The Pros and Cons of Different Countertop Materials

Of all the rooms in your home, you may spend the most active time in the kitchen. Aside from preparing meals and eating, you come here to visit as a family and to entertain guests. Having the right kitchen countertops can make a big difference in how you use and view this space. Sometimes, it’s challenging to select a type of countertop that works best in your kitchen. It’s helpful to see what’s available and to choose what fits your needs.

Granite

In the last decade or so, this has become one of the most popular styles to use for countertops. This stone material is durable and comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. It’s easy to select something that looks good with the rest of your kitchen and home. Cleaning these kitchen countertops is a breeze too. You’ll usually only need a cloth, water a little soap to remove debris or liquid from the surface. It can be a little more costly than other options.

Stainless Steel

These countertops should stand the test of time and hold up to lots of abuse. You can use bleach to clean stainless steel, and it won’t succumb to heat. However, stainless steel is prone to scratches and dents. It takes more maintenance to keep it looking nice.

Wood

Wood countertops add an element of charm and character to your kitchen. This style will work well in cabins and cottages. You can cut your food right on the surface instead of using a cutting board. On the downside, wood is porous, so bacteria can easily hide inside.

Laminate

Once perhaps the top choice, laminate is still a go-to when it comes to kitchen countertops. It’s less expensive than many of its counterparts. It will resist stains and comes in a variety of colors. Be aware, however, that laminate is not easily repairable.

If you’re in the market for new countertops, think about these choices. Each one has benefits and drawbacks.