Countertops 101
Everything you need to know about trending, cottage-friendly countertop materials, at your fingertips.
When it comes to renovating a kitchen or bathroom, there’s a lot to think through.
The surfaces where you get ready for the day or prepare meals need to be functional workspaces. They create an environment and set a tone, so finding the perfect style and design is a priority. Here we give you all the details on today’s trending countertop materials, including pricing, durability and maintenance tips. Take a quick inventory in your mind, think about your needs, and read on to find the perfect countertop material for your home. 1. Marble AVERAGE COST: $50–$100 per sq. ft. The natural veining and shine of this stone means no two are alike. With a variety of colors and finishes, marble brings an inimitable depth and elegance. Handpick your design for the price that suits your budget. With the exception of high-end marble, such as Italian Calacatta, most marble is moderately priced. The strong stone withstands daily wear and tear, and resists high temperatures. However, if it gets scratched or chipped, repairs are costly. Marble is susceptible to acid etching and staining too, so be ready to embrace imperfections. Use a reputable stone fabricator to install your marble countertops to help prevent future damage. CARE AND MAINTENANCE:
• Blot spills with a paper towel, apply water and mild soap to flush the liquid away, and rinse and dry.
• For tough stains, a baking soda poultice may be substituted for soap. • Reseal every 1–3 years.
BEST FOR: Bringing individualized style and timeless appeal into
the home.
2. Granite
AVERAGE COST: $50–$170 per sq. ft. Granite offers the most exotic color and design options on the market. It is considered to be scratch- and heat-resistant, water-sealed and easy to clean. Leaving hot pans on the surface or cutting directly on granite is not recommended. But it is unlikely to crack or chip. These
benefits do come at a price, however, as granite is one of the most expensive countertop materials today. But once purchased, the material requires minimal upkeep and repairs. CARE AND MAINTENANCE:
• Use water to wipe up spills. For periodic cleaning, use a gentle stone cleaner.
• For tough stains, a baking soda poultice may be substituted for soap. • Reseal every 3–5 years.
BEST FOR: Investing in lifelong beauty. Bonus: Its durability makes it a fantastic choice for an avid baker.
3. Quartz
AVERAGE COST: $40–$100 per sq. ft. Quartz, often referred to as engineered stone, is a manmade material that offers uniformity in its design. It is available in many colors and can mimic the look of a natural stone countertop. Durable and nonporous, quartz is stainproof, crack-resistant and heat-resistant. In fact, quartz does not need to be resealed, waxed or polished. If you’re skeptical about the price, remember that quartz requires little maintenance and few repairs. Tip: Although quartz and quartzite sound similar, quartzite is porous and must be resealed annually. CARE AND MAINTENANCE:
• Clean with water, mild soap and a soft cloth or sponge.
• Use a glass or surface cleaner to get rid of the tougher stains.
BEST FOR: An easy-care solution and unique design.