Countertops

There are many options when it comes to countertops. From laminate to polished marble and many options in between. We have listed several of the most popular choices below. At the bottom of the page is an at-a-glance chart comparing these options. Click the manufacturer’s logos for more information.

Natural Stone

Granite is the most used stone for kitchen countertops. Granite is composed mainly of feldspar and quartz. Some granite colors offer extensive veining and movement in it’s pattern. Marble, while offering unsurpassed beauty and elegance, is a softer material than granite or quartz. It is recommended for areas that are not used for food preparation.

Quartz (Engineered Stone)

Most engineered stone is made from crushed quartz with an epoxy filler. Color and pattern movement beautifully mimic natural stone, and since it is made from quartz, it is harder than granite. It is also less porous and never needs sealing.

Solid Surface

Although Corian is the name most people associate with solid surface tops, there are many different manufacturers of solid surface products. Available in many different colors and patterns, solid surface tops have invisible seams and excellent reparability. The drawbacks are they can scratch and are more susceptible to heat damage.

Wood

Typically used as a cutting or prep surface, wood tops are not recommended for use through-out a kitchen. Maple is the most-commonly wood, with walnut a close second. Island countertops are a perfect choice for wood. Wood tops also need to sealed periodically with mineral oil.

Material	Repair	Durability	Heat	Cost	Comments
Natural Stone	★★	★★★★	★★★★	★★★★	Unique Patterns, very heat resistant
Engineered Stone	★★	★★★★★	★★★★★	★★★★★	Natural patterns, very heat resistant
Solid Surfaces	★★★★★	★★★	★★	★★★★★	Scratches easily, but simple to repair
Wood	★★★★	★★★	★	★★★	Classic, great for island or workspace