Learn about the top 5 most durable kitchen countertops and how their versatility and physical appearance can enhance your kitchen.
Selecting the perfect countertop for your busy family’s kitchen can be difficult, especially if you don’t know where to start. Countertop materials come in an impressive array of colors and types, and is best to choose a material that stands up to the wear and tear of daily life. If you are currently in the market for new countertops, here are the top 5 most durable kitchen countertops.
Natural Stone
Originally only limited to the kitchens and bathrooms of the most affluent consumers, natural stone, such as granite, marble, slate, and soapstone, has become one of the most popular countertop materials in the industry. Granite, which is the most popular natural stone countertop material, comes in a wide range of colors, so it's easy to find a countertop that matches your cabinets. It also stands up to heavy use, and its price can range from $75 to $250 per square foot. Granite is treated with a stain-resistant sealer and wiped with a non-invasive stone cleaner. Comparatively priced to granite is slate and soapstone countertops, that are available in an extensive selection of natural earth-toned colors.
Solid Surface
Solid-surface countertops are comprised of polymer acrylic resin, and are popular among busy households due to their high resistance to scratches, stains, and burns. There are hundreds of colors and patterns of solid-surface countertop materials, and they are engineered to give an appearance similar to natural stone.
One of the most common solid surface materials on the market is Quartz composite, which is created by fusing real quartz aggregate with acrylic. Quartz is much harder than other solid-surface materials, and they offer a more radiant and clean appearance as well. Composite quartz starts at $150 to $200 per square foot.
Recycled Wood (Butcher Block)
Recycled wood is the best countertop material for cooks who intend to chop, slice, or cut on their counter directly. For this reason, recycled wood is often used on surfaces intended solely for food preparation. When pre-treated properly, it does not harbor bacteria like other countertop materials, and the following types of wood are frequently used:
- Rock maple
- Oak
- Cherry
- Walnut
- Teak
Recycled wood starts at $100 to $200 per square feet, and it is usually treated with mineral oil to reduce staining.
Concrete
Boasting an appearance similar to natural stone and starting at only $85 to $100 per square feet, concrete is fast becoming one of the most popular countertop materials. A pigment can be added to concrete to create a variety of colors, and concrete countertops must be custom poured for each home installation, either on-site or prepared at the fabricator’s shop. Fiberglass, wire mesh, or metal rebar are used to strengthen the concrete and increase longevity.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel countertops can give any kitchen a sleek, modern appearance. It is heat and stain resistant and can be welded or buffed to remove any visible seams. Unfortunately, stainless steel shows fingerprints and is susceptible to scratches and dents. It is also important to avoid using abrasive materials near stainless steel counters – they can quickly scratch the steel. Stainless steel for countertops starts at $100 to $200 per square foot.
When choosing from one of these top 5 most durable kitchen counter tops, remember to keep your specific kitchen task needs, activities with design in mind.
