Unsure which countertops to choose for your bathroom or kitchen remodel? Finding the best countertop for your bathroom or kitchen is vital for maintaining your home’s aesthetic, functionality and value. Star Lumber is here to compare the pros and cons of popular countertop materials and help you find the perfect fit for your Wichita home and budget.
Granite
Countertops come in a wide range of types and styles, but none are quite as classic as granite. Popular for their style and durability, granite countertops can last for decades.
Durability
In terms of durability, granite is one of the strongest countertops available. Granite is naturally heat resistant, allowing you to place hot pots and pans on the surface without any damage. Proper sealing and treatment can help granite resist chips, scratches and staining. This makes granite a great option for everyday use and perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.
Maintenance
You can maintain these beautiful, natural countertops fairly easily. Besides the occasional sealing, granite needs no continuous maintenance other than routine cleaning with a mild soap and water.
Style and Aesthetics
As a natural stone countertop, each piece of granite is different from the next. This makes granite distinct and unique, giving your space a personalized touch. Granite countertops also come in a variety of colors ranging from deep grays and muted browns to bold reds and blues.
Quartz
Engineered quartz is an increasingly popular option for new countertops. Quartz countertops are often favored for their modern appearance, non-porous surface and low maintenance durability, making them a great long-term choice.
Durability
Manufacturers typically make quartz countertops out of 90% natural quartz and additional synthetic materials to create a highly durable surface. After construction, manufacturers seal the quartz with resin to give it a non-porous finish. This resin finish makes the surface resistant to bacteria, water, chipping and scratching.
Maintenance
Quartz’s unique construction also makes it resistant to kitchen chemicals and substances, preventing staining. Additionally, homeowners can easily maintain quartz countertops by cleaning them with a mild soap and water.
Style and Aesthetics
Unlike many other natural stones, Quartz countertops offer a uniform appearance with the appearance of natural stone. By engineering quartz, manufacturers can add specific colors, patterns and styles to your countertop. This process provides consistent countertops that can mimic other styles and offers a touch of personalization.
Marble
Marble countertops are known for their sophisticated look and timeless elegance. These countertops appeal to those looking to add a luxurious feel to their home through a natural, authentic stone.
Durability
Compared to other natural stones, marble is less durable. However, there are several finishes that can help hide scratches or etchings and prevent staining. Both honed and leathered finishes help conceal scratches and etchings while sealants typically work to prevent staining. Keep in mind that these finishes don’t completely eliminate the risk of damage.
Maintenance
Routine maintenance with mild soaps will keep your marble countertop surfaces looking and performing their best. Use cutting boards or trivets to further prevent etching and additional damage. We suggest homeowners use marble in areas with less wear and tear. This makes marble countertops a great fit for bathroom remodels and vanities.
Style and Aesthetics
Marble countertops have a unique veining pattern many other stone countertop options can’t replicate. This is one reason why marble countertops are a popular choice for homeowners looking for more luxurious finishes and designs. Since people consider marble a high-end stone, these countertops can also increase your home’s value. In general, marble countertops are highly desired for their high-end nature, unique style and unmatched luxury.
Butcher Block
Butcher block countertops capture the warmth and natural charm of wood while also maintaining a high durability. These rustic and inviting countertops are an affordable and stylish alternative to stone materials.
Durability
Butcher block countertops offer solid durability with a budget-friendly price point. While still durable, wood countertops require more consistent maintenance since the wood is softer and less durable than stone. Proper sealing can help reduce the cuts and damage to the wood while making the wood more stain resistant.
Maintenance
It is recommended to wipe counters down with soap and water and treat them regularly with mineral oil to help prevent future damage. With all of these factors in mind, we suggest using a butcher block for specific areas such as kitchen islands and food prep areas.
Style and Aesthetics
Full of natural beauty and warmth, butcher block countertops add contrast and visual interest. These countertops also come in a range of textures matching the wood grain, adding depth and organic beauty to your kitchen. You can also choose from a variety of colors, wood types and finishes to help match your aesthetic.
Other Materials
Beyond the traditional countertop options are laminate, concrete, soapstone and even recycled glass. Each material has a unique style and appeal while separating it from other classic choices. Laminate countertops are cost-effective and can match almost any color or pattern. Concrete countertops are incredibly durable and stand out with an industrial style. Soapstone is a natural material that uses a matte finish and resembles other stone options. Lastly, recycled glass offers an eco-friendly option that resists stains and scratches while offering a unique mosaic appearance. It’s also important to remember that building supply stores may carry even more options like stainless steel or bamboo, helping you match any aesthetic or design.
Choosing the Right Countertop Material
From granite and quartz to butcher block and laminate, there are benefits for every type of countertop material. To make the best decision for your home, visit our Star Lumber showroom in Wichita to see countertop materials in person. Schedule a free consultation today and our experts will help you find the best countertop for your home.
