Types Of Kitchen Countertops: Pros And Cons
With so many different countertop material types and prices to compare, choosing the right kitchen countertops can be challenging. Did you know that even though granite countertops can withstand heat and scratches, they still require sealing every few years?
If you want a clear comparison of countertop materials to determine which one is best for your needs, continue reading
Important Takeaways
- Granite, marble, quartz, wood, laminate, stainless steel, and recycled glass are just a few of the various types of kitchen countertops available. Each type has advantages and disadvantages related to price, style, and maintenance requirements.
- Granite countertops range in price from PHP 3000 to PHP 5000 per sqm. Although they are resistant to heat and scratches, they must be sealed every few years to prevent stains.
- Quartz is stain-resistant and nonporous. It may be harmed by hot pans, but it costs between PHP 5000 to PHP10,000 per sqm.
- Natural stone is more expensive than less expensive alternatives like laminate. Although laminate is simple to clean, if not handled carefully, it can easily chip or scratch.
- Bamboo and recycled glass are environmentally friendly options. Although they may have scratches or be more difficult to locate in stores, these are beneficial for the environment.
Contents
Natural Stone Countertop Types
Granite, marble, and soapstone are among the materials used to create natural stone counters, which are notable for their strength and beauty. Although these surfaces can add flair to any kitchen, there are trade-offs associated with each one, including price, maintenance requirements, and stain and heat resistance.
What are marble countertops’ benefits and drawbacks?
Marble worktops provide distinctive designs that make kitchens pop. The unique appearance of each slab raises the value of your house. This metamorphic stone withstands heat from pots and pans and feels cool.
It also works well for cutting boards or baking stations.
Marble can be expensive, at PHP 8000 per sqm, so it might not be within everyone’s means. Because marble is porous, it must be sealed every three to twelve months to prevent stains from substances like wine or vinegar.
While abrasive pads readily scratch the surface, acidic cleaning solutions can etch. In terms of cost and level of care, marble requires more maintenance than engineered quartz or granite countertop materials.
Marble gets a patina over time – that soft sheen, subtle darkening, or light etching that appears over time; some people like this timeless appearance, while others prefer the original sheen.
What benefits and drawbacks do granite countertops offer?
Granite and marble countertops are both common options for kitchens, and each has special qualities. Granite worktops are unique due to their resistance to heat and scratches. Granite is popular because it comes in a variety of colors and patterns that complement a variety of backsplashes and kitchen designs.
During a sale, realtors frequently bring up the fact that installing granite increases the value of your house.
Although porous, this natural stone is long-lasting. Granite must be resealed every three to five years to prevent stains from spills on kitchen counters or around sinks. If your cabinets are made of plywood, you should be careful around the edges because dropping heavy cookware can chip or crack the surface.
Granite countertop installation costs range from PHP3000 toPHP5000 per sqm, which places it in the moderate-to-high price range when compared to solid surface options like Corian or laminate or engineered stone like quartzite.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of soapstone countertops?
Countertops made of soapstone are classic and work well in a variety of kitchens. The surface has a traditional gray color and feels soft and smooth. Because soapstone is non-porous, spills do not seep in, requiring little upkeep.
It is easily cleaned with water and mild soap. Because of its high heat resistance, you can safely set hot pans directly on this kind of natural stone.
Unlike granite or quartz countertops, the majority of soapstone slabs are gray or greenish-gray in color, which restricts your color options. Because soapstone is softer than granite and quartz, heavy cookware dropping on it is more likely to cause scratches or dents.
Heavy wear may eventually show, but scratches can be repaired by sanding them out. Among the countertop types that are currently available, soapstone prices range moderately.
What are the pros and cons of limestone countertops?
Any kitchen looks cozier and more distinctive with limestone countertops. Subtle veining adds a touch of elegance to each slab. This natural stone is safe to use with hot pots and pans because it manages heat well.
To prevent food or drink stains, limestone’s porous surface needs to be sealed frequently. Because limestone is softer than granite or quartz, heavy cookware will cause it to chip and scratch more easily.
Acidic foods, such as lemon juice, can cause surface etching. Limestone might be a good choice for your area if you want timeless beauty but don’t mind more maintenance than engineered stones.
Engineered Stone Countertops
Read on to find out which features of engineered stone countertops—like quartz and ultra-compact surfaces—work best for your kitchen. These countertops come in a variety of colors and are easy to maintain.
What Benefits and Drawbacks Do Quartz Countertops Offer?
Quartz countertop surfaces have a uniform appearance and are available in a wide range of colors and patterns. The nonporous nature of the material prevents it from absorbing moisture and spills.
Quartz is easy to maintain in busy kitchens because it doesn’t require sealing.
Quartz is resistant to tough kitchen messes, stains, and scratches. Its simple design raises the value of your house. However, quartz can be heat-sensitive, so placing hot pans directly on top of it from the oven or stove could harm the surface.
Quartz requires less maintenance over time than natural stone like slate or limestone, but it is more costly than laminate alternatives like particleboard.
What Advantages and Disadvantages Do Ultra-Compact Quartz Countertops Offer?
Dekton and Neolith are examples of ultra-compact quartz countertops that are incredibly hard. They are resistant to heat, UV light, stains, and scratches. You don’t have to worry about sun damage when using them in outdoor spaces or indoor kitchens.
These surfaces easily fit most styles because they are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Simply wipe with water or a mild cleaner for easy maintenance.
Compared to other engineered stone options, these countertop slabs are more expensive. Because of the weight and specialized tools required, professional installation is essential; do-it-yourself is not advised.
However, if your budget permits it, their longevity frequently makes the higher cost justified.
Solid-Surface Countertops
Find out if solid-surface countertops, such as Formica and Corian, are right for you by reading on. They have smooth finishes, are easy to clean, and have hidden seams.
What are the pros and cons of using solid-surface countertops for your kitchen?
Kitchens with solid-surface countertops appear smooth and uncluttered. Spills are quickly cleaned up because they don’t absorb water or stains. People appreciate that you can fix chips and scratches at home using basic tools.
The surface is easy to shape for sinks or curves, and you can choose from a wide variety of colors and finishes to fit your style.
Compared to materials like granite or stainless steel, heat resistance is lower. If hot pots are set directly on the counter, they may leave marks. Additionally, scratches are more likely to appear, particularly in busy kitchens where heavy use occurs.
The organic texture of stone surfaces like marble, quartz, or limestone is frequently absent from these counters. Instead of going for a natural look, many people opt for solid-surface counters because they are easy to maintain.
Laminate Countertops
Laminate worktops are available in a wide range of hues and designs to complement any kitchen design. These surfaces are stain-resistant and simple to clean with soap and water, thanks to modern technology.
What benefits and drawbacks do laminate countertops have?
Compared to natural stone, laminate countertops are less expensive. They are less expensive and can resemble wood or granite, making them ideal for tight budgets. These surfaces are easy to match with stainless steel sinks or ceramic tiles because they are available in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and textures.
Because the top layer is non-porous, spills are quickly cleaned up without the need for special cleaners.
People appreciate that you can install these tops yourself because it saves labor costs. However, they can melt if hot pans are placed on them, and they scratch more easily than granite or quartz. Because laminate is not completely solid, chips can occasionally reveal the wood underneath.
Laminate countertops cost between Php 1,500 per sqm. to Php 3,000 per sqm. Even though this option is inexpensive, it might not add as much value to your house as more expensive options like recycled-glass counters.
Wood and Butcher Block Countertop Types
Because wood countertops are made of materials like maple or oak, they add coziness and a natural feel. Butcher block designs add style and functionality to kitchens by providing convenient areas for chopping and preparation.
What Are Wood Countertops’ Benefits and Drawbacks?
Any kitchen is made cozier and more charming with solid wood countertops. They feel nice in your hands, have a natural appearance, and are simple to customize. Because they function well as a large cutting board, they are frequently used for food prep.
They are an affordable option because their prices range from Php1200 per sqm for wood laminates to 8000 per sqm for solid wood.
Because wood is porous, these countertops require routine sealing. If spills are left for too long, they can soak in. Scratches and dents are common; careless use of sharp knives or dropping pans can leave marks.
Hot pots placed directly on wood may cause burns or discolorations because wood does not tolerate heat well. Even with frequent flooring changes or changes in glazes used elsewhere in the kitchen, proper maintenance helps keep them looking fantastic year after year.
Types of Concrete Countertops
Concrete countertops provide a striking, contemporary look; discover how sealers, stains, and polished finishes can produce distinctive kitchen surfaces.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Concrete Countertops?
With concrete countertops, you can achieve a seamless appearance. This option fits a variety of kitchen styles and is highly customizable. It withstands heat well, which is advantageous if you cook frequently. You won’t need new counters anytime soon because it lasts a long time.
Due to the high cost of installation, concrete may cost more than other materials. Because of the slab’s weight, your cabinets may require additional support. Even with proper care, hairline cracks can develop over time.
Particularly for unglazed finishes, you must seal the surface frequently to prevent stains from spreading quickly.
The next option for home kitchens is engineered stone.
Stainless Steel Countertops
Counter surfaces made of stainless steel resist heat and stains well and give kitchens a contemporary, industrial appearance. However, compared to other materials like laminate or hardwood, they are more susceptible to scratches and fingerprints.
What are the pros and cons of stainless steel countertops?
Countertops made of stainless steel are popular because their antimicrobial properties, heat resistance, and ease of cleaning with soap and water make them popular among chefs. They are long-lasting and all these prioperties understandably make stainless steel countertops the material of choice for commercial kitchens. The price of stainless steel countertops are at PHP 20,000 per sqm.
Many people observe that these counters are prone to scratches. You must wipe them frequently because water stains appear quickly.
Check stainless steel fabricators nearest you.
Our Overall Recommendation
Balancing function and feature, quartz is a great kitchen countertop. It is nonporous and does not require resealing. Its tough material makes it resistant to stains, scratches, and heat-resistant under normal regular conditions. We recommend using trivets to protect its surface from extreme heat. It may be more expensive than most in the list, but its durability makes it a good kitchen investment.
Check out countertops installers nearest your location.