With so many countertop materials on the market, choosing which one is for your kitchen can be challenging. So, before buying your countertop materials, make sure you know the pros and cons of each one of them. Understanding differences between the most common countertop materials are essential in making an informed choice. This article compares different countertop materials to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
Granite Countertops
Granite countertops deliver unique beauty, especially since it’s a natural material with an ageless aura and aesthetic appeal. If you choose the right color and shape, a granite countertop will become the centerpiece of your kitchen. Fortunately, a granite countertop comes in over 20 different shades.
But if your granite countertop isn’t sealed correctly or the sealant abates without resealing, it will become porous, absorbing liquids that spill on it. If you spill wine or juice on your porous granite, it will develop stains.
Stone Countertops
Stone countertops are countertops carved from large stone slabs. They’re considered among the best kitchen countertops because of their durability and versatility. They also feature beautiful designs and can easily be customized to suit different kitchen décor needs. They can quickly increase your home’s value, especially if you wish to resell it. However, stone countertops can be costly and must be adequately sealed to avoid scratches and stains.
Engineered Stone Countertops
Also referred to as quartz countertops, engineered stone countertops are composite materials made with crushed quartz stones. These quartz crystals are held together by an adhesive or a resin binder to create a strong stone slab. These countertops look the same as natural stones, but their colors and patterns are much more even than natural stones.
Their variations in colors and patterns make them great for kitchen countertops because you can find the colors and patterns you need for your home décor. They’re also nonporous and antifungal, making them perfect for residential and commercial applications. Unfortunately, engineered stone countertops aren’t heat resistant, so they’ll be damaged by hot pans and pots.
Concrete Countertops
A concrete countertop is purely made of concrete. It’s customizable, durable, and easy to maintain. It’s also heat resistant. However, it’s costly to install, so you might end up paying more.