Things to Consider When Choosing a Countertop Material

One of the easiest ways to liven up a kitchen or bathroom is to update its countertops. Out-of-date, drab, or worn countertops have a tendency to bring down the style of any room. However, bathroom and kitchen countertops need to do more than just look beautiful—they need to be tough. Regularly splattered with food and water, wiped down with cleaning products, or scalded with hot pans and curling irons, bathroom and kitchen countertops face a daily gauntlet of wear and tear.

As you shop for countertops, consider the susceptibility of each material to damage. Does the countertop have a porous surface that will encourage bacteria and mold buildup if not cleaned regularly? Will you be able to rest hot pans on the surface? Also, honestly assess how much you’re willing to maintain and care for your countertop, as some materials require regular attention. From the daily bombardment of food and cleaning products in the kitchen to an array of personal hygiene supplies in the bathroom, sometimes the best countertop is a durable one.

The following chart provides an overview of the benefits and drawbacks of some popular countertop materials:

COUNTERTOP MATERIALADVANTAGESDISADVANTAGES

Granite

Luxurious material with natural beauty

Resistant to stains

Durable

Available in many colors and patterns

Very porous unless sealed

Should be resealed periodically if used heavily

Patterns in stone can be inconsistent

Marble

High-end, luxurious material

Stains easily

Not practical for kitchens or baths that see heavy use

Cultured Marble

Economical alternative to natural marble

Resistant to stains when properly finished

Easy to clean

Available in integrated sink and countertop units

Cannot be resurfaced to remedy any scratches in the marble surface

Laminate

Most economical of countertop materials

Easy to clean

Resistant to stains

Can be trimmed or accented with wood or tile to enhance the look

Can be painted with epoxy paint for an inexpensive update

Susceptible to burns, dulling, and deterioration

Scratches and chips are permanent

Solid Surface

Very popular countertop choice for its stonelike appearance and seamless surface

Can include decorative features such as crushed stones

Available in integrated sink and countertop units

Susceptible to burns or damage from heavy objects

Fine sandpaper is needed to fix minor abrasions

Wood

Creates rustic charm

Can be used as a cutting board in food preparation

Very porous

Susceptible to water damage

Difficult to clean

Needs to be sealed to avoid bacterial growth

Tile

Resistant to stains, discoloration, and burns

Wide range of colors, sizes, and styles to choose from

Grout between the tiles traps dirt, water, and stains

Mildew can settle in between the tiles if grout is not regularly cleaned

Soapstone

Completely nonporous surface

Does not require sealing

Does not require a substrate (like a subfloor for countertops) to be installed underneath the stone

Needs to have mineral oil applied during the first month to bring out natural beauty

Limited color choices

A quality bathroom and kitchen remodeling specialist will be able to help you find the right countertops to suit your unique style and daily routine. No matter what countertops you choose to bring into your home, be sure to follow manufacturer recommendations for care and maintenance. Avoid letting spills and stains sit on the surface, and regularly clean between any seams to avoid bacteria and mildew buildup.