A Quick Guide to Kitchen Countertop Materials

There are dozens of options for kitchen countertops: from high-end marble, to budget-friendly laminate; warm and weathered butcher-block to industrial stainless steel. So what's the best option for your kitchen?

To help you choose the style with the form and function to meet your needs, we've put together a quick guide to kitchen countertop materials.

1. Granite. Perhaps the most popular kitchen countertop option, granite offers a polished, high-end look and lots of color options, and can be surprisingly affordable compared to higher end marble or engineered stone. The one downside to granite? It's porous and needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and discoloration.

2. Marble. Marble offers a clean, timeless look that pairs perfectly with contemporary kitchen design. Like granite, certain marbles, like Carrara, can actually be on the affordable end of materials since it is so widely available. Again, since marble is a natural and porous stone, it's prone to scratching and staining and needs to be treated with care.

3. Butcher block. Made of solid-wood, butcher block countertops are durable and hard-wearing. Though they do need to be sealed and oiled regularly, butcher block countertops can be refinished, making them long-lasting. They also offer design flexibility, since they can be stained to suit any space.

4. Tile. Tile is one of the least-expensive options for kitchen countertop materials, often coming in at a few dollars per square foot.  It's easy to clean and maintain, making a popular option for those looking to create a family-friendly space.

5. Engineered stone. Engineered stones like Silestone, Caesarstone, Quartz, and Icestone are quickly becoming the standard in kitchen countertops. Engineered materials offer a look similar to granite and marble, but are non-porous, making them easier to care for and more sanitary. Currently, engineered stone is among the more expensive options for kitchen countertops.

6. Stainless steel. Popular in industrial kitchens for their efficiency and low-maintenance, stainless steel countertops can be a great choice in residential spaces for the same reasons. Aesthetically, stainless steel compliments modern kitchens best.

7. Laminate. Laminate is a budget-friendly, easy-to-install option that comes in an almost endless number of styles, mimicking everything from tile to granite. Among the other benefits: it's easy to care for, and inexpensive to repair.

8. Concrete. Recently gaining popularity in modern and industrial design, concrete countertops offer a beautiful, functional alternative to stone. One of the top benefits of concrete countertops is that they can be custom-poured to incorporate things like drain boards, bowls, trivets, and built-in sinks.

To see samples of these countertops in person, or to discuss your kitchen renovation ideas, get in touch with Divine Design Build today!