Kitchen countertop materials are offered in many options according to their functionality and style. However, various materials are preferred by considering criteria such as usefulness, advantages and disadvantages. To choose the right one, it is important to compare durability, appearance, resistance and maintenance requirements.
What Is the Best Material For Kitchen Countertops?
The best material for kitchen countertops should complement the aesthetic appearance of the kitchen and meet the needs of daily use. In this context, among the kitchen countertop materials you can choose are the following:
1- Quartz
Engineered quartz is a material that complements kitchen styles and serves as an alternative to marble or granite with its elegant appearance. The product, which contains 90% quartz particles and various minerals, is generally preferred on kitchen surfaces.
Pros
- It is resistant to breakage and cracking.
- With its non porous structure, it does not leak liquid and has a low risk of staining.
Cons
- It is sensitive to heat and can be damaged when hot objects are placed on its surface.
- It has low scratch resistance.
2- Marble
Marble is among the most preferred materials extracted naturally from mineral deposits and is among the kitchen countertop materials. The material, which has veined and flat options, meets aesthetic expectations. In addition, it is preferred for its resistance to heat and being a long lasting material in general.
Pros
- Resistant to high temperatures, scratching, and cracking.
- It is preferred in modern kitchen designs with its luxurious appearance.
Cons
- It is susceptible to damage from scratches and stains.
- It is a more expensive option compared to other products on the market.
3- Granite
Granite is among the best kitchen countertop material options with its durable and hard structure. It offers flexible use as it is a product that is resistant to heat, impacts, and abrasion. Also granite countertop with a porous surface can absorb liquid and stains. To keep the surface looking well maintained, it is essential to clean it with appropriate products.
Pros
- It is resistant to high temperatures, impacts, and scratches.
- It meets aesthetic expectations with various color and pattern options.
Cons
- It is a high priced material option.
- It requires a protective surface polish at regular intervals.
4- Solid Surface Material
Solid surface material is commonly chosen due to its structure and appearance. The product is made from acrylic and resin, giving it a high level of durability. Due to its appearance, it can even be used as an alternative to natural stone among kitchen countertop materials.
Pros
- Its surface is smooth and resistant to staining.
- It has an aesthetically perfect appearance as its seams are almost invisible.
Cons
- Low defense against heat.
- It is not resistant to scratches and abrasive damage.
5- Laminates
Laminates are an easy to install and relatively inexpensive option. The product, which is obtained by heat and pressure methods, has various properties. As well as this, made of resin, plastic and particleboard, laminate complements the kitchen style with different colors and patterns.
The product makes cleaning easier thanks to its non porous surface. You should be aware that it is vulnerable to heat damage, so it should be handled with caution.
Pros
- Resistant to mold, bacteria, and stains.
- It offers a better price advantage over other materials.
Cons
- It is sensitive to scratching.
- Its service life is relatively shorter than others and it is prone to peeling.
6- Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a material that offers clean use thanks to its non porous structure. The product, which is one of the most commonly used kitchen countertop materials, is generally preferred in commercial areas. It features a surface that defends against mold and stains, ensuring long term durability. Nevertheless, you need to wipe all substances spilled on it in a short time.
Pros
- It can be easily cleaned.
- Resistant to heat and shows defense against heat damage.
Cons
- Fingerprints and water stains usually appear on the surface.
- Scratches and abrasive damage can affect it easily.
source: houzz.com
7- Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is among the countertop choices for kitchens with its hard and durable structure. The product, which is preferred for its heat resistant structure, is cut in limited sizes and can make cooking difficult. As well as this, you should also consider that it has a tendency to crack because it is fragile.
Pros
- It is an affordable option.
- It has various options in terms of color and pattern.
Cons
- It is prone to staining and especially mortar stains are difficult to wipe.
- Tile sizes are limited and have a high potential to impede its functionality.
8- Soapstone
Soapstone is a kitchen countertop material that prevents stains and offers long term use with regular maintenance. The completely non porous product prevents the penetration of water and dirt.
Soapstone damage leads to aesthetic losses over time. For this reason, you should regularly apply mineral oil to its surface once a month, especially in the first year of installation.
Pros
- The patina on the surface offers an aesthetic appearance.
- Various grain patterns and color options are available.
Cons
- Low resistance to scratches, dents, and abrasive damage.
- It takes a while for the surface to develop a natural patina.
9- Concrete
With its functional features, concrete is among the best materials for kitchen countertops options. However, the material, appreciated for its unique features, is most commonly chosen by owners of industrial and modern kitchens.
Pros
- It is resistant to heat and scratches.
- It is suitable for industrial kitchen style.
Cons
- Bacteria and stains can easily deform its structure.
- Consistent maintenance is needed.
10- Wood
Wooden kitchen countertops are made of materials such as oak, ash, and bamboo. Offering a tough and long lasting design, the alternative guarantees durability over time. However, since it has a fibrous structure, there is a risk of staining and burning easily. In addition, its appearance can be deformed over time, and needs to be sanded every two to three years.
Pros
- It has a natural texture and offers an environmentally friendly alternative.
- It offers a rustic look.
Cons
- It has a porous structure and has low resistance to bacteria.
- It should be polished and oiled frequently for its original appearance.
11- Glass
Glass is a versatile and relatively durable material. Resistant to heat, glass has a transparent surface with its appearance. However, the fragile material is not resistant to heavy and sharp objects. It is also difficult to repair when broken or cracked.
Pros
- It has a stylish and modern appearance.
- It requires low maintenance.
Cons
- Installation cost is expensive.
- Difficult to repair in case of damage.
12- Onyx
When it comes to the best countertop material for kitchen, onyx is among the options you can consider. Onyx, a durable natural stone, is ideal for luxury kitchens with its aesthetic appearance. The material, which requires special care, should be cleaned with natural stone cleaners and sealing should be applied.
Pros
- It has a light and aesthetic appearance.
- It is durable.
Cons
- It is an expensive material.
- It requires special care and cleaning.
13- Recycled
Recycled countertop materials are made from products such as glass, paper, and bamboo. Although not durable for a long time, the option is preferred because it is environmentally friendly. It also offers an ideal choice for inexpensive kitchen countertop materials.
Pros
- It offers an environmentally friendly solution.
- Affordable price.
Cons
- It is not resistant to heat and impacts.
- It does not promise long use.
14- Acrylic
Acrylic based materials are manufactured from acrylic resin and mineral fillers. The product, designed with seamless joints, delivers a sleek and uniform surface. In addition, it adapts to many kitchen styles with a variety of colors and patterns.
Pros
- It is possible to find many different color and pattern options.
- It has a smooth surface.
Cons
- Sensitive to high temperatures.
- It withstands scratches and heavy impacts with ease.
15- Zinc
Zinc is a rust resistant and durable option. It offers a hygienic use in the kitchen with its antimicrobial properties. Zinc, which is resistant to water, moisture, and most chemicals, darkens over time. The surface develops a patina as a consequence.
Pros
- It adapts to modern and rustic kitchen styles.
- It shows heat resistance.
Cons
- It is sensitive to scratches.
- It has a tendency to deform when exposed to harsh impacts.
FAQs About Kitchen Countertops Materials
You can find frequently asked questions and answers on this topic further down the page.
What is the most durable kitchen countertop material?
The most durable kitchen countertop materials include many products depending on the need and frequency of use. One product in this range is quartz, a natural stone. Quartz, which emerged with the power of man and nature, offers a durable use for kitchen countertops.
Which is better quartz or granite?
Quartz and granite, both kitchen countertop materials, excel over each other in certain aspects. Heat resistance is a defining characteristic of granite. Quartz, on the other hand, excels because it is a longer lasting material.
What is the easiest countertop material to maintain?
In terms of maintenance, quartz is the most hassle free surface for kitchen countertops materials. Since it has a non porous structure, it does not absorb liquid and does not stain.
What is the best countertop for the money?
Among kitchen countertop materials, a solid surface is the best value for money. This is due to its ability to meet the requirements of durability, versatility, affordability, and quality.
What kitchen countertops never go out of style?
Types of kitchen countertop materials that never go out of style include marble, granite, and quartz. Their designs, versatile features, and durability offer timeless use.
How much should I allocate for quartz countertops?
You should allocate a budget for quartz countertops by considering your kitchen area, countertop size, and installation factors.
What is the downside of quartz countertops?
The downsides of quartz kitchen countertops include their high cost and their lack of resistance to high temperatures. They are also not fully scratch resistant and can be affected by UV rays.
