What Countertop Material Is Perfect for Your Home?

Countertops are among some of the most noticeable items in your home. That's why finding the best material to fit your design aesthetic and also satisfy your use and maintenance level for countertops is essential and challenging. It's also an exciting endeavor that homeowners enjoy. So, let's take a look at some of the most common materials you can use for your custom home.

Custom Home Builder Tips: Countertop Materials

Granite

It's widely available and durable, making it a staple for many homes. It's also resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. Since granite is a natural stone, each slab is unique, offering an endless variety of colors and looks. However, granite is highly porous and requires maintenance sealing. In addition, it might have some undesirable variability or imperfections depending on the slab.

Marble

The unique veining in the slabs and beautiful white hues make marble stand apart from other natural stones. It's heat resistant and waterproof. Marble is gorgeous, but it's not scratch-resistant, and it stains easily. These countertops require constant high-quality sealing to protect and preserve the look and integrity of the marble. It's also quite expensive, which is why it's usually used on feature countertops and not the entire kitchen.

Limestone

Limestone is primarily used for countertops in exterior locations such as outdoor kitchens, but it can also be used in the interior. In addition, it's heat resistant and available at different price points, making it more affordable than most natural stone countertops. However, limestone is not scratch resistant and is porous, making it prone to damage if it's not sealed regularly.

Quartzite

Quartzite isn't the same as quartz. It's a natural stone known for durability, hardness, and low maintenance. This stone is heat resistant and doesn't require special cleaners. However, make sure to use potholders or trivets to shield it from direct heat. It should also be sealed for extra protection and to preserve it. Quartzite is limited in color options.

Quartz

Quartz is a manufactured material. This composite material isn't easily stained or porous, and it's scratch resistant as well. It is easy to maintain, and it doesn't require any sealing. Quartz comes in various colors, patterns, brands, and designs, but it isn't impact or heat resistant like natural stone. In addition, it's heavier than natural stone meaning it must have sufficient structural support. Quartz can also be costly. Because it isn't natural, quartz can be found in colors not seen in nature.

Concrete

A poured-in-place concrete countertop is one answer if you want an entire kitchen with no seams. Concrete countertops are heat resistant, and they can be shaped, textured, and colored to suit your design aesthetic. They're primarily used in modern and transitional spaces.

However, concrete is prone to scratches and stains if not properly sealed. In addition, the sealant can be damaged by abrasive cleaning tools and solutions. Therefore, extra care is required when taking care of concrete countertops. Cracking is also a possibility as the house settles. In addition, concrete countertops are a costly option.

Butcher-Block

Wood countertops are great and fit perfectly in both traditional-styled and modern homes. Wood offers warmth to spaces compared to stone. Nicks and stains are easily repaired as the countertop can be re-stained at any time. Wood countertops need to be well oiled and sealed with a high-quality sealant. High moisture and water damage can make the countertop bow or bend. The high porous characteristic of wood allows germs to survive, making it a less sanitary option. It's also a high-cost option.

Tile

Porcelain or ceramic tiles are easy to clean, durable, and significantly less expensive than other countertop materials. It also offers a range of design and color options that are heat and scratch-resistant. On the other hand, hand-crafted or highly customized tiles are expensive, plus tiles can easily crack during or after installation. In addition, tiles don't stain easily, but grout is difficult to clean.

Stainless Steel

Are you going for an industrial or contemporary kitchen style? Stainless steel is a great option. It's a heat-resistant material and the easiest to clean. However, stainless steel can be noisy and easily scratched with daily use. It's also an expensive option for countertops.

Grayson Homes

Get an experienced and qualified interior designer and custom home builder like Grayson Homes to help you choose the best countertop material for every space in your house. Contact us today at 919-578-6222.