COUNTERTOP

cific times you can plan to be away from your home.”

Of course, quartz isn’t the only quality countertop material worth considering. Check out some popular alternatives, including:

Granite – a durable and highly customizable option that typically costs between $10 and $140 per square foot, per Angi, depending on the slab you choose.

Marble – a beautiful and durable material that costs between $15 and $190 per square foot.

Tile – which comes in a variety of patterns and colors but requires regular grout cleaning and maintenance; expect to pay between $0.50 and $40 per square foot.

Stainless steel – a stain-resistant and durable choice that costs between $70 and $215 per square foot.

Concrete – which comes in a variety of styles and colors but requires more maintenance than other options; expect to shell out $50-$100 per square foot.

Soapstone – a stain-resistant and low-maintenance option that may not be as durable as other materials; count on paying between $20 and $70 per square foot.

Wood – a customizable and unique material that requires extra maintenance; $60 and $100 per square foot is the average most homeowners pay.

Laminate – likely the most affordable choice but a less durable one that needs to be treated carefully; expect to pay $8 to $27 per square foot.

If you feel strongly that quartz should be avoided and you are concerned about the health of quartz fabricators and installers, “you can always vote with your wallet and avoid patronizing countertop manufacturers that allow their workers to be exposed to silica dust,” advises Borcherding.

GETTY IMAGES Granite is a durable and distinctive countertop material with many customizable options. Granite countertops typically cost between $10 and $140 per square foot.