Comparisons of Kitchen Counter Surfaces

Natural Stone

• Natural stone countertops, including granite, quartz, limestone and marble, have become the standard in countertop designs. All of these surfaces withstand wear and tear and are available in a variety of colors and finishes, including glossy and matte surfaces. Quartz, a hard stone, handles heat directly on the surface, resists stains and requires no additional sealing. However, this product often develops chips along corners and edges. Like quartz, granite is durable and will last for many years with proper sealing. Every few years, reseal granite surfaces to prevent bacteria building up and staining. Limestone stands up well to heat exposure but develops scratches and nicks more easily than other stones. Reserve limestone surfaces for low-traffic kitchens, suggests Consumer Reports. Marble provides an instantly glamorous look to the kitchen but can be easily damaged by heat and scratching. Reseal often and reserve for low-traffic areas.

Butcher Block

• Butcher block, or a wood countertop, works best in farmhouse or country style kitchen. It provides a natural finish to the room and comes in a variety of grains and stains. Chop produce directly on the surfaces as you would on a wooden cutting board. Avoid cutting meat, poultry and shellfish as bacteria may collect on the countertop surface. Seal butcher block countertops with a varnish to help the product resist stains. You can use reclaimed or recycled lumber for an environmentally-friendly option.

Laminate

• Laminate countertop surfaces help create a custom kitchen look on a tight budget. Manufacturers create laminate surfaces by sealing layers of paper and veneer to particle board. Unlike stone or wood surfaces, laminate countertops do not require sealing. Virtually any countertop cleaning product restores even dirty counters to a clean shine. Over time, this surface may become worn, requiring replacement.

Man-made Surfaces

• As technology advances, several man-made products provide customers with interesting alternatives to the traditional countertop products. Concrete counters provide many options for dying or texturizing the surface. This product may develop cracks over time, especially when installed by a novice. Stainless steel tolerates heat, resists stains and works well in a modern kitchen design. Finish with a matte or grain finish to hide fingerprints and scratches, suggests Consumer Reports. Some manufacturers use recycled aluminum in metal countertops for a sustainable, eco-friendly option. For an individualized look, create a custom countertop from recycled glass bits in a resin or concrete base. Like other concrete and resin-based surfaces, the countertop may require resealing to prevent scratches.