ENGINEERED STONE
(90% Quartz)
Engineered Stone is very low maintenance and will not require sealing. It’s nonporous and will resist scratches and stains no problem. A big benefit is that it looks very much like natural stone, but add in some pigments to the mix and you can broaden the appearance almost endlessly. Be warned: engineered stone is NOT heatproof.
GRANITE
Granite is more durable than marble, coming with all of the same benefits and more. No chipping or denting, heat and water-resistant when sealed, stain-resistant, and impervious to scratches. It has a great resale value, so if you have the money to spend you will likely get it back. Granite also comes in a wide variety of colors and is low-maintenance.
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WOOD / BUTCHER BLOCK
Wood counters are a great prep surface and make you feel like you’re in a working kitchen. There are some big disadvantages of wood to be aware of. First of all, it is easily scratched, dented, and stained. Second, it is a high-maintenance surface which can deter anyone looking to put it into a family environment. It’s also believed that small scratches in the surface are prone to storing bacteria, so if you do opt for wood you’ll want to put on a food-safe sealer. Lastly, direct sunlight and sink spray can cause fading.
CERAMIC
Ceramic tile can be very cost-efficient which can attract many people looking for new countertops. It is also relatively durable, installing and cleaning is a breeze, and it’s heat and moisture resistant. The downsides here are an uneven surface which can make food prep inconvenient, the grout is susceptible to staining, and the tiles can scratch, chip, and crack.
CONCRETE
Concrete is a very smooth surface and is probably your toughest option – having no problem resisting scratches and heat. There is a wide variety of concrete surfaces to keep your options open, and you can shape it any way you desire because it requires custom cast to fit. You will have to seal and wax its porous surface which can make long term maintenance a little bit of a hassle.
MARBLE
Marble comes in endless styles and colors, it has a beautiful smooth surface, and is incredibly chip, dent and heat resistant. Scratching and/or etching is a possibility. Coffee, alcohol, harsh cleaning products, and some citrus fruits and acids all have the potential to scratch. Marble can be protected with a seal, but there is no guarantee it will work 100% of the time. The sealant will also have to be applied one or two times a year for optimal protection.