Countertops have a pretty important job to do in the kitchen. They carry a lot of style weight, need to perform well to withstand lots of use, and should coordinate with all of the other finishes in your kitchen to create a beautiful space.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which material suits your needs best. We're here to lay it all out so you can go into your meeting with your design-build team with the right information to make the best decision for your kitchen.
What is the Best Material to Use for Kitchen Countertops?
Selecting the right material for your kitchen countertops depends on your lifestyle, budget, and personal taste. Here are some of the top countertop options to consider:
Quartz
Quartz countertops are highly popular due to their durability and low maintenance. They resist stains and scratches, making them perfect for busy kitchens. With a wide range of colors and this material's ability to mimic natural stone veining, quartz offers a high-end look without the upkeep. Its impressive variety of colors and styles means there's a quartz countertop for any kitchen design!
Quartz is non-porous, so it doesn't harbor bacteria, and it doesn’t require sealing, simplifying maintenance. Costs range from $50 to $150 per square foot, including installation, making quartz a great investment for its durability and beauty.
Marble
Marble is a timeless choice and crowd favorite, known for its luxurious appearance. It’s heat resistant and comes in beautiful natural patterns, adding elegance to any kitchen. However, marble is prone to staining and scratching, requiring regular sealing and maintenance. Acidic substances can etch the surface, so it's best for areas with less heavy use to maintain its pristine look.
Marble typically costs between $60 to $100 per square foot, including installation. Despite the maintenance demands, its unmatched beauty makes it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.
Concrete
Concrete countertops offer a modern, industrial look. They are highly customizable in terms of color and texture. Add stain and glass or marble chips to add dimension and personality.
Concrete is highly durable but requires regular sealing to prevent stains and cracks. Keep in mind, though, that it's prone to developing hairline cracks over time. The cost varies widely, from $65 to $135 per square foot, depending on customization.
Tile
Tile countertops are a versatile and budget-friendly option. They come in countless styles, colors, and patterns. Tiles are heat resistant and easy to replace if damaged. However, grout lines can be challenging to keep clean and may require periodic sealing. Tile countertops can cost between $10 to $50 per square foot, making them an affordable choice.
Terrazzo
Terrazzo countertops are making a comeback with their unique, speckled appearance. They’re durable and can be customized with different colors and materials. If you're interested in midcentury modern or contemporary kitchen designs, terrazzo can give you that focal point you're looking for! However, terrazzo requires regular sealing to maintain its look and prevent stains. The cost typically ranges from $50 to $100 per square foot.
Granite
Granite is a popular choice for its natural beauty and durability. When granite is mentioned, homeowners typically picture the dark and highly-speckled material that was popular decades ago. Granite is actually available in more subdued patterns that are very popular with homeowners today.
Granite is heat resistant but requires periodic sealing to prevent stains and scratches. At $40 to $100 per square foot, granite adds a touch of elegance at a manageable price.
Butcher Block
Butcher block countertops provide a warm, natural look. They’re excellent for food preparation, especially chopping and baking. They require regular oiling to prevent drying out and staining, so many homeowners prefer to use them on the island as a standout feature rather than on every surface.
Butcher block is susceptible to scratches and dents but can be sanded down to restore its finish. The cost is usually between $30 to $100 per square foot, making it a charming and functional choice.
What is the Best Countertop to Use in a Kitchen?
Quartz is often considered the best choice for kitchen countertops due to its durability, variety of styles, and low maintenance. It fits a range of budgets, offers many color options, and can mimic the look of marble but with much better durability.
What Countertops Offer the Best Value?
For homeowners looking for value, tile countertops offer great affordability and variety. Tile is also economical and allows for creative patterns. While tile countertops require some maintenance, they provide excellent value for their cost.
For those wanting natural stone, granite offers a balance of cost and quality, making it a solid mid-range choice.
What are the Most Popular Kitchen Countertop Ideas Right Now?
Current trends in kitchen countertops focus on both functionality and style. Here are some of the top ideas to inspire your kitchen remodel design.
Choosing Your Counter Depth
Playing with countertop depths can add interest and functionality. Standard depth is about 25 inches, but extending it to 30 inches can provide more workspace. Varying depths, especially for islands, can create unique zones for cooking and socializing. This flexibility allows for a tailored kitchen experience.
Play with Counter Thickness
Counter thickness can change the look of your kitchen. Thicker counters like butcher block add a sturdy, substantial feel. Thinner options like quartz can give a sleek, modern look. Adjusting thickness helps match the countertop with the overall kitchen aesthetic, enhancing its design.
Run Your Countertop Material Up Your Backsplash
Using the same material for both your countertop and backsplash creates a seamless, sophisticated look. Slab backsplashes are not only easy to clean but also provide a cohesive design. This trend is popular for its simplicity and elegance, making kitchens look polished and stylish. You can achieve this look with almost any material, but many choose quartz or marble.
Bold and Unique Veining
Veining in countertops can vary from whispy and light to striking and bold. Types include spiderweb, breccia, feathered, and linear. These veining styles add character and can either make your countertops the focal point of the kitchen or a subtle addition that melds with its surroundings. Work with your design-build team to choose the best veining for your kitchen design goals.
Lowered Counter for Baking
Lowering a section of your countertop can create a dedicated baking area. This design is perfect for those who love to make doughs and crusts from scratch, providing an ideal surface and height. It adds both functionality and customization to your kitchen.
Butcher Block
Incorporating a butcher block section into your countertop offers a dedicated area for chopping and food prep. It blends functionality with natural beauty, providing a practical and aesthetic addition to your kitchen.
Different Island and Perimeter Materials
Using different materials for your island and perimeter countertops can add depth and interest. For example, a butcher block island paired with granite perimeter counters creates a dynamic look. This approach allows for more creativity and personalization in your kitchen design.
Countertop Edge Profiles
Custom countertop edges can elevate the look of your kitchen. Softer, rounder edges are trending, adding a smooth finish. Other options include the classic ogee, elegant cove, and the detailed triple bullnose. Choosing an interesting profile adds to the overall composition of your kitchen, making your design feel even more custom.
How to Choose the Best Countertop and Design for Your Kitchen
Choosing the right countertop involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your needs and complements your kitchen design.
Consider How You Use Your Kitchen
Think about how you use your kitchen. If you cook often, durable and heat-resistant materials like granite, quartz, or butcher block are ideal. For bakers, marble provides a cool surface for dough. For those who entertain, easy-to-clean surfaces are a must.
Consider Who Uses Your Kitchen
If kids often like to help out in the kitchen, durable and stain-resistant materials like quartz are great. For accessibility, ensure countertops are at varying heights so anyone can use the space comfortably and safely. Different users may have unique needs, so choose materials and designs that accommodate everyone in the household.
Consider Your Kitchen's Color Palette
Coordinate your countertop with existing colors in your kitchen. Are you giving your kitchen a fresh start? Work with your design-build team to create a color story so the entire space feels cohesive.
If your cabinets are dark, lighter countertops can brighten the space by carrying light throughout your kitchen. For neutral cabinets, bold countertop colors or heavy veining can add interest.
Consider Cabinet Design Styles
Coordinate your countertop and your cabinet style. Sleek, flat-front cabinets pair well with materials like quartz or marble. Traditional cabinets look great with granite or butcher block. Not sure what styles complement one another? Spend some time to peruse online design boards or style blogs and take a closer look at what designers are pairing together.
Need Some Help? A Design-Build Team Can Help!
Choosing the best kitchen countertop for your New Jersey home involves balancing style, functionality, and budget. With options ranging from durable quartz to charming butcher block, there’s a perfect countertop for every kitchen.
By working with a design-build team, where your designer and builder are under one roof, your style and budget can work in harmony from the start. For personalized advice and expert guidance, the team at JMC Home Improvement Specialists is here to help you every step of the way. Get in touch for a quick consultation!
Want to break down the costs even further? Access our FREE cost guide below!
