How to Choose Countertops

Let’s talk countertops. First off, there are more options out there than ever before. How do you decide? Most of it will come down to personal preference and the home aesthetic you are going for. But besides the aesthetic, there is a lot to think about. Wear and tear, maintenance, and of course, cost. So, we have laid out a few details of some of the most popular countertops right now. 

Laminate

Okay, let's get basic here. Laminate is not for everyone, and it sometimes finds itself at the bottom of the totem pole. But let’s chat. Laminate is the most budget-friendly type of countertop you will find, and here’s why: It can’t hold up against heat or sharp knives, and it can’t be repaired if it’s damaged. But on the other hand, it is low maintenance, easy to clean, stain-resistant, and comes in tons of colors, patterns, and textures. 

Granite

Granite is an upgrade from laminate and probably the most common countertop surface. A natural stone product, you will find this in lots of colors and textures. This material can take the heat, knife marks, red Kool-Aid, and green slime from your 8-year-old. It’s highly resistant to chips and cracks but requires resealing about every 6-12 months. Overall, if you wanted to upgrade your kitchen but still stay within budget, this would be a great option. 

Marble

Marble is one of the most timeless and elegant materials you will find in a kitchen. However, if you tell someone you have marble countertops, you better make sure the rest of your home is matching your aesthetic. While marble is beautiful and will definitely make your neighbor gawk over your kitchen, it is higher maintenance than its counterparts. It can chip and scratch much easier than other materials, and it will most likely stain against that green slime your kiddo brought home. 

Butcher Block

Butcher block is making a comeback if you are going for a more modern feel in your kitchen. It gives off a warm and natural vibe. Butcher block is generally budget-friendly, cleans well with soap and water, and is low maintenance. While it can easily scratch, it is easy to repair. It will also need to be frequently disinfected as bacteria will hang out in the porous wood. The neat thing about butcher block is that you can mix and match with other types of countertops. Think marble countertops and a butcher block island. 

Concrete

Hello, industrial chic. Concrete countertops can be intimidating, and if not correctly installed, can be disastrous. Concrete isn’t heat resistant, will stain if it isn’t sealed frequently, small chips and cracks can develop over time, and you will probably need to install some support beams to hold these babies up.

Quartz

Quartz countertops are made from a hard mineral called quartz and is considered the most durable option for kitchens. Quartz countertops come in a variety of colors, often looking much like granite or marble.  But unlike its natural-stone slab lookalikes, quartz countertops are man-made.

While there are plenty of pros and cons to every surface, my advice is to lean on your budget and the overall design aesthetic you’re trying to achieve. One of the best things you can do is visit a countertop retailer and walk around. When I was building our own home, my mind was set on white marble or granite or quartz resembling classic white marble. However, after walking around the stone yard, I kept circling back to a black leathered granite.

Get out there, and pick your countertops with confidence.