5 Countertops to Consider

by SweisKloss
December 3, 2020

When designing and renovating a space that includes a countertop, it is smart to weigh all the options. A countertop can provide a captivating focal point and complement the materials/colors that will surround the surface, or it can be subdued to allow the other materials to be more prominent. Equally as important is selecting one for daily functionality that works with the homeowner’s lifestyle and needs. Consider the durability, maintenance, and porosity of the countertop material.

Let’s go over five widely used countertops and what should be considered before making a final selection.

Metal: Metal countertops have a modern, clean look to them, and when paired with the right design features, a metal surface can look high-end. One might immediately think the only option for metal is stainless steel, but copper, zinc, pewter, bronze and brass are also used. This type of countertop is nonporous, easy to clean, relatively easy to install, and recyclable. However, they are susceptible to scratches and dents, and not all metals (like zinc) are heat resistant. Certain metals will patina over time.

Natural stone (marble, granite, quartzite): We all equate natural stone, especially marble, with elegance. No two stone slabs are alike; therefore, natural stone will easily create a unique and beautiful design effect. While all three of these types of countertops are porous, granite and quartzite are the most durable and can be used indoors or outdoors. They do not “etch” like marble, a calcium carbonate, which is reactive with acids. We recommend marble only for areas with limited contact. Marble slabs are also very dramatic as a backsplash or covering a wall. Sealing natural stone on a regular basis is ideal but always check with the manufacturer as to the care of the stone. The quartzite below is being considered for one of our projects.

Concrete: Concrete countertops are best in contemporary spaces. Paired with warm-toned materials, concrete could strike a nice balance to a modern design. Concrete can be custom-sized and shaped; it is heat resistant, difficult to scratch, and durable if sealed regularly. These countertops are considered premium surfaces and will add value to a home. However, repairs are difficult to do.

Quartz: An engineered stone, quartz countertops rival granite and quartzite in durability. Quartz has the most options as far as colors and patterns go, but some might say it lacks the unique organic quality of natural stone. Quartz has many benefits for a space that is in constant use, such as being easy to clean and requiring less maintenance—it doesn’t need to be sealed—than its counterparts. The nonporous surface of quartz is stain, heat and scratch resistant. And many manufacturers are using reclaimed or recycled stone, glass, and other materials to create their products.

Porcelain: Porcelain countertops are becoming increasingly more popular because of its aesthetic qualities, with some designs having a remarkable resemblance to marble, and durability. Porcelain is made of clay, natural and recyclable, with a high mineral content that is fired at extremely high temperatures, creating a dense material generally impervious to stains, heat, UV rays, and scratches. Designs are printed on the top surface so edging has to be taken into consideration. Porcelain is not a common material, making the market a bit more limited.

One extra type of countertop to consider...

Paper composite: Paper composite countertops are made of wood-based fibers and non-petroleum resins, which are baked at a high heat to create a durable and eco-friendly material for countertops. They are easy to install, low maintenance, and affordable. However, paper composite is not as heat resistant as stone and can scorch. Due to the resin, the material is not recyclable but can be cut and reused. Because of the sustainability aspect of paper composite, manufacturers set high green standards, committing to low emissions of VOCs, obtaining FSC certification, and following Greenhouse Gas Protocol.