Countertops are a major consideration for many home builders and homeowners. They provide the perfect backdrop for your kitchen, bathroom, or bar area.
However, they can also be costly to select and install on your project! The cost of countertop materials varies depending on what you’re looking for, but one thing is certain: there are plenty of options out there.
We’ve compiled the most common considerations and prices in this article so you can weigh your options and find the countertop that’s right for you!
1. Bamboo Countertop
Bamboo countertops can be made with bamboo sheets or a 3D-printed material. The sheets are glued and bonded to the countertop frame, and the 3D-printed material is molded and then glued to the frame.
Maintenance of Bamboo Countertop
It is important to keep the counter clean and protected from stains. Bamboo countertops are usually finished with resin or oil to protect the bamboo from stains.
Cost of Bamboo Countertops
Bamboo countertops are available in many price ranges. The average total cost per square foot is between $35-$55.
You can buy an all-wood kitchen countertop that is five feet long and cost $500. A bamboo countertop that is two inches thick and lumber construction and cost $769.
Pros
– Affordable. Their prices run between $500 and $3,500.
– Durable and sturdy during everyday use.
– It is a renewable resource that can be harvested sustainably.
– It can be incorporated into a green lifestyle.
Cons
– Light in weight, and they tend to move around during use.
– Can be damaged by temperature extremes.
– Vulnerable to water damage.
2. Concrete Counters
Concrete counters are made using concrete and stone mixture as the primary ingredient to produce solid, hard surface material. This material is much heavier than your normal countertops, and you have to make sure that there is a strong plaster to support its weight.
Maintenance of Concrete Counters
Concrete counters are durable material, and it is hard to damage them, but there are some things that you have to be aware of. If you place hot or cold materials directly on the top of the counter, you will end up cracking or damaging your counter.
Concrete counters usually come with a thin layer of marble, granite, or tile. This layer is to remove and move and replace easily if the top surface has dents or scratches.
Cost of Concrete Countertops
The cost ranges from $65 to $135 per square foot. This is the price that you have to pay for the countertop material itself. There are other costs like installation, supplies, and labor that you might end up having to pay.
Pros
– The concrete countertops are scratch-resistant.
– The concrete countertops are also dishwasher friendly.
– It is fireproof.
Cons
– The concrete countertops are extremely heavy and hard to move around.
– They need to be fixed in with a mortar.
3. Engineered Quartz Countertop
It is also known as Engineered Quartz Countertop because of the manufacturing process that is used. This type of countertop has fine stone particles that are contained in a polyester resin.
A base is added to the mixture to help in drilling, polishing, and coloring. The stone particles are then sprayed on a slab of glass while the resin is curing. The size of the particles will define the thickness of the countertop.
Maintenance of Engineered Quartz Countertop
This type of countertop is easy to maintain. The surface can be kept clean with just a glass of water and a cloth. You may also use soap-free cleaners and warm water for cleaning, with mild soap at the end to rinse.
Cost of Engineered Quartz Countertop
Engineered Quartz Countertop is usually more expensive than granite because you are buying the countertop and the glass slab at the same time.
Generally, quartz engineered costs anywhere between $70 and $120 per square foot installed.
Pros
-Looks like granite but is more durable.
-Can be cut to fit your space better than granite.
Cons
-More expensive than granite. (this depends on the cost of a slab)
-It is not UV resistant, so that it will show scratches with time.
4. Granite Countertop
Granite is a stone with a tough surface. It is one of the most often used countertops chosen by customers because of its beauty, strength, and durability. Granite is available in a variety of colors and patterns.
Maintenance of Granite Countertop
Maintenance will depend on the material used. For example, marble countertops need periodic cleaning and polishing. Solid surfaces, however, like granite, are highly durable and do not need to be cleaned often.
Cost of Granite Countertop
The price of a granite countertop ranges from $40 to $200 per square foot. It depends on the granite color and pattern.
Homeowners who choose granite countertops choose them for their beautiful appearance. They are looking for something that looks like stone but is more durable and does not need to be cleaned often.
Pros
– Well-fitting countertops are a must for new homes.
– It is easier to cut granite than other materials.
– It has a smooth surface that is easy to clean.
– Granite countertop can be applied in wet and dry areas of the home.
Cons
– Granite is a natural stone, so the colors and pattern will vary from slab to slab.
– Granite needs to be sealed, polished, and resealed every year to prevent it from staining.
– Granite is a natural stone, so it is expensive than other materials.
– Granite is scratch resistant but not scratch proof.
5. Laminate Counters
The laminate counter is a solid surface. It has one layer of the countertop, and this layer has a laminate finish. It is also made from solid stone, plastic, metal, or wood.
Maintenance of Laminate Counter
Unlike solid surface countertops, the laminate must be maintained regularly to be cleaned easily and polished for a new look.
Cost of Laminate Counter
The cost of a laminate countertop varies from place to place. This will depend on the price of materials used, workplace setup, and installation jobs.
The price is between $100 and $300 per square foot, while solid surface countertops cost between $60 and $450 per square foot.
Pros
– Lightweight.
– Easily maintained.
– Easy to clean.
– Has a smooth surface that does not splinter or crack like ceramic or stone laminate.
Cons
– Expensive.
– Laminate cost more than the price of a solid surface countertop.
– Not as durable as a solid surface countertop.
6. Lava Stone Countertop
Lava stones are actually some of the most ancient stones. The name “lava stone” is derived from the Hawaiian word for lava, “lapa.”
Lava Stones were often used as a kitchen countertop in ancient times. The lava stones were mined and solidified in the ocean. They are a type of basalt, which is an extrusive igneous rock.
There are two types of lava stone countertops. The first type is called “black lava stone” and has a rough appearance. This texture is caused by the cooling down of these rocks at a speedy rate in the earth. The other type of countertop is called “pink marble” and has been polished to give it a smooth finish.
Maintenance of Lava Stone Countertops
The most common types of lava stone countertops are straightforward to clean. Lava stone is generally made of basalt, which means they have a similar hardness to granite.
Lava stone countertops will resist most stains. However, you should avoid red wine, chocolate, coffee, tea, and other acidic foods. Be sure to wipe up liquids that may spill onto the countertop quickly.
Cost of Lava Stone Countertops
The cost of the lava stone countertops depends on the size of the countertop. The average cost is between $250-$300 per square foot. It is more expensive if the countertop is bigger or needs to change an existing countertop to the lava stone.
Pros
-Easy to maintain
-Long-lasting
-Looks beautiful
-Natural appearance
Cons
-Lava stones are porous so that moisture may seep through. Moisture causes corrosion on the surface of the counter.
-Small pieces of lava stones may be more susceptible to bacteria and harmful bacteria.
-Lava stone countertops are not as easy to clean as granite.
7. Limestone Countertop
Limestone is an ideal choice for kitchen countertops because of its durability and style. A limestone countertop is made from compressed limestone with a powdery finish.
Limestone is known for its ability to withstand the test of time, making it a classic choice for homeowners. A limestone countertop is also easy to clean.
Maintenance of Limestone Countertop
Limestone is a fairly durable material, making it less susceptible to damage than other materials.
It’s also fairly easy to clean as well. This is why many homeowners choose limestone for their kitchen countertops.
Cost of Limestone Countertop
To install an average limestone countertop, you will need to spend around $70 minimum. This is roughly the cost per square foot of a stone surface.
The cost of installing limestone flooring can range from around up to $200 per square foot, depending on many factors.
Pros
– Durable material
– Easy to clean
– Elegant and classic look
– Stable and consistent surface
Cons
– Expensive compared to other materials such as granite, marble, or wood.
– More difficult to install when compared to other materials.
8. Marble Countertops
A marble is a rock composed of calcite or aragonite. It was first used as countertops in Biblical times. Marble has long been used for architectural purposes such as floors, columns, walls, and tombstones.
The use of marble as a countertop stands on its high strength. In fact, marble is one of the strongest and toughest materials in building construction. It has been used since the early 1900s as a countertop material.
Maintenance of Marble Countertops
Maintenance of marble countertops is quite easy. You just need to wash it with water and soap, then use a soft cloth to dry the counter. Always make sure you clean the countertop after using it.
Cost of Marble Countertops
The cost of marble countertops is variant. The range is from $40 to $200 per square foot. Prices can be affected by the size, quality, and location of the stone.
Additionally, polishing marble is a time-consuming process and, therefore, more expensive.
Pros
– Beautiful
– High strength
– Durable
– Easily cleanable
– Waterproof
Cons
– Expensive
– Time-consuming
9. Porcelain Countertop
Porcelain countertops are made of porcelain material and have an appearance similar to marble. It is distinguished by the fact that it is smooth, polished, and has low reflectivity.
Maintenance of Porcelain Countertop
One of the main advantages of porcelain countertops is that it is effortless to maintain. As long as you use a gentle sponge or an approved cleaner to clean it, you can effectively remove stains and marks.
Cost of Porcelain Countertop
This item is costly, with a cost range of $50-$150 per square foot installed, making it a popular choice for those willing to pay for the best quality countertop.
Pros
-Beautiful and elegant styling
-Easy to maintain
Cons
-Expensive
-Vulnerable to heat
10. Reclaimed Wood Countertop
The reclaimed wood countertop is the newest trend in the home décor industry. The reclaimed wood countertop brings an impressive look and gives the kitchen a touch of sophistication and character. Reclaimed wood countertops can be used in both residential and commercial kitchens.
Maintenance of Reclaimed Wood Countertop
The reclaimed wood countertops need to be maintained to retain good looks. They should not be cleaned with a harsh, abrasive cleaner. The best way to clean the countertops is by using a soft cloth and warm water to wipe clean.
Cost of Reclaimed Wood Countertop
The prices of reclaimed wood countertops are directly proportional to the cost of reclaimed wood. Smaller pieces of wood are more expensive than bigger pieces.
The estimated cost of reclaimed wood countertops is between $30 and $140 per square foot.
Pros
– The reclaimed wood countertops have a warm, natural look
– Reclaimed wood countertops are eco-friendly as well as easily accessible
Cons
It is difficult to replicate a reclaimed wood countertop style, which can be a disadvantage for first-time buyers.
11. Recycled Glass Countertops
Recycled glass countertops are the most recent innovation in modern kitchen design.
Recycled glass adds an elegant look to the kitchen, and it is also easy to clean and maintain.
Many people are concerned about disposing of their waste in landfills.
Maintenance of Recycled Glass Countertops
You can clean the recycled glass countertop with regular soap and water.
The recycled glass is also easy to replace or repair if it gets chipped or broken.
Cost of Recycled Glass Countertops
Recycled glass is a less costly alternative to stone or acrylic countertops.
Other traditional countertop materials such as granite or wood have a steeper cost, but they are also durable and long-lasting.
Currently, it is usually priced between $50 and $80 per square foot without installation.
Pros
-Environmentally friendly recycling reduces landfill waste in the United States.
-less expensive than other countertop materials.
Attractive appearance compared with granite or another natural stones-convenience of recycling is widely available with glass recycling establishments.
Cons
-Styles may not match exactly with yours.
-Usually, recycled glass countertops are made to order, so it might take 3 weeks to 1 month to get the countertop installed.
12. Slate Countertop
A slate countertop is a very durable kind of natural stone that can resist scratches and stains. Generally, these countertops are perfect for kitchens where there are young kids and pets.
Slate countertops can last for decades without getting damaged. Slate also comes in different colors like black, brown, green, and gray.
Maintenance of Slate Countertop
It’s effortless to clean the slate countertop. All you need is warm water and mild soap. No abrasive sponge or cleaning chemicals should be used. Slate countertops can be cleaned using liquid dishwashing detergent and diluted white vinegar.
Cost of Slate Countertop
They are about $50-$65 per square foot. Their prices go up by $10-$20 per square foot when it comes to kitchen cabinets. With such an affordable price tag, you can’t go wrong with slate countertops.
Pros
-They are very durable.
-They can withstand very high temperatures.
-They’re less expensive than granite or marble.
-The slate can come in different colors and textures, making them more interesting than traditional granite or marble.
Cons
-They are a bit harder to install than other countertops.
-They’re not as luxurious or beautiful as marble or granite.
13. Soapstone Countertop
Soapstone countertop is made from a naturally occurring stone called soapstone. It is produced in the form of slabs, tiles, and countertops. The soapstone comes in different colors, including red, green, and brown. These colors result from the mixture of minerals in the stone.
Maintenance of Soapstone Countertop
Soapstone countertops are highly resistant to wear and tear. The countertop remains scratch-free even in extreme weather conditions. However, the most common drawback of soapstone is that it is porous and also absorbs stains easily.
Cost of Soapstone Countertop
These countertops cost around $50 to $100 per square foot. The soapstone countertop cost will depend on the finish, color, and texture of the stone.
Pros
– Soapstone countertops are highly durable and are naturally resistant to scratches.
– They are affordable in comparison to other natural stone countertops.
– Soapstone countertops can be installed easily without the need for much-skilled labor.
Cons
– Soapstone countertops do not allow for a perfect finish as they are not smooth.
– Soapstone is highly absorptive and can stain easily. The bulkier the countertop, the more stains it will absorb.
14. Solid Surface Counter
A solid surface counter is a non-porous, scratch-resistant laminate of ceramic and resin bonded on a plastic film.
The material is very durable, has a low coefficient of friction with food, and does not absorb oils from food. It is easy to clean. It is an ideal choice for kitchen and bathroom vanity tops.
Maintenance of Solid Surface Counter
A solid surface counter is a durable material but not very maintenance-free. Stone countertops are also very durable but surprisingly have many more maintenance-related issues.
Take care of your solid surface countertops by keeping them clean with a mild detergent. Use water and a clean towel to wipe off stains.
To remove tough stains, use a pumice stone to rub away the stain, followed by cleaning with water.
Cost of Solid Surface Counter
The cost of a solid surface counter depends on its size, thickness, and color. The average price of a solid surface counter is $30 to $85 per square foot.
Pros
-Scratch-resistant
-Easy to clean
-Durable
-Nonporous
Cons
– It not very maintenance-free
-Restrictive for cooking
-Visible seam lines
-Not very heat resistant
-Can crack or warp under excessive direct sunlight
15. Stainless Steel Countertop
Stainless steel countertop is a popular choice for kitchen countertops these days. It is the most durable type of countertop material.
It is made up of metal, and its scratches do not show up because it is polished.
Besides, it can withstand heat and other conditions better than most other kitchen countertop materials.
Thus stainless steel countertops are ideal for the kitchen because, in the kitchen, there are mostly hot items.
Maintenance of Stainless Steel Countertop
Stainless steel countertops are easy to maintain. You do not have to clean or polish it frequently because it becomes scratch-resistant with regular use.
Cost of Stainless Steel Countertop
Stainless steel countertops are easy to install, but they are expensive. It runs homeowners from $70 to $215 per square foot.
They are not as expensive as granite countertops, but you need to pay more than you would for granite to get one.
Pros
– They are straightforward to clean.
– It is one of the most durable countertop materials.
– Resistant to scratches and stains.
– Can be sanitized easily.
Cons
– Expensive.
– Stainless steel countertops are heavier than most other kitchen countertop materials. This makes them harder to install and tear repair.
– They are not very good for heavy-duty staining or cooking compared to other countertops.
16. Tile Counter
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Tile countertops only have a couple of tiles on them. The tile is placed on the countertop. The countertop is used for cooking and food preparation.
Maintenance of Tile Counter
It is easy to clean the tile countertop. You just have to clean it with a sponge and warm water.
Cost of Tile Counter
Tile countertop installation costs about $35-$40 per square foot. Including materials and labor, you will end up paying about $70-$75.
Pros
– Easy to clean
– Heat resistant
Cons
– Possibility of cracking.
– The countertop is heavy because of the glazed ceramic or tiles. It takes a lot of effort to move them.
– Tile may be slippery and not good for food preparation.
17. Travertine Countertop
Travertine Countertop is a natural stone with layers, and it is produced from metamorphic limestone. It is a sedimentary rock formed in shallow seas, with the layers of sediments having mineral deposition on them.
Maintenance of Travertine Countertop
Travertine countertops can be kept year-round without having to do anything, but you should look out for any scratches or chips that might appear and take care of them immediately as they can go bad easily.
Cost of Travertine Countertop
Travertine countertops can cost anywhere between $50 to $100 depending on the quality. You can also find it in a composite form, a mixture of stone and resin to ensure that its surface does not crack too easily.
Pros
-It is more durable than most other countertops.
-It comes in a beautiful natural stone.
-Travertine countertop is affordable to most people.
Cons
-Travertine countertops are prone to scratches and chips.
18. Wood or Butcher Block Countertop
Wood or butcher block countertop is the most traditional and popular choice for a countertop. It is made from hardwood, usually oak, teak, or maple.
These countertops get their name because they are used in butcher shops as work surfaces for cutting meat.
Maintenance of Wood and Butcher Block Countertop
Because wood countertops are porous, they will absorb stains easily. To retain their beauty, you need to pre-treat them with dark wax polish or make sure they are covered with a thin and durable coating.
Cost of Wood and Butcher Block Countertop
Wood countertops are one of the most expensive choices. Butcher block countertops cost less than other materials such as granite and marble.
It costs an average of $3,500 or $40 to $100 per square foot to install a butcher block countertop. For 50 square feet of butcher block countertop, you will spend between $2,000 and $5,000.
Pros
– It is smooth and easy to clean.
– It looks natural.
Cons
– Because it is porous, it stains easily.
– It bends and cracks easily if not treated with a topcoat or waxed.
So now that you’ve finished reading this article, what do you think? Which counters are your favorite and why? We would love to hear from you in the comments below!
