20 Best Kitchen Countertop Options For You In 2024

The kitchen is a key part of your home where you prepare meals for family and friends. Countertops are essential, affecting both the functionality and look of your kitchen. If you live in or near Pittsburgh, PA, and want to update your kitchen countertops, we're here to help!

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we always offer the latest designs and trendy ideas for kitchen and home remodels. We will cover 20 cool and beautiful kitchen countertop options in this blog post!

#1 Arabescato Marble Countertop

Cost:  $100 - $200 per square foot

Arbescato marble is a great choice if you are looking for a kitchen countertop remodel. It has bold veins on a white or light-colored base. 

Pros	Cons
They are tough and can handle daily wear and tear.	They can stain if not cleaned properly.
They add a pleasant and subtle look to a kitchen space.	The surface might scratch or chip with sharp objects.
Makes kitchens look spacious and brighter.	These countertops need regular care to maintain their appearance.
They work well with many kitchen styles.
They can increase home value.
They resist daily stress well and are easy to clean

This is a premium kitchen countertop material option, but it is often worth the investment for its beauty and luxurious feel.

#2 Granite Countertop

Cost: $50 - $100 per square foot

Granite is a natural stone and an igneous rock. Granite countertops are made from this natural stone. 

Pros	Cons
Granite is tough and does not scratch easily.	Granite can crack if something heavy is dropped on it.
They don’t get damaged from hot pans.	Granite is very heavy and may need extra support.
Granite countertops are easy to clean.	It needs to be sealed once a year to prevent stains.
If cared for and maintained well, granite can last for many decades.
It suits various kitchen styles.

Granite is another premium option that adds a luxurious, natural look to any kitchen. While on the pricier side, granite is an excellent long-term investment due to its exceptional durability and resistance to scratches and heat.

#3 Quartz Countertop

Cost: $50 - $200 per square foot

Quartz is a man-made material that is one of the best kitchen countertop options. It's typically made from around 90% natural quartz mixed with 10% resins.

Pros	Cons
Quartz is very strong and can resist stains and scratches.	The edges of quartz countertops can chip if hit hard.
They are available in many colors and patterns.	It can be damaged by high heat, so you need to use trivets.
Quartz doesn't need to be sealed and is easy to clean.

Quartz countertops are growing in popularity and are well worth the investment. Highly durable, stain-resistant, and available in a wide array of colors and patterns, quartz countertops are a popular choice for kitchen remodels.

#4 Lava Stone Countertop

Cost: $200 - $300 per square foot

Lava stone is made from the rapid cooling of hot lava. These countertops have a unique, slightly bumpy texture and are glazed to create a flat, usable surface. 

Pros	Cons
Lava stone can handle high heat.	Lava stone countertops are very expensive.
It's very strong and hard to damage.	They're not common, so they might be hard to find.
You can get it in many bright colors.	The glaze can chip if hit with heavy objects.
It's resistant to stains and scratches.	Lava stone is very heavy and may need extra support.

This kitchen countertop material is very costly and may not be suitable for homeowners with low budgets. 

#5 Stainless Steel Countertop

Cost: $70 - $160 per square foot

Stainless steel is a trendy option for modern and contemporary kitchens. It's very hygienic and non-porous, making it a breeze to keep clean. Also, the material is heat-resistant and durable. 

Pros	Cons
Stainless steel offers a hygienic and easy-to-clean surface.	It can scratch, though many people like the worn look over time.
It is heat-resistant and won't stain easily.	It might show fingerprints easily, requiring frequent cleaning.
Stainless steel is very durable and can handle heavy use.

Stainless steel provides an industrial look and exceptional durability, making it a mid-range option that is worth the investment for many homeowners.

#6 Laminate Countertop

Cost: $10 - $50 per square foot

Laminate countertops are made from multiple layers of plastic bonded to particleboard. Laminate comes in many colors and patterns, even ones that look like stone. 

Pros	Cons
Laminate is a budget-friendly option for countertops.	It can scratch or chip, and these damages are hard to fix.
They are easy to clean and don't need special care.	Laminate won't last as long as stone countertops.
Laminate is lighter than stone, so it's easier to install.	They can also get damaged by hot objects.
It's a good choice if you want to update your kitchen without spending a lot.

Laminate is one of the most affordable countertop materials, making it a great choice for those on a tight budget. While not as durable as premium options, laminate countertops provide a wide range of color and pattern choices at a fraction of the cost.

#7 Concrete Countertop

Cost: $50 - $150 per square foot

Concrete countertops are poured to match the desired size and layout of your kitchen. 

Pros	Cons
You can choose the shape and thickness.	Concrete needs to be sealed to resist stains.
It can be colored to match your kitchen’s overall look.	They can also chip or crack if something heavy is dropped on them.
Concrete countertops are strong, durable, and can last a long time.	Concrete countertops are often custom-made, which can make them pricey.
Concrete works well in modern or industrial-style kitchens.
It's heat-resistant, so you can put hot pots on it.

Concrete countertops offer a unique, customizable look, but the cost can vary widely depending on the complexity of the design and installation.

#8 Soapstone Countertop

Cost: $55 - $120 per square foot

Soapstone is a natural stone and has a smooth, matte surface that many people like. They are one of the popular kitchen countertop materials. 

Pros	Cons
Soapstone is heat-resistant and doesn't stain easily.	It's softer than granite, so it can scratch more easily.
They don’t require frequent sealing like some other stones.	Soapstone darkens over time, which some people may not like.
Soapstone works well in both modern and traditional kitchens.

Soapstone is a more reasonably priced choice, and its heat resistance and low maintenance make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

#9 Marble Countertop

Cost: $40 - $60 per square feet

Marble is a classic kitchen countertop style that never fades out. These countertops offer a more luxurious and premium look. 

Pros	Cons
Marble countertops can increase your home's overall value.	The surface can stain easily, especially in light colors like white. Ensure that the spills are cleaned instantly.
Marble is a heat-resistant material, so these countertops will not get any stains or burn marks from hot objects.	Marble can stain and etch easily, so it needs careful use
These countertops offer a beautiful appearance to your kitchen space.	It needs to be sealed often.

Marble is available in various colors and patterns, making it a great choice for any home. Its elegant, timeless appearance may come at a premium price, and it requires more maintenance than other options to prevent staining and etching.

#10 Solid Surface Countertop

Cost: $50 - $150 per square foot

Solid surface countertops are man-made and very versatile. They're made from acrylic and polyester blends. 

Pros	Cons
The solid surface is non-porous, so it resists stains and bacteria.	Solid surfaces can't handle high heat, so you must use trivets.
It's seamless, which makes it easy to clean.	It's not as tough as stone countertops.
If it gets scratched, you can often sand out the damage.	Some people think it looks less natural than stone or wood.

Solid surface countertops offer a mid-range price point with a seamless, customizable appearance. They are a good value for the investment, providing a durable and low-maintenance surface.

#11 Recycled Glass Countertop

Cost: $60 - $155 per square foot

Recycled glass countertops are eco-friendly and unique. They're made from bits of recycled glass in a resin base. 

Pros	Cons
These countertops are strong and resist scratches and heat well.	They can crack if hit with heavy objects or if any heavy object is placed on a non-supported area like the corner of the countertop.
They come in many colors and styles, adding interest to your kitchen.	They can chip from excessive heat or when heated object is kept on them.

Recycled glass countertops are suitable for kitchen remodeling projects with mid-range to high-end budgets. They are a good investment for an eco-friendly and stylish countertop that is durable and low maintenance.

#12 Porcelain Countertop

Cost: $50 - $120 per square foot

Porcelain is made from fine clay that's heated at high temperatures. This makes it a tough and durable kitchen countertop material option.

Pros	Cons
They offer a surface that is resistant to scratches, heat, and stains.	Porcelain can chip if hit hard with heavy objects.
The Tile Council Of America states that the water absorption rate of porcelain is less than 0.5%.	They are an expensive choice to consider.
Porcelain is non-porous, so it's easy to clean and maintain them.
Porcelain countertops don’t need sealing.

This is another high-end material that is worthwhile the investment for its durability, stain and heat resistance properties, and low maintenance requirements.

#13 Slate Countertop

Cost: $50 - $100 per square foot

Slate has a soft, matte finish that many people like. Slate is heat-resistant and doesn't stain easily. It's harder than soapstone but softer than granite. 

Pros	Cons
Slate can resist heat well.	They are durable, but if hit hard, they can still chip or break.
These countertops won’t stain easily.	It’s a premium choice and costlier than some other countertop materials.
You don't need to seal slate countertops.	Slate isn't as common, so it might be harder to find.
Slate works in many kitchen styles.

#14 Zinc Countertop

Cost: $150 - $200 per square foot

Zinc is a soft metal used for countertops. It changes over time due to the development of a patina. This means the color and texture change as you use it.

Pros	Cons
Zinc countertops are naturally antibacterial. This makes them a great choice for the kitchen area.	It can get dents and scratches from sharp or heavy objects.
Zinc works with many kitchen styles.	Hot pots can leave marks on them.
	You need to polish them sometimes.

While they are a high-range option, they are another durable kitchen countertop material to consider. 

#15 Dekton Countertop

Cost: $60 - $150 per square foot

Dekton is a newer type of countertop material. It's made by mixing glass, porcelain, and quartz.

Pros	Cons
Dekton countertops offer a surface that is strong and hard to scratch.	Dekton can chip if you hit it hard with heavy things.
It can handle heat well and doesn’t easily get burn marks.	It might not work well with traditional-style kitchens.
You don’t need to seal Dekton, and it is easy to clean.

Premium and high-end, Dekton is one of the best kitchen countertop options. They are an excellent investment for their extreme durability.

#16 Recycled Paper Countertop

Cost: $45 - $75 per square foot

Recycled paper is an eco-friendly countertop material. It's made from recycled paper and resin. These countertops come in dark colors like black, brown, and green.

Pros	Cons
These are a good and environment-friendly material.	You need to oil it sometimes to maintain its appearance.
It's strong and can handle heat well.	Surfaces can get scratched easily.
They are darker in color, so they don’t stain easily.	Not many light color choices are available.
Recycled paper works well in modern kitchens.

Recycled paper is good for eco-conscious consumers who prioritize sustainability and a unique aesthetic.

#17 Travertine Countertop

Cost: $25 - $100 per square foot

Travertine is a natural stone used for countertops. It has a unique look with little holes that some people really like. Travertine comes in warm colors like beige and tan.

Pros	Cons
Travertine has a natural look.	It's softer than some stones and can scratch easily.
It comes in earthy colors and gives a warm, cozy feel to kitchens.	You need to seal it often to prevent stains
You can add a glaze or leave it matte.	Travertine needs more care than other stones.
It works well in traditional kitchens.	It can cost more than some other options.

Travertine is a good choice for a warm, natural aesthetic but requires more maintenance than other options.

#18 Wood Countertop

Cost: $50 - $150 per square foot

Wood countertops are made from different types of wood, like oak, maple, or walnut. They can be solid pieces or made from smaller pieces called butcher blocks. 

Pros	Cons
Wood gives a warm, natural look to kitchens.	Wood can be dented and scratched easily.
You can sand and refinish it if it gets damaged.	Heat and moisture can damage it.
You can choose from many types of wood, including cedar, oak, teak, walnut, and more.	You need to oil it regularly to protect it.
Wood works well in traditional kitchens.	It needs more care than stone countertops.
Many people like how it looks as it ages.

It’s a mid-range kitchen countertop material option. However, they are not recommended for the areas with exposure to moisture. 

#19 Quartzite Countertops

Cost: $60 - $210 per square foot

Quartzite is a natural metamorphic rock that starts as sandstone. It is formed when sandstone comes in contact with intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth's crust. This process causes the individual quartz grains in the sandstone to recrystallize and fuse together, resulting in a dense and durable stone.

Common Confusion: Many people often confuse quartzite with quartz. However, it's important to note that these are two distinct materials. Quartz is a synthetic material made from crushed quartz mixed with resins and pigments whereas quartzite is a natural material.

Pros	Cons
Quartzite kitchen countertops are extremely durable, and they are resistant to scratches.	Quartzite can be a more costly option than some other countertop materials.
It offers a natural, marble-like appearance with beautiful veining.	Some varieties of quartzite may require periodic sealing to maintain stain resistance.
Quartzite is heat-resistant, making it suitable for kitchen use.	The hardness of quartzite can make it challenging to fabricate and install.
Quartzite is more resistant to etching from acidic substances compared to marble.	Quartzite slabs may have natural imperfections or variations that some people might consider flaws.
This material comes in various colors and patterns, offering versatility in design.	The weight of quartzite may require additional support in some installations.

Quartzite is a natural stone that is even more durable than granite, making it a premium and costly option. However, its natural beauty and long-lasting performance make it a wise investment for those seeking a high-end kitchen countertop.

#20 Terrazzo Countertops

Cost: $40 - $75 per square foot

Terrazzo is a unique countertop material made from small pieces of stone, glass, or other materials mixed into cement. 

Pros	Cons
Terrazzo kitchen countertops can have many unique colors and patterns.	Terrazzo can be expensive to install.
You can customize these countertops to fit your style.	Repairs can be difficult and costly.
It's very durable and can last a long time.	Terrazzo is heavy and needs strong support.
It works well in different kitchen styles.

Terrazzo is a unique, customizable material that falls into the mid-range price category. It offers a durable, long-lasting surface, but the cost of installation and repairs can be higher than some other options.

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How To Choose The Right Kitchen Countertop Option For Your Home

Choosing the best kitchen countertops starts with your budget. For affordable options, consider laminate or solid surface materials. These offer versatility and easy maintenance at a lower cost.

Mid-range choices include quartz and granite, both durable and attractive options for a kitchen countertop remodel. For premium selections, quartzite, slate, and marble are luxurious, long-lasting materials. When deciding on the best material for kitchen countertops, also consider factors beyond price: maintenance requirements, durability, style compatibility, and functionality for your cooking habits. 

Some materials, like granite and marble, need regular sealing, while quartz and laminate are low-maintenance. Durability is crucial for busy kitchens, making options like granite, quartz, or quartzite ideal. 

Your choice should also complement your kitchen's design and potentially increase home value. By balancing these factors, you'll find the best kitchen countertop material that meets your needs and enhances your space.

Call McClellands Contracting and Roofing For Kitchen Countertop Remodel in Pittsburgh, PA

Looking for a reliable company to install new kitchen countertops in Pittsburgh or nearby areas of Pennsylvania? McClellands Contracting and Roofing is here to help. We're proud of our top-quality home remodeling work. Our designers will put their skills to work for you, making sure your kitchen turns out just how you want it. We also provide complete kitchen and home remodel services.

We know kitchen updates are a big deal. That's why we keep you in the loop every step of the way. We'll work with you to understand what you like, what you need, and what you can spend. For more information, feel free to give us a call at (412) 353 5660!