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What is best kitchen countertop material


Top 10 Materials for Kitchen Countertops

There are lots of countertop options on the market for kitchen countertops, but 10 materials comprise the majority of countertops in residential kitchens. They include granite, marble, quartz, and more. Each material has its positive and negative aspects. For instance, some are very strong while others can be scratched or marred. And some materials cost a lot more than others.

Pros and Cons of the Top Kitchen Counter Surfaces

Here are the pros and cons of 10 types of kitchen countertops.

Choose Countertops That Match Your Kitchen Colors

Ranking Countertop Materials

Choosing the right kitchen countertop material involves a great deal of simple personal preference—deciding what type of "look" appeals to you. But there are also objective criteria you can use to choose a countertop material that's likely to work best for your needs.

The most important criteria for evaluation countertop materials are:

Ratings Summary

This rating system attempts to give equal value to each of the five criteria above, compiled from a broad sampling of user reviews and responses toward each countertop material.

With each of the five criteria equally weighed on a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being best), our rankings for 10 popular countertop materials are:

 

Reclaimed Wood: Most Eco-Friendly Choice

Reclaimed wood countertops are slabs made from hardwoods recycled from other uses, such as commercial bowling alleys, barns, or residential flooring. For homeowners concerned about the environment, reclaimed wood offers obvious appeal.

Jacek Kadaj / Getty Images

Appearance

Reclaimed wood can take many appearances, depending on the source of the wood and its species. These are usually quite attractive countertops made of good-quality hardwoods. These countertops can get nicked, scratched, and scuffed quickly, but for some homeowners, this antique appeal is a plus.

Rating: 3.5.

Value

Though ostensibly "wood that no one wants," reclaimed wood isn't cheap. The companies that find it, re-mill it, and sell it do need to make a profit for their specialized work. Installation is normally done by specialists from the fabrication company; this is not a DIY-friendly material. Typical costs are $115 to $300 per square foot, installed.

Rating: 3.0.

Stain Resistance

You need to keep wood counters sealed. This is not difficult to do, but it must be done with religious frequency. Forget to do it, and you may find that red beets stain your counters a rich purple color.

Rating: 2.0.

Heat Resistance

Reclaimed wood has excellent heat resistance. Hot pots and skillets rarely discolor or scorch reclaimed wood.

Rating: 4.0.

Resale Value

While some home buyers may very much like the classic look and "green" appeal of using reclaimed wood, most home buyers see reclaimed wood as a second-class countertop material. These countertops will do nothing to improve the real estate value of your home.

Rating: 1.0.

Bottom Line

Reclaimed wood falls toward the lower end of the countertop ratings, at 2.7 out of a possible 5.0 rating. Choose reclaimed wood if you put a high priority on green building materials, not to improve real estate value.

Concrete: Urban and Contemporary

If you've got a stylish, modern house, you can do no better than to install a concrete countertop in the kitchen. While these monolithic beauties would look odd in a period house, they fit perfectly well into any contemporary kitchen. Yet, surprisingly enough, concrete can be finicky when used for countertops.

Jacek Kadaj / Getty Images

Appearance

Concrete can become whatever you want it to be. With tinting, it can take on a number of muted, earthen colors, as well as some darker reds, blues, and greens. But its chief value—and the one thing that distinguishes concrete from other counter materials—is that you can have a single, unified, seamless counter. In a single pour, concrete can form L shapes, U shapes, and all sorts of permutations.

Rating: 4.0.

Value

Considering that concrete itself is pretty inexpensive, homeowners are often surprised to learn how expensive concrete countertops are. That's because concrete countertops are difficult to fabricate and require special concrete mixes. They must be installed by skilled pros—usually from the same team who fabricates the countertop. Typical costs range from $70 to $140 per square foot, installed.

Rating: 2.0.

Stain Resistance

Concrete can stain quite easily unless it is regularly sealed. Acidic foods and liquids, as well as cleaning chemicals, need to be wiped off immediately or they will stain the surface.

Rating: 2.0.

Heat Resistance

With concrete, you'll still need to use trivets or pads before setting down hot pans. Concrete surfaces can show scorch marks fairly easily.

Rating: 3.0.

Resale Value

Hopefully, the entire contemporary style of your house is congruent with those concrete counters, and the buyers' minds are congruent with your house's contemporary style. If so, there is a possibility they may love the counters. If not, they may hate them.

Rating: 2.5.

Bottom Line

Concrete countertops can be a good choice in very particular situations but may be too unusual for many people. They earn a rating of 2.7 out of 5.00.

Zinc

Zinc is the most common metal on earth but is fairly uncommon as a countertop material. For the right homeowner, it has a hip trendy appeal, reminiscent of the zinc countertops found in Paris bistros. For other homeowners, it may seem a bit too unique.

Brooks Custom, Mt. Kisco, NY

Appearance

Zinc has a dark gray matte finish that is much different than the bright silver shininess of stainless steel. Homeowners seeking something unique may very much like this look; others may actively dislike it. Zinc is a relatively soft metal, and it may scratch. Some homeowners like the aged patina that zinc develops over time.

Rating: 3. 0.

Value

Being a specialty countertop, zinc is expensive. You buy zinc because you like it, not because you want to save money. Zinc costs $150 to $200 per square foot, installed.

Rating: 2.0.

Stain Resistance

Zinc will eventually develop a dark patina, and should vinegar come in contact with it, dark spots will develop.

Rating: 2.0.

Heat Resistance

As a metal, zinc is unsurpassed at resisting scorch marks and discoloration from hot pans and skillets.

Rating: 5.0.

Resale Value

A few potential buyers will be charmed by zinc countertops, but those unaware of its history may find it less appealing.

Rating: 2.0.

Bottom Line

Zinc earns an overall rating of 2.8 out of 5.0, placing in the lower half of countertop materials. Still, in kitchens with a certain period decor, zinc can be a conversation starter.

Ceramic or Porcelain Tile: the Best DIY Choice

While excellent for backsplashes, ceramic or porcelain tiles have a major drawback for countertops: The grout lines between tiles are very hard to keep clean. The major selling point for tile countertops is that they are relatively easy for DIYers to install themselves.

msistone.com

Appearance

Tile surfaces themselves can be very attractive, but the presence of the many seams in a tile countertop is a big turn-off to anyone who cooks. Not only is the uneven texture of a tile surface problematic, but the grout lines can make cleanup a nightmare.

Rating: 1.0.

Value

Prices can vary quite a lot, but standard white tile countertops can be built for just pennies per square foot. And because tile countertops are a very easy DIY project, this material earns a top rating for cost. The typical costs for tile countertops range from $18 to $35 per square foot, installed.

Rating: 5.0.

Stain Resistance

Ceramic tile itself holds up well to stains, but once the grout is stained, it can be nearly impossible to clean. Regular sealing of the grout lines is mandatory.

Rating: 1. 0.

Heat Resistance

Since it is fired at high temperatures, ceramic or porcelain tile resists heat very well. Tile is virtually impervious to scorching or burning.

Rating: 5.0.

Resale Value

Prospective home buyers are often put off by kitchens with tile countertops, though they may love tile backsplashes, walls, and floors. Tile countertops offer poor resale value.

Rating: 2.0.

Bottom Line

Tile countertops earn a lower-tier overall rating of 2.8 out of 5 due to the many grout seams and difficult maintenance.

Laminate: the Most Economical Material

Laminate countertops are the perennial standby when it comes to kitchen and bathroom countertop choices. But can we rank them in the best countertops group? The answer is yes.

jodiejohnson / Getty Images

Appearance

Once regarded as fake-looking, modern laminates made by manufacturers such Wilsonart and Formica are now pushing the boundaries with high-pressure laminates that are steadily improving in appearance. Laminate is no longer regarded as the poor cousin among the countertop materials.

Rating: 3.0.

Value

With the better looks come higher prices, but it is still possible to buy rock-bottom cheap laminate countertops. This is one of the most economical of all countertop materials, especially considering its now-impressive appearance. Laminate countertops range in price from $15 to $40 per square foot, installed.

Rating: 5.0.

Stain Resistance

Laminate countertops are easy to clean with a swipe of a wet cloth or sponge, but when stains get embedded, they are very hard to remove.

Rating: 2.0.

Heat Resistance

Considering that laminates are essentially plastic, you might think they would melt under extreme heat. This doesn't happen, although very hot pans can scorch and discolor the surface.

Rating: 2.0.

Resale Value

Although the perception is beginning to change, laminate countertops still have trouble gaining acceptance with realtors and prospective home buyers. Laminates are often regarded as bargain-basement countertops, except within carefully decorated mid-century modern kitchens.

Rating: 2.0.

Bottom Line

Laminate countertops earn a lower-end rating of 2.8 out of 5.0. However, they offer great value, and the negative perception of laminates is gradually fading.

Refinishing: Best Value?

For just a few hundred bucks, it's possible to turn a laminate or tile countertop into something apparently new. The base material stays the same but a special, thick coating goes on top to radically change the countertop's appearance.

photovs / Getty Images

Appearance

Judging appearance is all relative and subjective. Refinished countertops can look spectacular compared to an old countertop. Yet no matter how much the refinishing kit claims your resurfaced counter will look like real marble, it just won't.

Rating: 2.5.

Value

Refinished countertops blow all other countertops' pricing out of the water. Nothing is cheaper. Even purchasing the cheapest laminate counter off the racks at Lowe's or The Home Depot is more expensive. For as low as $200 to $250, you can purchase a do-it-yourself counter refinishing kit.

Rating: 5.0.

Stain Resistance

Refinished counters resist stains well—as well as a standard laminate countertop.

Rating: 4.0.

Heat Resistance

This is the Achilles' heel of refinished countertops: They scratch easily and are not very durable.

Rating: 1.0.

Resale Value

Appearance-wise, a counter that is refinished closely resembles a normal laminate countertop. And like laminates, a refinished countertop normally doesn't improve real estate value.

Rating: 2.0.

Bottom Line

Refinishing earns a rating of 2.9 out of 5.0, thanks mostly to the low cost.

Solid-Surface Material: a Good Blend of Appearance and Affordability

Solid surface countertops are made from synthetic acrylic, epoxy, and polyester materials bonded together in formulations aimed at mimicking the look of natural stone. When solid-surface material was introduced in the late 1960s by Dupont, it was regarded as a high-end countertop material. Its role as a premium material has largely been taken over by quartz and solid granite, but solid surface is still a very good material that offers a unique blend of performance, appearance, and economy.

Formica

Appearance

Solid-surface countertops can be manufactured to look like practically anything. While they cannot match the appearance of real or even engineered stone, solid-surface countertops still look better than laminate. They can be fabricated to be entirely seamless and can even incorporate seamless sink basins within the countertop.

Rating: 4.0.

Value

Though considerably more expensive than tile or laminate, the excellent performance and appearance of solid-surface material make it one of the best values. Costs for solid-surface ​countertops range from $35 to $85 per square foot, installed.

Rating: 4. 0.

Stain Resistance

Yes, solid-surface counters do stain, and those stains can be pervasive. However, the nature of solid-surface material makes it possible to sand out stains rather easily.

Rating: 3.0.

Heat Resistance

Solid-surface material can be scorched fairly easily. Countertop manufacturers have been developing solid-surface materials that hold up better against heat, but the product still has a long way to go. Burn marks can be removed fairly easily with sanding.

Rating: 2.0.

Resale Value

Solid-surface materials offer moderately good resale value. While no longer considered a luxury material, solid-surface countertops are considered much more favorably than laminates or tile.

Rating: 3.0.

Bottom Line

Solid-surface countertops are in the upper tier of countertop materials, earning a rating of 3.2 out of 5.0.

Stainless Steel: The Trendy Option

Second only to concrete as the most trendy countertop material, stainless steel's popularity has waxed and waned over the years. Originally a material found only in commercial kitchens, stainless steel has recently become common in high-end residential kitchens. But there is no denying that in terms of pure coolness, this material comes out ahead of most others.

Robert Daly / Getty Images

Appearance

Stainless steel is highly attractive. It is luminous without being glaringly bright and has a lovely patina. The only downside is that it has only one face: Stainless steel always looks the same way. Unlike other materials, it cannot be tinted, aged, painted, or resurfaced. You can buy hundreds of different kinds of countertop marbles and granites, but you can buy only one stainless steel.

Rating 4.0.

Value

Stainless steel is very pricey. This is due partially to the expense of the materials, but also because of the limited number of competent fabricators. The scarcity of qualified labor drives prices higher. Costs of stainless steel countertops range from $80 to $250 per square foot, installed.

Stain Resistance

Though it is called "stainless," steel can be stained with food materials, although it will not rust. Stains can usually be removed, however.

Rating: 3.0.

Heat Resistance

As a metal, stainless steel is almost impervious to burns and scorch marks in a normal kitchen setting.

Rating: 5.0.

Resale Value

Discerning buyers will value stainless steel, so your investment will indeed pay off. When they make an offer, non-discerning buyers may look down on this material, mentally subtracting the cost of pulling out the steel counters and replacing with another material.

Rating: 5.0.

Bottom Line

Stainless steel countertops earn an overall rating of 3.3 out of 5.0. It can be a great countertop in the right kitchen decor but may turn off prospective buyers who don't have a trend-conscious attitude.

Slab Granite: Best Real Estate Appeal

For some time now, solid granite slabs have been regarded as the premium countertop material. While you might think the trend will eventually end, the virtues of granite continue to make it a perennial top performer.

krblokhin / Getty Images

Appearance

Granite counters have a deep, rich, complex appearance that cannot be duplicated in any type of man-made material. Because each granite slab is unique, this means that no two countertops have exactly the same appearance. While other types of natural stone, including soapstone, slate, and marble, are also used in countertops, granite is by far the preferred stone for appearance.

Rating: 5.0.

Value

Granite is always—always—a pricey countertop material. On average, this is the most expensive of countertop materials on our list. Prices can range from $45 to $300 per square foot, installed.

Rating: 1.0.

Stain Resistance

Since granite is a porous stone, it does suck up stains. But annual sealing will help avoid this problem.

Rating: 2.0.

Heat Resistance

Granite, forged in the heat of the earth, will hold up well against your hot pans. Granite is virtually impossible to burn by normal means.

Rating: 5.0.

Resale Value

Even though the fervor for granite may be slightly past its peak, granite still lends considerable resale value to a home. Realtors and prospective buyers almost always perk up when they see granite countertops.

Rating: 4.0.

Bottom Line

Granite earns a top-tier rating of 3.4 out of 5.0, thanks to its great appearance and durability.

Quartz: Best Overall Choice

Although there are those who disagree, quartz countertops—a form of engineered stone—may well be the best of all countertop materials when all factors are considered. Quartz countertops are made from natural stone byproducts (leftover rubble from quarrying) which are pulverized and blended with resins to form slabs. It can be considered a "green" building material since it is made from leftover stone and doesn't require quarrying. Engineered quartz has nearly all the virtues of granite and other natural stone while costing less.

RoyalFive / Getty Images

Appearance

Quartz countertops look fantastic. Because they partially use natural materials (as opposed to solid surface, which is all man-made), quartz counters have unparalleled depth and richness. Dozens of different looks are available, ranging from granite and marble look-alikes to very unique, modern colors and patterns. And unlike granite and other natural stone, quartz never has flaws or cracks.

Rating: 5.0.

Value

Quartz countertops are expensive, but when factoring in the advantages, quartz countertops are relatively good value. Typical costs range from $55 to $155 per square foot, installed.

Rating: 4.0.

Stain Resistance

Quartz counters hold up well against stains and need no sealing. However, extremely caustic substances such as lye or other strong chemicals may damage your quartz counters.

Rating: 5.0.

Heat Resistance

Quartz countertops are among the best at resisting burns and scorching.

Rating: 4.0.

Resale Value

Homebuyers place a high premium on quartz countertops, sometimes regarding them as even more valuable than granite.

Rating: 5.0.

Bottom Line

Quartz countertops earn a top rating in our ranking, 4.6 out of 5.00.

Which worktop is better to choose for the kitchen: expert opinions and tips

Contents

The worktop is an important element of the kitchen set. It should not only fit into the overall interior and have an aesthetic appearance, but also differ in practicality, since when cooking it has a big load. Manufacturers offer countertops made of various materials: from natural stone to glass and wood.

Secrets of choosing a kitchen worktop

The first thing you need to pay attention to before buying is that the product matches the overall design. On the modern market, countertops of various colors and textures are presented. It can be chosen in the color scheme of the kitchen set or made a bright accent in the interior.

In addition to aesthetics, you should also pay attention to practicality. Black and white countertops require special care, as all stains and dirt are highly visible on them.

The texture of worktops has a great influence on their functionality. They are: glossy, matte, corrugated. In this case, the surface of even one shade will differ if the texture is changed. Of no small importance is the material from which the countertop is made.

Marble

Natural stone has a number of advantages and disadvantages. Among the main advantages note aesthetics. In addition, marble countertops feature:

The procedure for making a natural stone countertop is laborious, so its cost is quite high. Among the main disadvantages of products, a porous surface is noted that absorbs all substances. Therefore, if tea or coffee is spilled on the surface, then the stain must be wiped immediately. Marble does not tolerate sudden changes in temperature, due to which small cracks may appear on it.

Granite

Granite countertops are durable and elegant. Natural stone will add aristocracy to the interior of the kitchen. Among the advantages of granite surfaces are:

Natural stone countertops also have their drawbacks:

  1. limited color choice;
  2. heavy weight;
  3. absorption of dyes (stains from wine, coffee may remain).

Granite products are recommended to be installed on pedestals with reinforced construction due to their heavy weight. If the countertop consists of several plates, then the joints are clearly visible. Despite the shortcomings, this piece of kitchen set is durable and, with proper care, will last for decades.

Quartz

Quartz contains natural stone chips (granite or marble) bonded with epoxy oils. Countertops made of agglomerate are cheaper than marble or granite, and in some respects they are practically not inferior to them. The surface is imitated under a natural stone, differs in resistance to various dyes and chemicals. The advantages of quartz are as follows:

Service life of countertops from 10 years without loss of original properties. The disadvantages of quartz surfaces include the complexity of repair. Chips and cracks on them will not work. In addition, countertops larger than 3 meters will have joints. When installing the surface, it is necessary to take into account its heavy weight, so the design of the cabinet will need to be strengthened.

Acrylic

Acrylic is often used for worktops, as it can be used to create products in various shapes and colors. Fine mineral chips are combined with acrylic resin and color pigments. The resulting mass is poured into any desired form. Acrylic countertops are distinguished by unusual geometric shapes, so they can fit into almost any interior.

Among the advantages of a kitchen set item are:

Do not place hot objects on acrylic tops. Surfaces are subject to mechanical damage, scratches may remain on them. But the advantage of acrylic countertops is that it is easily restored. Products require professional installation, especially if they have a non-standard shape. Stains can form on the surface from dyes, so any liquid from them must be removed immediately.

Wood

Tabletops are made from durable woods, including oak, ash, cherry, walnut. Wooden surfaces harmoniously look in any interior, add comfort and warmth to the kitchen. The upper part is covered with special compounds that provide moisture resistance and resistance to mechanical damage. Tabletops made of wood are characterized by:

Wooden surfaces do not tolerate high temperatures, are highly flammable and must be carefully monitored. When processing countertops with special tools, they will last a long time. The surface is recommended to be periodically polished, which allows it to return to its original appearance.

When choosing a countertop, you need to pay attention to the type of wood and its class (the higher it is, the less knots and bumps). Experts recommend choosing products with a thickness of 40-50 mm. The countertops are easy to install and can be installed directly by the homeowner, even without special skills. It is important that the wooden surface is covered with special compounds to repel moisture, otherwise there is a risk of fungus or mold.

Ceramic

Ceramic surfaces are hygienic and aesthetically pleasing. They are easy to care for and resistant to aggressive detergents. Cracks and chips are rare on the surface, even with heavy use. If necessary, a defective tile can be replaced with another one.

Ceramic countertops look original in the interior, but are quite expensive. At the same time, they are strong and durable, easily restored if scratches or chips appear. Ceramic tile countertops require special care, especially at joints where dirt and water can accumulate. The surface is washed with a damp sponge using special household chemicals.

Glass

Tempered glass is one of the materials used for countertops. Thanks to a special production technology, the surfaces are durable and heat resistant. There is a wide range of glass countertops on the market. Surfaces can also vary in texture. They are light in weight, so they can be easily installed on cabinets made of any materials.

Glass tops blend harmoniously with modern interior design styles. They are made in various shapes and colors, with drawings or plain. Despite the fact that glass is considered a fairly fragile material, countertops are highly durable. But when a crack appears, the entire surface will need to be replaced.

Selection guide

When choosing a worktop, you should be guided by the overall style of the interior and the material from which the kitchen set is made. Surfaces made of natural stone are recommended for spacious rooms. Wooden countertops look harmonious even in small kitchens.

Matt surfaces are more practical than glossy ones. When choosing a countertop, you should pay attention to such characteristics as strength and water resistance. Porous surfaces easily absorb dirt and are unstable to dyes.


Rating:

4.8

(1047)

Top 10 best kitchen countertop materials And the main requirements for the material from which the countertop will be made remain durability, reliability, resistance to damage, heat and moisture. Do not forget also about the external parameters, because your countertop will become a very noticeable element in the interior of the kitchen.

What should I consider when choosing a worktop material?

For a comfortable atmosphere in the kitchen, the material from which the worktop is made also plays an important role. It is beauty, ease of care and use, functionality and practicality. There are many factors to consider when choosing a countertop. We offer to figure out which material is the best for its manufacture. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of the most popular kitchen countertop solutions, from chipboard to engineered stone. Let's start with the most budgetary material:

10th place.

Chipboard tops

Tops are made from pressed hardwood boards such as maple, teak, walnut or cherry. This softens the overall look of the kitchen by introducing an organic surface. Particle boards are more expensive to manufacture but hold up against knives, pots and pans. Therefore, this option is suitable for a work area with heavy use, while a less expensive chipboard block is more suitable for countertops other than the work area.

Plus:

Cons:

9th place. Ceramic tile countertops

Ceramic tile is a popular countertop finish because it is resistant to water, stains and heat. Available in a variety of colors, textures and styles, it's virtually guaranteed that you'll find the perfect tile to match your kitchen design.

Tiled tops can be inlaid with a checkerboard pattern. Or you can make a countertop with contrasting inserts. There are many opportunities to beautifully decorate the countertop, all you need is a fantasy.

Pros:

Cons:

8th place. Laminate Worktops

Laminate panels are available in a stunning variety of colors, patterns, finishes and textures. Laminate countertop offers a wide range of kitchen design options. Laminated panels resist heat, scratches and stains and can be easily cleaned with soap and water.

Pros:

Cons:

7th place. Concrete worktops

A concrete mixing material that can be pre-made or even poured into molds on site is a good option for a countertop. Concrete offers a wide range of colors, edging and textures to match almost any kitchen style. Additives and surface treatments allow concrete countertops to mimic many types of stone, giving the look and feel of stone at a much lower cost.
Concrete countertops also allow you to experiment with elements that are not usually found in countertops made of other materials. Sinks can be built directly into the countertop, then the product will have a monolithic look. Colored contrasting inserts or embedded glass mosaics can completely transform the look of a countertop.

Plus:

Cons:

6th place. Wooden worktops

A wooden worktop is best for a separate section that is used as a slicing or baking area. This countertop will give warmth and comfort to your kitchen.

The wood surface is susceptible to stains and scratches, but can be restored with power sanding. Eco-friendly options are available in the form of recycled wood.

Plus:

Cons:

5th place. Glass Worktops

Glass is a relatively new worktop material that is gaining popularity. High-quality tempered glass looks beautiful in the interior and will serve you for many years. A wide variety of glass surfaces are available, from custom-made monochrome glass panels to original, unusual shapes, to individual glass slabs or sections in stunning color and design.
It is also possible to combine multiple layers of glass to achieve a 3D effect and surface changes, or use recessed lighting to create truly impressive structures.

Pros:

Cons:

4th place. Stainless steel countertops

Suitable for a variety of kitchen designs from classic to loft design. Stainless steel is a tough, versatile material that is suitable for many kitchen appliances, kitchen cabinets, shelves, hoods, etc.
It can be made into almost any shape, smooth or textured, while matching the style of the kitchen by matching stainless steel from high quality appliances placed around the room. The material is very strong, making it ideal for heavy duty applications where hot pans are placed and sharp knives cut through hard food.

Pros:

Minuses:

3rd place. Natural stone (granite, quartz, marble).

Material for professional chefs due to its unique appearance, durability and heat resistance.
Stone is the most expensive countertop material, but the cost can be reduced by using sections or tiles instead of solid slabs (which can also add variety).
Granite is one of the most popular countertop materials because it is made from very hard minerals (quartz, feldspar and mica) that resist scratches, chips and discoloration from heat. In fact, granite can be used for almost any application and surface – from the bathroom to the fireplace, from the walkway to the kitchen counter.
In addition to granite, other types of stone are available such as marble, travertine, quartzite, limestone and soapstone. Each one offers a variety of colors, ranging from pure single color (marble free of impurities) to random outliers and splashes of crystals on a different color background.
Be sure to discuss the pros and cons of each individual type of stone with your countertop supplier, as well as the proper care and maintenance that will ensure your countertop lasts for a long time.

Pros:

Cons:

2nd place. Solid Surface (Acrylic) Countertops

Made from solid acrylic material, this type of countertop can imitate the look of granite, marble, glass and many other materials. Acrylic, depending on the type and quality, can resist fading as well as damage from heat and moisture. The most popular brands are Corian (DuPont) and Staron (Samsung). Regardless of brand, solid surface countertops offer a huge variety of color combinations, textures and edges. Since this artificial material is made to order, it can be molded into any shape, including matching kitchen sinks. An acrylic surface will cost less than real stone and will have a very similar look and feel, as well as a softer, warmer feel.
However, the surface can be damaged by knives and can become discolored if a hot pot is left in one place for too long.

Pros:

Cons:

1st place. Quartz Surfaces (Caesarstone, Quartzite)

Bridging the gap between natural stone (costly and difficult to work with) and fully man-made materials (Corian, etc.) is a breed of countertop material known as "quartz surface". It is a blend of hard acrylic resin and ground quartz that adds a unique sheen, strength and durability to the countertop.
Quartz surface countertops will easily replace the look of natural stone.

Pluses:

Cons:

Order your kitchen countertop from Stone & Furniture

When deciding which material to use for your kitchen countertop, you can't go wrong with quartz, acrylic or granite.
All of these materials will bring liveliness to your home, as they each provide their own benefits.
Quartz and acrylic countertops give you ease of use, while granite looks rich but requires more maintenance.
If your budget allows you to choose a worktop made of acrylic, quartz, granite, marble - feel free to order a surface made of such materials.

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