Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (2024)

Home Improvement

Countertops

Learn about the types of countertops, characteristics, durability, and more

By

Timothy Dale

Timothy Dale

Timothy Dale is a home repair expert and writer with over a decade of hands-on construction and home improvement experience. He is skilled in residential, commercial, industrial and institutional plumbing, electrical, carpentry, installation, renovations, and project management.

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Updated on 02/01/24

Reviewed by

Deane Biermeier

Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (1)

Reviewed byDeane Biermeier

Deane Biermeier is an expert contractor with nearly 30 years of experience in all types of home repair, maintenance, and remodeling. He is a certified lead carpenter and also holds a certification from the EPA. Deane is a member of The Spruce's Home Improvement Review Board.

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There are many types of countertop materials available to customize your kitchen. However, before selecting an ideal countertop material for your kitchen, it's important to consider the characteristics of each, including durability, cost, installation, appearance, longevity, resistance, and maintenance requirements.

Whether you are looking for natural stone, like marble and granite, or prefer the look and feel of concrete or ceramic tile, each option has different characteristics, and knowing them can help you choose the best one for your needs.

Use this guide to the most common types of countertops to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of each so that you can discover the best types of countertop materials for your kitchen.

Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (2)

  • 01 of 13

    Quartz (Engineered Stone)

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (3)

    Engineered stone quartz is an ideal option if you are looking to cut costs but still want the natural stone appearance of marble or granite. This type of countertop material is made of about 90 percent quartz particles, mixed with other minerals to create a strong and durable product resistant to staining.

    Quartz comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing you to choose the best design for your kitchen aesthetic. It's an easy-to-clean material that is resistant to mold, mildew, and bacteria.

    Due to the non-porous design, you don't need to worry about sealing a quartz countertop regularly. However, engineered quartz can fade under direct sunlight, so keep the layout of your kitchen in mind.

    A similar option to quartz would be quartzite. This would be a great choice if you're concerned about scratching and heat damage, as quartzite has a better heat tolerance. As well, the natural markings disguise any potential knicks that can occur.

    Pros

    • Easy to maintain, no sealing required

    • Resistant to mold, mildew, and stains

    • Wide variety of color options

    Cons

    • Vulnerable to heat damage

    • Susceptible to scratches

    • Direct sunlight can fade the color

    Continue to 2 of 13 below

  • 02 of 13

    Granite

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (4)

    One of the top choices for kitchen countertops is granite. Granite countertops are popular because they are durable and tough, able to resist impact and abrasive damage. It is a more expensive countertop option, but homeowners love it's resistance to heat and stunning finish.

    A granite countertop can last for decades if it is taken care of properly. Granite is easy to clean, but it is a porous natural stone, so you must apply a new sealant over the granite about once every three to five years.

    Pros

    • Resistant to heat and abrasion

    • Strong and durable material

    • Many colors and patterns

    Cons

    • Premium price material

    • Requires regular sealing

    • Heavy and difficult to install

    Continue to 3 of 13 below

  • Soapstone

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (5)

    Using soapstone as a kitchen countertop material is an excellent way to avoid stains. Soapstone is an entirely non-porous naturally occurring stone, and its percentage of talc gives the surface a soft texture, similar to soap.

    Soapstone is also resistant to heat and bacteria, though it is susceptible to scratches and dents.

    Any minimal damage to the soapstone can actually help develop the unique patina that appears gradually as the surface of the soapstone oxidizes, giving the material a unique look. You can also pick the color from a variety of shades that have blue or green undertones with marble-like veining.

    To keep soapstone kitchen countertops in good condition for years to come and to help develop the patina on the surface, treat the countertop with mineral oil about once per month during the first year after installation.

    Pros

    • Unique veining and color patterns

    • Non-porous, resistant to heat and stains

    • Patina can create an antique appearance

    Cons

    • Takes time for the patina to develop

    • Must be treated with mineral oil

    • Surface is vulnerable to abrasive damage

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  • 04 of 13

    Marble

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (6)

    Similar in price to granite, marble is a high-end kitchen countertop material that is known for its aesthetic appeal. Marble comes in a wide range of colors, each with marble veining or naturally occurring patterns made from mineral deposits. It is an excellent option for anyone who wants a truly unique countertop design.

    Marble holds up well against heat and it is resistant to cracking, chipping, or breaking, allowing it to last for years without problem. Marble is vulnerable to scratching and staining, so do have the marble sealed at least once a year.

    Pros

    • Reistant to heat, cracking, and breaking

    • Attractive material with unique marble veining

    • Durable, long-lasting material

    Cons

    • Vulnerable to scratches and staining

    • Requires regular sealing and maintenance

    • Premium priced

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  • 05 of 13

    Solid-Surface Material

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (7)

    Solid-surface material is a blend of acrylic particles and resins that have been pressed into sheets to create kitchen countertops. This material was first designed as an alternative to natural stone countertops, which its creators sought to mimic.

    The main benefit of solid-surface material over natural stone is that solid-surface material is more cost-effective, making it an excellent middle-tier option for your kitchen. There are many colors, patterns, and styles, including duplicates of granite and marble.

    The seams on the material are almost invisible and it is resistant to stains, so you can expect the countertop to stay in good condition for years. However, solid-surface material is not heat resistant and it's vulnerable to abrasive damage.

    Pros

    • Resistant to staining

    • Seams are virtually invisible

    • Available in many colors and patterns

    Cons

    • Moderately expensive

    • Vulnerable to damage from heat

    • Susceptible to scratches and dents

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  • 06 of 13

    Ceramic Tile

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (8)

    More commonly used in the bathroom, a ceramic tile is an interesting option for a kitchen countertop. It can be installed by an experienced DIY to help save on installation costs. Ceramic tile counters are typically made by laying individual tiles over a cement-board core with thin-set mortar adhesives.

    Putting in a ceramic tile countertop is an inexpensive option for the kitchen. It's hard, durable, and resistant to heat, though the size of each tile can impede the functionality of the countertop, making it more difficult to prepare food and keep it clean.

    This material has a wide selection of colors, patterns, and styles, so you can get just the look you want. Do keep in mind that ceramic tile is brittle and prone to cracking. The grout lines are also vulnerable to staining and can be difficult to clean.

    Pros

    • Affordable countertop material

    • Relatively easy for DIYers to construct

    • Range of colors and patterns

    Cons

    • Grout is prone to staining

    • Tile sizes can restrict functionality

    • Tile is brittle and vulnerable to cracking

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  • 07 of 13

    Laminates

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (9)

    A go-to kitchen countertop option for many DIYers is laminate, as it's an inexpensive choice that's relatively easy to install due to its lightweight design.

    Laminate is made of particleboard, resins, plastic, and pattern paper that has been seared together using a combination of heat and pressure.

    This material comes in a variety of styles, colors, and patterns, making it easy to find the right look for your kitchen. The nonporous surface keeps out mold and bacteria while preventing stains from forming.

    Do note that laminate is vulnerable to heat damage, so avoid placing any hot pots or pans on the surface of a laminate countertop. This material also has a shorter lifespan than most other countertop options and it is prone to peeling.

    Pros

    • Easy to clean and maintain

    • Inexpensive countertop option

    • Resistant to mold, mildew, and stains​

    Cons

    • Susceptible to heat damage

    • Prone to peeling

    • Vulnerable to scratching and dents

    Continue to 8 of 13 below

  • 08 of 13

    Wood or Butcher Block

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (10)

    Wood has long been used for the construction of homes, chairs, tables, and more, so it shouldn't come as a surprise that you can get wood countertops made similar to a butcher block.

    These countertops are typically composed of maple, oak, teak, ash, or possibly even bamboo, giving you a range of options.

    Wood is tough and durable, allowing it to stand up to years of use without failing. However, the fibrous nature of wood means that the surface of the countertop can become scratched, stained, or even burned. Sand and reseal the wood once every two to three years to restore the original appearance of the countertop.

    Wood needs to be regularly oiled and benefits from being sealed to prevent mold, mildew, and bacteria from seeping into the fibrous countertop.

    Pros

    • Durable, long-lasting material

    • Environmentally friendly countertop option

    • Attractive country-style appearance

    Cons

    • Susceptible to moisture and stains

    • Porous material is vulnerable to bacteria

    • Must be oiled and sealed frequently

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  • 09 of 13

    Stainless Steel

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (11)

    Stainless steel is commonly used in commercial kitchens due to the nonporous construction that makes it easy to keep clean. This is one of the types of countertops for the kitchen that resists mold, mildew, and staining, though the longer you leave a splash or spill, the more difficult it is to clean.

    Consider stainless steel for your kitchen countertop if you are looking for a modern aesthetic for the kitchen that is highly heat resistant. Just be sure that you are prepared to deal with the high frequency of water spots and fingerprints that get left behind.

    Stainless steel is also susceptible to scratches, dents, and other abrasive damage, so make sure that you use cutting boards to protect the surface of the countertop.

    Pros

    • Impervious to heat damage

    • Easiest material to clean

    • Resistant to mold, mildew, and stains

    Cons

    • Expensive

    • Easily scratched surface

    • Shows fingerprints and water spots easily

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  • 10 of 13

    Concrete

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (12)

    If you want a truly unique kitchen, concrete countertops may be the move. Due to the heavy weight of the material, concrete countertops are usually cast in forms right in your kitchen for custom installation. It's necessary to note that this custom work does come at a higher price than other options.

    Concrete countertops can be color-tinted or may have decorative textures added to improve their look and feel, adding character to your kitchen. It's scratch-resistant and heat-resistant, though it is vulnerable to moisture, bacteria, and staining.

    To keep the concrete countertop in great shape, regularly seal the surface. Also, note the home shifting or tension being applied from over-tightening the faucet or other connected fixtures can create stress within the concrete. If tensile stress builds up in the concrete, it can crack over time.

    Pros

    • Heat resistant

    • Scratch resistant

    • Long-lasting industrial appearance

    Cons

    • Expensive

    • High maintenance

    • Porous surface must be regularly sealed

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  • 11 of 13

    Glass

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (13)

    Glass kitchen countertops are one of the most versatile materials, with many styles, colors, and textures available. Not only that, glass can be cut into pretty much any shape you can think of, making it totally customizable for your unique kitchen.

    Glass countertops are also very durable, and resistant to heat. That said, glass countertops can be damaged by sharp or heavy objects. Not only that, if damage were to occur, glass countertops would be very difficult and costly to fix. Sometimes, they can't be repaired at all, depending on the type of damage.

    Pros

    • Versatile

    • Durable

    • Low maintenance

    Cons

    • Expensive to repair if damaged

    • High installation cost

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  • 12 of 13

    Recycled

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (14)

    You can go the eco-friendly route with recycled materials for your kitchen countertop. There are a variety of recycled materials that can be used as a kitchen countertop material including glass, paper, and bamboo.

    Depending on the type of recycled material you choose, there will be different care requirements, pros, and cons to consider. For example, recycled paper countertops are fairly inexpensive and durable. However, these types of countertops do require a fair amount of maintenance in the form of regular sealing as well as avoiding abrasive cleaners.

    Pros

    • Eco-friendly

    • Easy to clean

    • Budget-friendly

    Cons

    • Stains easily

    • Not resistant to heat

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  • 13 of 13

    Onyx

    Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (15)

    Onyx is a gorgeous natural stone that can be used for your kitchen countertops. Onyx is very durable and can last for many years with proper care and regular maintenance.

    On that note, onyx is a high-maintenance material, requiring specific stone cleaners and proper sealing. If used often, periodic refinishing may be necessary to keep it in tip-top shape. Not only that, onyx can be complicated to install, making it more costly than other countertop options.

    Pros

    • Lightweight

    • Durable

    Cons

    • Costly

    • Difficult to install

    • High maintenance

FAQ

  • What is the most durable material for kitchen countertops?

    The most durable material for kitchen countertops is quartz. It's a great option for any kitchen, as quartz is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat,

  • What is the easiest countertop material to maintain?

    There are various types of countertop materials that are easy to maintain including quartz, laminate, and steel.

  • What kitchen countertops never go out of style?

    Some types of kitchen countertops that have stayed stylish for many years include granite, marble, and butcher block.

35 Options for Kitchen Countertop Materials

Thinking About Upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops? Here Are 13 Types to Consider (2024)

FAQs

What type of kitchen counters are best? ›

The best countertop material is generally considered to be quartz. It belongs in kitchens and bathrooms because it's durable, water-resistant, and available in a wide range of styles.

Is it worth upgrading kitchen countertops? ›

Potential buyers often prioritize kitchen upgrades, including countertops, when evaluating a property's value and desirability. Investing in new countertops can enhance the marketability of your home, increase its resale value, and attract potential buyers, making it a worthwhile investment in the long run.

What is the new trend for countertops? ›

Sintered stone slabs are on the rise as kitchen countertop trends 2024. This extremely hardwearing countertop material is a type of manufactured stone that is highly practical due to its heat-resistant and stain-resistant properties. Moreover, it comes in a range of natural stone-look designs.

How can I upgrade my countertops without replacing them? ›

Installing tile or poured concrete on top of your existing countertops can give them a completely new vibe. Tiles come in endless options and concrete can be stained, polished, or stamped. Look into solid surface countertops.

Is quartz cheaper than granite? ›

Which is more expensive, quartz or granite? Both quartz and granite maintain their value for many years to come, and the materials cost approximately the same, with quartz being slightly less expensive. However, luxurious quartz products can be as expensive as granite slabs.

What type of countertop lasts the longest? ›

Quartz takes first place in terms of durability. Made of crushed quartz stone mixed with polymers and resin, this artificially engineered stone countertop is an extremely durable surface that resembles natural stone.

What color countertops never go out of style? ›

White or light countertops

White will always be an elegant choice for kitchen countertops. White countertops don't need to be boring, either.

What color countertops are in style in 2024? ›

If you're looking to make a statement with your countertops, consider opting for daring colors like deep blues, emerald greens, or even striking black tones. Deep Blues: Navy blue and royal blue countertops are making waves this year, adding a sense of sophistication and elegance to any space.

Which countertop adds the most value? ›

It comes in various patterns and colors, so you can find a style that fits your kitchen. Granite countertops are a great investment because they have a high return on investment. If you're considering selling your home in the future, granite countertops are an ideal way to increase your home's value.

How to redo countertops on a budget? ›

What is the cheapest way to redo kitchen countertops? There are a few cheap ways to redo kitchen countertops. For example, you can paint them, cover them with contact paper, or sand them and stain them with a wood finish. These options are suitable for wood, linoleum, or laminate countertops.

Does upgrading countertops increase home value? ›

A Realtor® can tell you specifically how much this highly coveted finish will add to the potential sale price of your home. However, the general perspective on this question is that you will add an amount to your home's value equivalent to at least 25 percent of the retail cost of the countertops.

Can you put new countertops on existing cabinets? ›

Here's the short answer: Yes, absolutely. You can replace your countertops without having to renovate all your cabinets.

What is the toughest kitchen countertop? ›

The durability winner is quartz, the man-nature combo countertop. Crushed quartz stone is mixed with resin to produce countertops that range from solid colors to the look of real granite, but they'll beat natural stone in toughness. Quartz is almost indestructible under normal kitchen prep conditions.

Which is more expensive, quartz or porcelain countertops? ›

The costs of quartz countertops and porcelain countertops are quite different. The average cost of porcelain lies between $55 to $120 for every square foot. On the other hand, the average cost of a quartz countertop ranges from $45 to $200 for every square foot.

What is the most sanitary kitchen countertop? ›

Quartz countertops are non-porous and easy to clean. They won't trap and harbor bacteria the way that other countertops might. If you want to help keep a cleaner, more hygienic kitchen in your home, consider quartz countertops to help do the job.

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