New countertops can be an instant life upgrade, or turn into an ongoing hassle. Here's how to choose the best material for your kitchen and lifestyle.
Buying Countertops: Plastic Laminates, Granite, Solid Surfaces & More
Published on Oct. 14, 2024
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Plastic Laminates
What are plastic laminate countertops?
As the name implies, plastic laminate countertops are made from plastics and are generally the most affordable countertop option. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, some of which mimic the look of wood grain and stone. For countertops, choose the more durable high-pressure laminates (HPLs), such as Wilsonart’s HPL line, over low-pressure options (TFL).
How much do plastic laminates cost?
Generally, plastic laminates cost between $10 and $40 per square foot.
Pros
- Affordable
- Low-maintenance
- Easy to install
- Stain and heat-resistant, but not proof
Cons
- Less durable, prone to scratches and heat damage
- Shorter lifespan
- Lower resale value, some consider it less attractive
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Solid Surface and Composite
What are solid surface and composite countertops?
Solid surface and composite countertops are made from manufactured, molded materials, such as Corian and Wilsonart Thinscape. Solid surfaces are usually a combination of mineral dust, resins, acrylics and pigments. Thinscape is a composite made from papers and resins and is only a 1/2-inch thick. Both come in a range of colors and designs, some of which are inspired by rock countertops.
“Thinscape, in particular, is known for its durability, ease of clean and sleek, modern look, which is perfect for those who want a minimalist design,” says Joseph Patrick of Lamont Bros Design & Construction. “It offers a seamless look with integrated sinks, and a thin profile that mimics European porcelain countertops.”
Gershenzon recommends against Corian. “It’s a dated surface,” she says. “It’s less heat-resistant, can be scratched or dented and appears less high-end compared to natural stone.”
How much do solid surface and composite countertops cost?
Solid-surface countertops generally come in between $50 to $100 per square foot, or approximately $15 to $30 for Thinscape.
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Resistant to scratches and stains
- Easy to repair
- Seamless, modern aesthetic
- Many color choices
Cons
- Some types can be scratched or dented
- Some types can’t tolerate direct heat
- Can appear less high-end than natural stone
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Granite
What are granite countertops?
Granite countertops are sheets of actual granite rock quarried from locations around the world, then custom-cut for installation in your kitchen.
“Granite is incredibly durable, making it a favorite for long-term use,” says Gershenzon. “Blank honed is a nice option that gives the look of an updated soapstone. We recommend avoiding heavily speckled granites as they look dated.”
How much do granite countertops cost?
Costs for granite countertops vary from $40 to $200 per square foot, depending on the quality and rarity of the stone.
Pros
- Very durable
- Natural patterns
- Heat and scratch-resistant
- Adds a luxurious feel
- High resale value
Cons
- Requires regular sealing to prevent stains
- Can be expensive
- Heavy (requires strong cabinetry support)
“Granite is fantastic, and we use it regularly,” says Patrick. “But you have to seal it pretty regularly, and that’s important to do.”
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Engineered Stone (Quartz)
What are engineered stone countertops?
Engineered stone, aka quartz countertops, are man-made using quartz and other minerals combined with chemical resins and pigments. They have more natural materials than solid surfaces and often appear more glossy. Engineered stone is available in many colors and patterns, including ones that mimic natural stone.
How much do engineered stone countertops cost?
Diana Isabel Andalon of Kitchen Solvers of San Antonio says costs generally range from $50 to $150 per square foot and vary depending on the style of veining.
“Clients like quartz because you can get the marble look without the maintenance,” she says. “Also, if you have breaking or chipping, it can be easily replaced with the same color you previously purchased.”
Pros
- Excellent scratch resistance
- Low maintenance, no sealing required
- Non-porous
- Easy to clean
- Available in consistent patterns
Cons
- Can be expensive
- Seams may be visible
- Heat-resistant (but not as much as advertised, says Patrick)
- Good, but not great stain resistance (oils and chemicals can affect it, says Rudin)
“Quartz is popular because it’s durable, low-maintenance and available in a wide range of colors and styles,” says Patrick. “It’s one of the best choices for a family kitchen.” However, Gershenzon recommends avoiding thick or colorful veining.
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Stainless Steel
What are stainless steel countertops?
Stainless steel countertops are most commonly found in restaurant kitchens, but they can also be an interesting and practical choice for homes, since they are sanitary and durable.
How much do stainless steel countertops cost?
Costs range from $80 to $200 per square foot.
Pros
- Low maintenance
- Easy to clean and hygienic
- Very durable; stain and heat-resistant
- Sleek, modern, industrial aesthetic
Cons
- Prone to scratches and dents
- Fingerprints and smudges show easily
- Industrial appearance
“Stainless steel is incredible, and this is why it is such a popular choice for restaurant and other commercial purposes,” says Rudiin. “It can also be one of the more affordable countertop options.”
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Wood
What are wood countertops?
Wood countertops, aka butcher block, are usually made from laminated strips of hardwood. We ultimately chose this for our kitchen, and we really enjoy the aesthetic. While it’s common to maintain butcher block with oil, we chose to add an epoxy bar-top type finish, which protects the wood but isn’t suitable for hot cookware.
How much do wood countertops cost?
Costs typically range from $40 to $150 per square foot.
Pros
- Warm, natural aesthetic
- Can be sanded and refinished
- Excellent for food prep
- Can be affordable
Cons
- Needs regular maintenance, like oiling or sealing
- Prone to water damage, scratches and heat marks
- Can harbor bacteria if not properly maintained
“Wood countertops add a rustic or classic touch,” says Patrick. “My preference is to just use the wood as your surface, but know that it’s going to patina over time.”
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Tile
What are tile countertops?
Tile countertops are made from ceramic or porcelain tile, both of which are made from clay, using various shaping and firing techniques. They come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, colors and patterns. We chose a colorful Mexican tile for our kitchen backsplash and adore it.
How much do tile countertops cost?
Tile generally costs between $10 and $50 per square foot.
Pros
- Affordable
- Endless design choices
- Versatile
Cons
- Grout can be a hassle to clean, plus unsanitary
- Tiles can crack or chip
- Not seamless in appearance
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Exotic Surfaces
What are exotic countertops?
Exotic countertops include a range of materials, including Dekton, concrete, marble, quartzite and soapstones. “Marble is considered a classic. That designer luxury look will never go out of style,” says Andalon. She also likes quartzite, a natural stone. “It is the most exotic stone you can get, and clients love this as a unique piece of art in their kitchen or bar area.”
How much do exotic countertops cost?
The cost of exotic countertops varies widely, but it is generally on the expensive side, often between $70 and $300 per square foot.
Pros
- Unique appearance
- High-end appeal
Cons
- Expensive
- Many, like concrete and marble, require sealing
- Some require professional installation
- Softer stones, like marble, are prone to scratching and staining
Concrete is a great choice for scratch and heat resistance but stains easily without regular sealing, says Rudin. “Concrete is a very affordable surface for the DIYer, but requires a serious amount of sanding, buffing and sealing.”
Says Patrick, “Dekton offers a sleek, contemporary look and is highly durable, however its brittleness and higher cost might not be suitable for everyone.”
What to Know Before Buying a New Kitchen Countertop
Before purchasing your new countertops, think about their compatibility with your cabinet style, including color thickness and weight.
“If you have a colored cabinet, try to combine a unique color and style of stone,” says Andalon. “This can elevate the overall design of your space.”
Other factors to consider:
- How rough are you on your surfaces?
- How likely you are to maintain them properly
- Whether you intend on renting the space
- What your budget can handle vs. long-term durability
- Whether you want to DIY the job or hire a pro
- If you want a higher resale value
“Low-quality countertops can be a big turn-off for buyers,” says Gershenzon. “We recommend solid white quartz as an economical option that also looks updated. Solid colored granites, like black honed, are also a great lower-budget option.”
Andalon’s go-to options include quartzite for kitchen islands, quartzite, granite or quartz for the kitchen perimeter, and marble or quartz in the bathroom.
FAQ
What is the cheapest material for countertops?
Usually laminate is the cheapest countertop option, since it can run as low as $10 per square foot. But, it’s not the most durable, which can affect long-term value. Two of our experts also put granite in the most-cost-effective column.
What countertop material lasts the longest?
Granite and quartz (engineered stone) are among the longest-lasting, but Gershenzon says quartz requires less maintenance.
Says Tammy Weadock of Wilsonart, “Quartz surfaces are non-porous, so they’re highly resistant to stains, scratches and heat, and do not require sealing like natural stone. This makes them exceptionally long-lasting.”
Patrick adds Dekton to the most-durable category, while Andalon adds quartzite to the list.
What countertop material is easiest to clean?
Stainless steel is one of the easiest countertops to clean, which is why it’s a standard in restaurants. Engineered stone (quartz) is also easy, since it’s man-made and non-porous. “When looking into stone countertops always ask if they come sealed,” says Andalon. “This can make a major difference when wanting to maintain and clean your stone.”
About the Experts
- Briana Gershenzon is Chief of Design at Renovation Sells, a national company that simplifies home renovations for buyers and sellers. She has more than 10 years of experience in residential design, project management, furnishings and renovations.
- Joseph Patrick is owner of Lamont Bros Design & Construction in the Pacific Northwest. He has more than 20 years of experience in the building industry, with a background as a carpenter and kitchen designer.
- Diana Isabel Andalon is owner of Kitchen Solvers of San Antonio, a kitchen and bathroom remodeling franchise established in 1982.
- Josh Rudin is the owner of ASAP Restoration in Tempe Arizona. He started the company as a one-man operation in 2008, and today it has grown into one of the city’s top disaster mitigation specialists.
- Tammy Weadock is a senior manager at Wilsonart, where she has worked for more than 25 years.
