Which Countertop Material is Right for You?

Have you been thinking about remodeling or updating your kitchen?  You may be feeling overwhelmed by how many different choices you have for countertops.  We did some research and put together pros and cons on the most popular materials being used in today’s kitchens.  

Granite:  A natural stone that is very durable comes in many natural colors and is unique from slab to slab. PROS: It provides scratch, mildew, stain, and heat resistance.  Granite is easy to clean CONS: Needs to be sealed annually	Granite Photo Courtesy of www.granitecountertops.net
Carrara Marble:  Made in a region of Italy and is typically a white or grey marble.   PROS:  A timeless beauty!  Less expensive than Quartz.  Timeless with elegance and brightness. CONS:  Soft and porous material.  Can scratch and stain easily and must be sealed annually.  Wipe any spills immediately to avoid staining.	Marble Photo Courtesy of www.countertopspecialty.com
Quartz:  An engineered material that is made up 95% ground natural quartz and 5% polymer resins.   PROS:  This is a low maintenance material that has a non-porous surface so 99.9% bacteria free.  No need for annual sealing.  Unlimited color choices available. CONS:   Can be damaged with excessive heat, so use hot pads.	Quartz Photo Courtesy of www.countertopguides.com
Limestone:  Is a sedimentary rock that is made up of skeletal fragments of marine organisms such as coral. PROS:  Has a resemblance to marble but not as expensive.  It is heat resistant. CONS:  Porous material so does stain and has tendency to scratch.  Should be sealed at least once a year.	Limestone Photo Courtesy Connelly Construction
Concrete:  Homeowners and designers have started using concrete more often in their homes. PROS:  Indestructible for countertops.  Many options for different looks just depending on stains, pigments or coatings being used.  Stain and heat resistant when sealed. CONS:   Occasionally may develop hairline fractures in countertop when material settles.  Large countertops can have seams, so you will want to use a seam filler.	Concrete Photo Courtesy of www.diynetwork.com
Corian:  A cross between laminate and granite.   PROS:  There are over 100 color options, textures, and designs.  It is less expensive to install than granite or quartz.   CONS:  It is not heat resistant; so don’t put hot pans directly on countertops.  Scratches are a common occurrence.	Corian Photo Courtesy of www.countertopspecialty.com
Vetrazzo:  Made of recycled glass.  Fairly new to the market but catching on quickly. PROS:  The color and texture options are endless and eco-friendly.  It is easy to clean.  Heat and scratch resistant. CONS:   Typically at the high-end price point.  If acidic foods are left sitting on the counter or harsh cleaning products are used it can mar the acrylic surface.	Vetrazzo Photo Courtesy of www.stonesaver.com