It’s no secret that the kitchen plays an integral role in a home. From gatherings for holidays with friends and family to preparing a special meal on a birthday for your partner or child, various momentous events are centered around a kitchen. Having something you love and are proud of will make it easier to host. Luckily there are many different types and even colors of countertops.
If you’re wondering, “Which countertop is best for my kitchen?” then the odds are you’re already searching for a customizable home plan. Steiner Homes has plenty of options to choose from to create your ideal kitchen.
Granite
Image by BobMacInnes licensed under CC BY 2.0
Granite has been a top material for countertop choices for quite some time, especially when there is no budget restraint. Kitchens with granite countertops exude elegance, and when properly installed, they can make even a small space seem luxurious. Granite can be pricey, but prices have decreased in recent years due to supply increases. Granite is the standard countertop in Steiner Homes, offering elegance and functionality.
Pros of Granite Countertops:
- Very durable.
- Stunning look when installed correctly.
- Adds significant real estate value.
- Nearly impervious to high temperatures.
- When treated with a newer sealer, granite countertops are virtually maintenance-free.
- Available in thousands of different types and colors.
Cons of Granite Countertops:
- Can be expensive to purchase for an entire kitchen.
- Must be installed by a professional.
- If improperly installed or stressed, it can crack.
- Must be sealed to avoid stains as granite is a very porous material.
- Slabs may have imperfections.
Marble
Marble is another natural stone commonly used as a kitchen countertop. Each marble sheet is unique but can be pricey, making it rare to use throughout the entire kitchen. Most people who opt for marble use it for an island or a section of their countertop.
Pros of Marble Countertops:
- Heatproof.
- Waterproof.
- Beautiful stone with unique veining.
- Adds real estate value to a home.
Cons of Marble Countertops:
- Expensive.
- Porous, which means it can be easily stained unless properly sealed.
- Surface can be scratched, and repairs to scratches can be difficult.
Quartz
Quartz is an engineered stone product formed with quartz particles and other minerals bound by resin. Quartz countertops were introduced as an alternative to granite or marble. It’s available in more colors than granite and is more durable than marble to help resist scratches or stains.
Pros of Quartz Countertops:
- Easy to install.
- No sealing required, which makes maintenance easy.
- Uniform slabs with no imperfections.
- Stain resistant.
- Heat resistant.
- Convincing natural appearance.
- Can be custom made to fit your space perfectly.
Cons of Quartz Countertops:
- Very heavy.
- Can be expensive.
Soapstone
Soapstone is a natural stone that’s usually a dark gray color. It has a silky, smooth feel and has become more popular as a granite alternative. It can also be used as a sink material. Over time a patina appearance occurs, which can be attractive in certain kitchen styles.
Pros of Soapstone Countertops:
- Rich color.
- Fairly stain resistant.
- Fairly heat resistant.
- Any damage can be sanded out.
- Offers a historic, antique look to a home.
Cons of Soapstone Countertops:
- Surface can be scratched or dented.
- Requires treatment with mineral oil.
- Must be professionally installed.
- May darken over time.
Laminate
Laminate countertops may be the perfect solution if working within a budget. Laminate has recently seen a significant popularity boost as both affordable and attractive, thanks to the multiple color options and easy installation.
Pros of Laminate Countertops:
- Easy to maintain.
- Easy to clean.
- Inexpensive.
- Easy to install.
- Thousands of available options.
Cons of Laminate Countertops:
- Visible seams.
- Can be scratched or chipped, and damage is typically not repairable.
Solid Surfacing
Solid surface countertops are manufactured materials consisting of resin and acrylic particles pressed into sheets. This mid-range option will cost you somewhere between laminate and granite or marble. It’s a great option if you have a lot of space that needs to be covered.
Pros of Solid Surface Countertops:
- Virtually invisible seams.
- Stain resistant.
- Available in various colors and patterns.
- Available with integrated sink options.
Cons of Solid Surface Countertops:
- Can be damaged by hot pans.
- Must be fabricated by a professional.
- Costly when compared to laminate.
Stainless Steel
If you’re searching for an industrial or contemporary look for your kitchen, you may consider stainless steel countertops. They’re also great for the avid cooker as they’re durable and both heat and stain resistant.
Pros of Stainless Steel Countertops:
- Durable.
- Heat and water resistant.
- Stain resistant.
- Easy to install.
- Adds real estate value to your home.
- Easy to clean.
Cons of Stainless Steel Countertops:
- Can be costly to fabricate.
- Should not be used as a cutting surface as stainless steel is easily scratched.
- Can be noisy when preparing food.
Butcher Block
If you’re looking for a warm, organic look, butcher block countertops might be right. They’re available in a range of finishes and colors and can last a long time if cared for properly.
Pros of Butcher Block Countertops:
- Offers a charming look.
- Easy to clean.
- Can last a long time if cared for properly.
- Damage can be sanded.
- Easy to reseal as needed to maintain integrity.
Cons of Butcher Block Countertops:
- Surface is easily scratched.
- Can be damaged by water over time.
- Must be properly cleaned to avoid contamination by bacteria.
- Wood can crack if not sealed, oiled, and maintained properly.
Concrete
Last on our list today is the concrete countertop. Concrete can be customized to look exactly how you want and can be formed in your kitchen, so there’s no waiting.
Pros of Concrete Countertops:
- Can be customized, color-tinted, and decorative accents can be added.
- Provides an intriguing, sophisticated look to a kitchen.
- Scratch and heat resistant.
Cons of Concrete Countertops:
- Can be costly due to the time it takes to install.
- Surface will be porous unless it’s sealed.
- Cracks may appear over time.
If you’re ready to begin building your custom home with Steiner Homes, please don’t hesitate to reach out today at 219-255-3363 or via our convenient online contact us form. We can help you plan your dream home, right down to the countertops. Our company has 30 years of custom home experience, providing the expertise and knowledge required to build a stunning home that you and your family will love. We’ll be at your side throughout the entire process to ensure you’re getting what you want.
