Pros: Tile comes in many different colors and styles, and it is very heat-resistant, so cooks don’t have to fear putting down a hot pan of muffins on the counter. By contrast, face grain consists of boards laid flat, which is less suitable for a heavily used kitchen countertop because it is easily susceptible to dents and cuts from chopping. It's just a matter of weighing the pros and cons and deciding what look or style works with all your other outdoor kitchen design ideas.. The average cost for a Countertop Installation Professional is $1610. What it is: Recycled paper countertops are composite surfaces made up of formaldehyde-free resin, pigment, and – you guessed it – recycled paper. For many, this is appealing; for others, this is unacceptable. On the other hand, quartz weighs in about two pounds heavier per square foot, which provides a more substantial feel. They are then sealed to make them non-porous and heat/stain resistant. It also is durable, resisting chips and scratches, and stands up well to heat. It also requires very little maintenance, if any. They are not themselves recyclable, although they can be cut up and re-used. The name Corian is the Dupont Corporation's brand name for its flagship solid surface countertop material. It’s fairly pliable, so it is unlikely to crack from too much weight. What it costs: Most Butcher Block countertops cost between $40 and $65 per square foot (including installation), but prices can vary widely, depending on your location, the kind of wood you choose, the kind of finish you get, how many square feet of countertop you’re installing, and whether you choose to install it yourself or hire help. It is available in a wide variety of colors and blends well with many different flooring and wall designs. Quartz countertops are relatively new, but they’ve found a loyal following because of their many good qualities such as their attractive appearance, durability and the fact they don’t have some of the weaknesses of natural stone. This also means it is naturally anti-microbial. What it is:Long considered a sign of luxury, marble is a natural stone created by sediment under pressure, which develops a crystalline structure that allows it to be polished. It stands up to juice, oil, wine, tomato, coffee and other sources of stains in the kitchen. In one test, E Coli bacteria stayed alive on stainless steel for 34 days but died after only four hours on copper. Also called engineered stone countertops, quartz countertops are here to stay. What it is: Countertops made of stainless steel have been the choice of professional chefs for decades thanks to the stain- and heat-resistance of stainless steel and its overall durability. And Corian gets bonus points for the ability to be formed into curved or flowing shapes. Cons: Because it is very porous, marble must be sealed as often as once a year, and even then, it will likely still stain when in contact with very acidic substances. What it is: Butcher block countertops are made up of glued strips of hardwood — often maple, but sometimes ash, teak, oak, or even bamboo. Periodic waxing or oiling will keep it in the best condition but isn’t strictly necessary. Cons: Concrete countertops can be cracked. It will stand up to many impacts that would damage another surface. The look of quartz countertops is fairly contemporary. Plus, wood is naturally anti-microbial. It does not get scratched easily. Non-porous - Corian has a solid surface that is non-absorbent and highly resistant to stains. Also, you cannot purchase solid surface countertops directly yourself, so no DIY here: you must go through a licensed dealer and have them professionally installed. Also, because it is a heavy stone, it requires professional installation. Stainless steel comes in different grades and finishes, and the best grade of steel for kitchen countertops is type 304, which is highly scratch resistant and very strong. However, they are repairable if damaged. Cons: Granite is very difficult to remove, and should be considered a “forever” upgrade, because you may have to rip out the … It must be sealed roughly every 10 years or so to prevent staining, and it can crack if hit by a large, heavy object. Cons: Depending on the type of quartzite, periodic sealing must be done (as with any stone surface) to avoid staining. Cons: Because it is naturally soft, soapstone may scratch or chip more easily than other stone materials. Metal in the corners can also be welded to eliminate seams. When you get written estimates, expect quartz countertop prices to be $115-$200 per square foot. Now that you know both the pros and cons of steel countertops from Countertop Investigator, you’ll be able to make an informed decision. Pros: As mentioned before, slate is practically maintenance-free. Also, copper scratches and dents easily. This long process creates a durable material well-suited to household use. For cleanliness, a non-porous surface means that it will not harbor bacteria or viruses. Pros: Concrete countertops must be handmade, and therefore can be customized for any project. What it is: You probably already know! Edge grain is the most used for countertops because it is strong and less expensive; it’s created by gluing long boards together on their sides. Pros: Because granite is highly sought after and considered beautiful, the countertops will add non-depreciating value to your home. Granite Solid-Surface Material . Wood is naturally more sustainable than minerals like granite because wood is renewable, but reclaimed wood is a recycled renewable resource, which makes it even more environmentally sound. What it costs: About $60 to $70 per square foot installed. Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops. Quartz countertops are relatively new, but they’ve found a loyal following because of their many good qualities such as their attractive appearance, durability and the fact they don’t have some of the weaknesses of natural stone. Slate comes in dark, subtle colors and is naturally matte. It integrates nicely with stainless sinks. Non-porous also means it’s easy to keep clean and sanitary, which makes it a great choice for people who do a lot of cooking with fresh vegetables. It also rarely comes in slabs longer than 7 feet, which means that longer kitchen counters will require multiple slabs and more complicated installation work. Also, reclaimed wood is more durable than ordinary wood countertops due to having been exposed to the elements for many years. They are durable, non-porous, and non-staining. It doesn’t have the same hardness in the feel that some people find unpleasant. What it costs: Between $30 and $50 per square foot installed. Cons: Bleach and chloride can easily damage stainless steel. They are also heat-resistant, but only to 350 degrees. Pros: Because they are made primarily of recycled materials, they are more environmentally friendly than many naturally sourced materials. The finish has a depth that can’t be produced with solid surface materials like Corian. It is naturally gray in color (usually darker gray, although lighter varieties exist) with veins of lighter color running through it. Here is a look at their strengths and … And the cold aesthetic may not be for everyone. What it costs: Granite can be expensive. For many, the answer is a resounding yes based on its look, durability and sanitary benefits. This consumer buying guide covers top 15 countertop options, along with each material’s pros and cons, and the average cost to install. The most popular recycled paper countertop manufacturer is PaperStone, but they are also made by a variety of other companies, including RichLite, ShetkaStone, and Kliptech. What it is: Becoming more popular among people seeking an eco-friendly solution to countertop materials – or people out for a unique, whimsical look in their home – recycled glass countertops consist of fragments of recycled glass held together with a binder, usually cement or resin. Granite is a natural stone countertop material which has been highly prized in the kitchen for many years. When DuPont let their patent expire in the 1990s, a wave of different solid surface materials entered the market, including Hi-Macs, Staron, Hanex, Wilsonart, and Durat, amongst others. What it costs: Prices vary widely from supplier to supplier. They can be made of reclaimed or salvaged wood, which drastically reduces their environmental impact. If installed properly, they will be smooth and very durable. Because Corian was the first of the solid-surface materials marketed for use as a countertop, the name often is used to refer to all solid surface materials, including brands made by other companies. The Pros, Cons and New Creative Uses for the 4-Inch Backsplash Free … It can be found in a variety of natural colors, including white, black, gray, yellow, pink, and green, and sometimes with prominent veins of mineral deposits that are considered attractive. Those benefits have led to quartz being one of the most popular countertop materials in the past year. Did you know? They are very tough and won’t chip easily and require only soap and water to clean. Cons: Granite is very difficult to remove, and should be considered a “forever” upgrade, because you may have to rip out the entire counter if you get sick of it. The manufacturing process allows a much wider range of colors than you’ll find in natural stones such as marble or granite. Also, if hit with a sufficiently heavy object, a glass countertop may chip or crack, which can be costly to repair. What material are you planning to choose for your worktop this time? On average, the total cost of installing Butcher block countertops is between $2,000 and $4,500. Pros: Most importantly, reclaimed wood is sustainable. They look like natural stone countertops, but these engineered quartz countertops have some additional benefits you can’t get naturally. That means you won’t be able to set a hot pan down on them unprotected, and a water ring from a glass without a coaster may become permanent. Concrete countertops have been in style for a while now, especially among people who like that industrial or rustic look, and they don’t appear to be losing popularity. Pros: Unique and beautiful, marble is also heat-resistant. It is not as hard as its cousin granite, but not as soft as soapstone, either. They are extremely cheap and can be installed yourself if you’re into DIY. Quartz leads the way if you want the look of stone for your countertops, whereas Corian offers a more contemporary appearance. Granite is a premium building material that stands out for …, A backsplash is a practical necessity and enhances beauty wherever …, Putting an attractive bevel on a countertop enhances its beauty, …, Quartz countertops are elegant, gorgeous and long-lasting, but they are …, When homeowners are considering granite countertops for their kitchen or …, Are your marble countertops looking dull, perhaps with light scratches …, Granite countertops, like other natural stone countertop materials such as, marble, sandstone …, The Benefits of Engineered Stone Countertops, The Pros and Cons of Soapstone Countertops, Pros and Cons of Granite Bathroom Countertops, Pros and Cons of Crushed Glass Countertops, How To Polish Granite & Restore That Factory Shine, How to Repair Fissures, Cracks and Chips in Countertops. What it costs: Typically $65 – $135 per square foot installed, but this can vary widely, since concrete countertops are often a DIY project. The price of a Countertop Installation Professional can vary depending on … What it is: Slate is a soft, dense natural stone like its cousin, soapstone. A middle finish (e.g., #4) would be ideal for looking shiny without advertising imperfections. The seams on engineered stone countertops are sometimes noticeable too, about like those with granite countertops, but this isn’t a deal breaker for most people. A word of caution, however – the term tends to be used somewhat loosely by manufacturers, so it is important to check with your supplier to find out if your quartzite is “hard” or “soft” quartzite, which will affect how durable the material is, and how often routine sealing must be done to care for it. It is also beautiful and gives a unique warmth to a room that stainless steel tends to zap. What it costs: About $40 to $80 installed. Pros: Every recycled glass countertop is unique because a different blend of glass is used in each one. Be aware of the few potential drawbacks and their price. Because it is non-porous, spills wipe up easily and don’t stain. PROS AND CONS. CHALK PAINT PROS: Chalk paint dries quickly. What it is: Soapstone is a natural stone which takes its name from the soft, almost soapy feel of its surface. Soapstone has been used in kitchen countertops for centuries and looks particularly natural in a farmhouse-style kitchen (which happens to be a major design trend). It also may have undesirable imperfections or have been treated with toxic chemicals in the past – which would be almost impossible to determine. Like other hard surface countertop materials, quartz is non-porous so it resists staining much better than granite, marble and concrete. Quartzite is also harder than granite, making it a little more durable. It’s not a budget option, and it’s very loud when setting pots and pans down. Pros: The coolest thing about copper is how anti-microbial it is naturally. Finally, the thickness of the steel is also rated by gauge, where lower numbers indicate thicker steel, better for heavy use; 16 and 18 gauge are the most common in-home settings. Also, the surface reflectiveness of a given piece of stainless steel is classified by a number indicating the amount of polish. Plus, it can be cleaned with a simple mixture of lemon juice and salt. Pros: Stainless steel is the most durable countertop material and the hardest. You can always be confident that you are getting your quartz countertop absolutely clean, and that’s a great benefit in both the kitchen and the bathroom. The appearance of the finished engineered stone is rich, even luxurious. The biggest concern for some will be the price. It is gaining popularity as it is extremely resistant to cutting marks, but it is also the most expensive option. What it is: On the other end of the warmth spectrum from stainless steel, we have the natural beauty of wood countertops. These inviting, rustic-looking countertops are rising fast in popularity, as farmhouse-inspired design is trending everywhere. Average Cost to Tear Off & Replace a Roof on 2,200 Sq.Ft. Pros: Soapstone’s dark, warm, neutral look goes well with a variety of kitchen designs. These counters were popular in the 70s and 80s, disappeared for a while, and have recently come back into fashion. Pros: Quartz has a wider variety of colors available than natural stone, since pigments can be added to the resin. It is somewhat heat resistant (although protection should be used if you intend to leave a hot pot sitting for a while). Also, because they are somewhat porous, they must be sealed and waxed regularly. Quartzite is a naturally occurring rock that starts its life as a kind of sandstone and evolves into quartzite when subjected to heat and pressure. As a bonus, a butcher block countertop can be installed yourself if you’re handy. Not to be confused with countertops labeled “quartz” – which are a kind of manmade composite, consisting of about 90% quartz and 10% resin – quartzite is a relatively new solid-stone alternative to granite or engineered quartz countertops. Cons: Reclaimed wood is scarce because its popularity is so high right now, and as a result, it is more expensive than ordinary wood countertops. It also won’t change color over time (called developing a patina), unlike many natural surfaces and most other metals. Pros: Butcher block countertops look warm and welcoming compared to the cool, sterile look of steel or granite. Pros: The neutral colors of quartzite look nice against almost any kitchen color scheme. End grain consists of small blocks arranged so that their ends are visible on the surface (see the picture above). Today, with over a half century of product, reinforced acrylic composite countertops are available in a stunning variety to suit any home décor. Quartz is a manufactured product and can be very attractive. Resin-based composites don’t have this maintenance requirement, but also can’t be buffed to the same high sheen. What it costs: Typically, soapstone countertops run between $60 and $105 per square foot installed, depending on where you live and how thick a slab you want. House, Deck Cost, Plus Pros and Cons of Building a New Deck in 2021, Around $45 to $75 per square foot installed, Top 15 Kitchen Countertops Costs and Pros & Cons in 2021, Bathroom Remodel Cost in 2021: Budget, Average, & Luxury Bathroom Upgrades, Window Replacement Cost in 2021: Window Types and Pros & Cons, Top 20 Home Addition Ideas, Plus Costs and ROI Details in 2021, 6 Best Kitchen Faucet Brands and Their Costs: Best Functionality & Style, Garden Patios Costs, Plus Pros & Cons, and ROI in 2021, 2021 Stone Siding Cost, Pros & Cons: Natural Stone vs. MSV. Depending on the binder used, recycled glass can be very environmentally friendly – or not so much, as some binders are made with toxic chemicals. There are two grades of soapstone – artistic and architectural – but only architectural soapstone is suitable for countertop use, as it is much stronger than artistic soapstone. There are three basic styles of butcher block: end grain, edge grain, or face grain. If you’re looking to install new countertops in your kitchen, you’re not alone – 95% of homeowners looking to renovate say that “kitchen countertops are their top priority this year”. Stainless steel worktops are made of thin sheets of stainless steel fastened to a wood or other backing. What it is: Like stainless steel, copper countertops are made of thin sheets of copper fastened to plywood or some other kind of backing. Cons: Sealing and regular maintenance are necessary due to concrete’s natural porousness, which can lead to easy staining. Pros: Concrete countertops are heat and scratch resistant. What it is: Tile countertops are typically made of ceramic tiles (themselves made of fired clay), which are usually applied to a plywood substrate or on top of an existing laminate countertop, since tile by itself can be too thin for countertop use. These brands mostly use the same recipe – DuPont’s original – but differ in the colors they offer. Solid-Surface Material vs. Cons: Slate has very few downsides, except that it doesn’t come in a wide range of styles or colors. Pros and Cons of Popular Bathroom Countertop Materials Granite Slab Counters 20 Options for Kitchen Countertops Corian Solid Surface vs. Also called engineered stone countertops, quartz countertops are here to stay. What it costs: Usually between $125 and $250 per square foot, depending on thickness and quality. Cons: Recycled paper counters require occasional sealing and cannot tolerate abrasive cleaners. And as mentioned above, tile is easily cracked by dropping objects. Now that I’ve finished all of the painting, and because I’ve done it before a different way, I thought it would be really valuable to share a pros and cons list for each process—latex paint versus chalk paint. And although tiles tend to get cracked or chipped, they can easily be replaced individually without having to buy a new countertop. Also, because the edges of slate counters can be sharp, professionals recommend having the corners rounded off. Its natural swirl patterns lend a clean, modern, organic look. What it costs:From $100 to $175 per square foot installed. It takes heat better than most countertops. For a contemporary, upscale look with very low maintenance required, quartz countertops are definitely worth considering. Prices between $80 and $200 per square foot installed are not uncommon, depending on the color of the granite, the manufacturer, and where you live. It’s very non-porous when compared to other similar surfaces, which makes it extremely unlikely to stain, and therefore it doesn’t require the periodic sealing that many other natural stone countertops require. Some surfaces perform differently outdoors vs. indoors regarding durability and maintenance, so you definitely … It is hard and durable, and less prone to denting or chipping than quartzite. Unlike soapstone, however, slate is non-porous and requires no maintenance. Here is a look at their strengths and weaknesses. Is stainless the right fit for you? It is formed from clay and silt which has been compacted over millions of years. It is also labor-intensive because it is so heavy, which means that it may require additional structural support than what your counters already offer. They have a feel that’s soft and warm, and often compared to soapstone. Also, some colors of glass are more expensive than others. What it costs: Between $75 and $150 installed, depending on the gauge of steel. They were originally intended to mimic the look of natural stone, while being stronger and non-porous. Cons: Butcher block requires oiling every six months to keep the wood protected. Keep in mind, however, that those prices are competitive with other high-end countertop materials such as granite, marble, concrete and slate. They are also vulnerable to scratches and dents. Second, reclaimed wood has a unique appearance because it typically contains more than one species of wood, and the pieces have generally been weathered for many years. What it is: Originally invented by DuPont in the 1960s and marketed under the brand name Corian, solid surface countertops are made from acrylic and polyester blends. It is expensive when compared to other common countertop materials. Unlike other surfaces, nicks and scratches can be repaired through sanding. The ability to mix in pigments or even materials like seashells or glass offers a wide variety of aesthetic choices. Pros: Solid surface countertops offer a wider range of colors and looks than any other material, although none of them are particularly natural looking. This means you can safely set that hot pan down without worrying about leaving a mark. It does not get scratched easily. Pros: Because granite is highly sought after and considered beautiful, the countertops will add non-depreciating value to your home. Copper can occasionally be salvaged from scrap yards, making it an eco-friendly choice. It is also very vulnerable to scratching. What it costs: About $60 to $100 per square foot installed. We cover the pros & cons of this budget-friendly kitchen element. Concrete is durable and scratch-resistant and will last for years if sealed and maintained properly. It is non-porous and sanitary, heat-resistant, and easy to clean. The numbering system goes from 0 to 8, with 8 being the most polished finish, but also reflecting the most scuffs and fingerprints. What it is: Sometimes known as “engineered stone”, what’s called “quartz” on the materials show floor today is actually a composite, consisting of quartz crystals held together with some kind of binder, often resin. In truth, granite sets the bar for comparing outdoor countertop materials but others can make good outdoor kitchen countertops as well. Cons: Cement-based composites require sealing every 5 years to protect them from stains from acidic foods. To hire a Countertop Installation Professional to install your countertop, you are likely to spend between $1000 and $1800 total. The resulting white or gray rock tends to have beautiful streaks of color, giving it the look of marble while maintaining the toughness of granite. They are also extremely low maintenance, not requiring sealants or special cleaning materials. What it costs: Around $45 to $75 per square foot installed, depending mostly on the color you select. Finally, quartz is not as resistant to heat as granite, crushed glassed or concrete, so caution will have to be used with hot pots and pans in the kitchen or hot hair tools in the bathroom. There aren’t many cons to this engineered stone. Using reclaimed wood can potentially make your project LEED or FSC certified, qualifying your home for special tax benefits. It is non-porous and sanitary, heat-resistant, and easy to clean. When DuPont unleashed Corian-brand countertops on the homeowners of America, it was a game changer. Cons: The grout between tiles can collect food and be difficult to clean, resulting in stains. In addition, there are many tints, stains, and methods that can make your countertop one of a kind. Cons: Over time, copper will naturally oxidize (patina) – it’s a “living” surface that will change color from red to brown to green and gradually dull. Cons: Solid surface countertops are not heat-resistant and can burn. More seriously, wood countertops in general are not heat or stain resistant. Cons: Quartz can be scratched, and it melts under temperatures higher than 300 degrees Fahrenheit, which means a hot pad must be used. They are very inexpensive compared to other countertop materials. 37 … Recycled paper countertops are typically only available in dark, matte hues, although some companies offer more vivid colors. Corian Countertops Pros Greater selection - Because Corian is man-made, it is available in a wider variety of styles and colors than granite, which is a natural stone. Plus, it’s completely recyclable! However, some homeowners will prefer the more natural look of granite, marble, slate or wood for their home. If you’re willing to live with those things, quartz countertops should meet or exceed your expectations. In general, ordinary wood countertops run $50 to $100 per square foot installed; expect to pay slightly more. What it costs: $85 to $200 per square foot installed, depending on the type of quartzite you choose and where you live. What it costs: Recycled glass countertops run anywhere from $50 to $100 per square foot, plus around $80 per hour for installation, which results in a cost of about $75 to $150 per square foot installed – slightly higher than typical granite or quartz. Granite Countertop Comparison Guide Concrete Countertops Pros and Cons 8 Surprising Things About Quartz (Engineered Stone) Countertops Scrubbing the counters can result in a blurred finish. This lends a rustic or historical look to your kitchen design. That isn’t necessarily a weakness since beauty is in the eye of the beholder. The price of your installation may vary depending on whether you need backsplashes, seams, sink cut-outs, or upgraded or curved edges. 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