The kitchen countertop is one of the more significant features of a kitchen. Most cooking or food preparation activities are done on countertops. It should be resilient enough to withstand scratches, spills and stains and even the weight of food processors, coffeemakers and many other kitchen equipment. Kitchen countertops are as visible as the cabinetry as both usually occupy the same amount of space. Countertops should likewise complement the overall design and style of the kitchen. There are a variety of materials available for kitchen countertops.

1. Granite - This natural stone is one of the most elegant and most popular kitchen design. Though it is comparatively more expensive than other materials, it is one of the most durable because of its innate hardness. Granite is vulnerable to moisture and requires periodic sealing, but it does have a holds up well to heat and pressure. The disadvantage of granite is the limitation on color choices. It is organic and options are limited to what natural supply is available. Colors and patterns may also be inconsistent which makes it advisable to check the actual stock available in a supplier’s warehouse as it may vary significantly from that of the samples.

2. Quartz - Quartz looks almost similar to granite, except that it comes either as a natural stone or engineered. Engineered quartz is considered more versatile because of the color options. It is just as hard as granite, but with the added advantage of being non-porous which makes it more resistant to moisture, stains, and bacteria. Unlike granite, there is no need to apply any sealant to quartz countertops.

3. Solid Surface - Living up to its name, solid surfaces are hard and sturdy. Though they are not scratch and stain-resistant, sanding can basically take care of any minor defacement. Designs and colors are likewise quite extensive. However, it cannot stand up to heat which make trivets a necessity in a kitchen with this type of counters.

4. Laminate - Like its flooring counterpart, laminate is an inexpensive countertop option. It is composed of a plastic, paper or melamine backing layer, the core or fiberboard which stiffens and strengthens it and finally, a third layer which is a photographic image of any natural material possible from hardwood to natural stone. This material is unfortunately vulnerable to water stains, chipping, scratches and burns and must be replaced when damaged.

5. Ceramic Tile - Apart from hand-painted or terra cotta tiles, ceramic tiles are the most affordable and easiest to maintain of all countertop options. Another advantage of choosing ceramic tiles is the variety of designs that these come in. Mosaics can even be created allowing a kitchen to look truly unique. One of the disadvantages of ceramic tile is that it is prone to chipping. Stains may also collect on the grouting between each tile if left unsealed.

6. Concrete - Concrete is one option that can work well with an unusually-shaped kitchen concept. This is a versatile material because any color can be applied to it as well as any decorative ornament like colored stones or shells. Concrete surfaces, however, can fracture and will require regular sealing for proper maintenance.

7. Stainless Steel - Using stainless steel countertops give a sleek, modern look to your kitchen. These are very durable, resistant to heat, and easy to clean. Stainless steel surfaces are unfortunately likely to dent and scratch.

It can be confusing to decide the right one for your kitchen with all these options. All these options can make it difficult to make a choice. To make it easier, set your priorities and evaluate which one would work well to the needs of your home, fit in your budget, and durable enough for the way it will be used.

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