cost between $70 and $150 per square foot, depending on customization.
They are ideal for modern kitchens seeking a unique industrial vibe, but maintenance is necessary to preserve appearance.
8. Stainless Steel Countertops
Another modern contemporary classic is stainless steel.
Known for their sleek, reflective surface, stainless steel countertops are heat resistant, non-porous, and extremely durable, making them ideal for heavy cooking and food prep areas. These countertops are a popular choice for those seeking a modern aesthetic combined with professional-grade durability.
Stainless steel countertops are also highly sanitary, as their smooth surface resists bacteria and is easy to clean with mild soap and water.
Cost & Best Use:
If you’re interested in stainless steel countertops, you can expect their costs to range from $70 to $150 per square foot, depending on thickness and customization.
They are perfect for contemporary kitchens, industrial-style spaces, or anyone looking for a hygienic, low maintenance option. However, stainless steel can be easily scratched and dented, so using cutting boards and avoiding impacts is recommended.
Stainless steel countertops typically require professional installation due to the material’s weight and need for precise fitting. Be sure to partner with a trusted custom kitchen remodeler to help you install these gorgeous countertops.
9. Recycled Glass Countertops
Is art deco calling your name? Or maybe you just want an absolute show-stopper and conversation starter. Let us introduce you to recycled glass countertops!
These unique countertops provide an eye-catching, eco-friendly option for your kitchen. Made from recycled materials bound with resin or cement, recycled glass countertops offer a distinctive look with various colors and patterns. Plus, they are stain resistant and durable.
Cost & Best Use:
Pricing varies but is generally competitive with other premium countertop options. You can expect to see prices range from $60 to $155 per square foot.
These colorful countertops are ideal for homeowners seeking sustainable countertop materials that add a modern aesthetic and a unique flair to their home.
Custom Install The Best Countertop Materials in Your Kitchen
Ready to transform your kitchen with the best countertop materials for you?
Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of marble countertops, the durability of quartz, or the rustic charm of butcher block countertops, you can make your dream kitchen a reality with Ace Home Remodeling. Our expert team ensures precise countertop installation and exceptional craftsmanship.
Need more advice on the best countertop materials for your kitchen? Contact our kitchen remodel experts at Ace Home Remodeling! Our team is ready to help you make an informed decision for your dream kitchen.
Contact Ace Home Remodeling for a free estimate today to get started on your kitchen remodel.