(412) 353-5660
Maybe you’re thinking of remodeling your kitchen, or, perhaps, you’re aiming to transform that ordinary bathroom into a calming space! Regardless of which corner you’re looking to update, there’s a straightforward yet critical element that lends itself to the ultimate level of customization – countertops.
Countertops are not just mere surfaces, they set the tone for your space while quietly shouldering a multitude of activities ranging from gourmet meal preparation and cheerful family breakfasts in the kitchen to your go-to storage spot in your bathroom. The right type of countertop makes all this possible under one roof.
Keep reading to get an in-depth explanation of different countertop materials – each with its own charm, benefits, and considerations.
Countertop Types: Materials
Selecting the appropriate countertop is about finding the one that not only meets your style preferences but also fits well within your budget and meets your practical needs. There exists a variety of different types of counters made from numerous materials specially made for different purposes.
Let’s delve into the 10 most popular materials for your kitchen and bathroom, explaining what sets each apart and why it could become the countertop you’ve been looking for.
#1 Marble
Marble is among the most popular countertop materials for your kitchen and bathroom, and is seen as a symbol of luxury and elegance.
Natural Beauty
Let’s start with the obvious: it’s beautiful. If you’re looking to create a high-end, luxurious space in your home, then marble countertops are an excellent choice. Each slab is genuinely unique with its marble design. From subtle white Carrara marble to dramatic black Marquina marble, there’s a style to perfectly capture every vision.
Practical and Functional
Looking past its attractive appearance, marble countertops are also a significantly practical option. This countertop material actively contributes to your cooking experience. Cool to the touch, hygienic due to its nonporous nature, and even capable of resisting heat shock from hot pots and pans, it is essential for many types of cooking.
Cost
As you might expect from such a premium material, marble comes with a high-end price tag compared to other countertop materials like laminate or ceramic tile. Expect prices ranging anywhere from $40 to $200 per square foot once installed, depending on the marble’s quality and finish.
#2 Quartz Countertops
Among the diverse array of countertop materials types, the long-lasting appeal of quartz stands out. Quartz blends natural aesthetics with low maintenance requirements to suit various home improvement needs.
The primary component in quartz countertops is ground quartz minerals, accounting for about 94% of their composition. The remaining 6% consists of resin binders and pigments. This composition creates an extremely hard surface that’s nearly as durable as granite but has greater flexibility due to the resins.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Looking aesthetically pleasing is another significant attribute of quartz countertops. They flaunt consistent patterns and come in a wide range of colors, including those not found naturally, like reds or blues. This diversity can complement any kitchen or bathroom decor, making it a versatile option.
Cost
Quartz comes in different “grades” or versions that differ in price based on the quality of the quartz. For the average homeowner, the cost of a quartz countertop is around $59 to $80 a square foot.
#3 Solid Surface Countertops
Solid surface countertops have made a major breakthrough in the realm of countertop materials. These non-porous, low-maintenance counters are appreciated for their seamless construction and customizable design. These countertops are made from a combination of mineral dust, resins, acrylics, and coloring.
Hassle-Free
In terms of installation, solid surface countertops are relatively hassle-free. Due to their synthetic composition, they’re somewhat flexible and can be manipulated into many shapes without needing special tools or a large team of craftsmen.
Minor Scratches
With solid surface countertops, minor scratches or nicks aren’t doomsday scenarios, and most can be seamlessly repaired without leaving noticeable marks.
Cost
The average cost of installing solid surface countertops, including materials and labor, is around $30 to $100 per square foot.
#4 Granite Countertops
Certainly worth mentioning in our list are granite countertops. These have been a favorite among homeowners for years, and it’s not difficult to understand why once you see their inherent beauty.
Unique Patterns
Just think back to the last time you stepped into a kitchen and were captivated by its incredibly gorgeous countertop. Chances are, that was a granite countertop! They’re admired primarily due to their unique patterns and bold colors, which skillfully add an element of luxury to your space.
Durable
Renowned for their durability, these countertops are formed from molten rock that solidified under the Earth’s surface millions of years ago.
Enhanced Aesthetics
The aesthetic appeal of granite countertops doesn’t fade away with time, but instead increases, adding more value to your property. You’ll want to ensure you use a cutting board with granite countertops as this material can actually damage your knives.
Cost
Granite countertops cost about $40 to $143 for every square foot of countertop needed.
#5 Butcher Block Countertops
Butcher block countertops are one of the most unique options on the market. These countertops offer an organic aesthetic appeal to your kitchen or bathroom, and they come made from a variety of wood types; including maple, oak, walnut, or cherry, each with their unique charm.
Absorbs Noise
Compared to other types of countertop materials, butcher block countertops stand out for their ability to absorb noise effectively, making for a quieter workspace in both the bathroom and kitchen.
Easy Maintenance
Cleaning these counters is simple, too! A mild solution of soap water will typically suffice for daily cleanings, while abrasive cleaning chemicals should be avoided at all costs. On occasion, you may need to coat the countertop with a sealant or oil to prevent it from drying out and cracking over time.
Cost
They are usually cheaper than other high-end options like granite or quartz but do not lag in terms of functionality and style. The cost of butcher block countertops ranges from $50 to $150 per square foot.
#6 Soapstone Countertops
When it comes to countertop material types, soapstone stands out as a unique yet highly functional option. Soapstone countertops are crafted from quarried stone; a distinct material forged by nature and shaped by humans into a distinctive kitchen or bathroom feature.
Durable and Hygienic
Soapstone countertops are known for a number of impressive features. The natural solidity allows soapstone to weather heavy use without cracking or chipping. This means that while your cooking experiments may evolve over time, your countertop remains steadfast. While most countertop materials are prone to soaking up stains or bacteria, soapstone simply doesn’t absorb such substances.
Aesthetically Appealing
Many homeowners fall in love with soapstone for entirely aesthetic reasons, too! It’s characterized by warm undertones that can range from pale gray to dark charcoal – there’s something infinitely hypnotizing about this range of color! With its rustic appeal and versatile palette, a soapstone counter pairs well with various designs.
Cost
Soapstone countertops cost around $70 to $120 per square foot
#7 Stainless Steel Countertops
When you think of stainless steel, your mind probably jumps straight to kitchen appliances. But what if I tell you this material can also make your countertop shine; quite literally? Indeed, stainless steel is one of the popular countertop materials for both large kitchens and compact bathrooms. These counters are sleek and modern, and provide an industrial aesthetic that significantly stands out in any design scheme.
Durable
First off, stainless steel is incredibly strong, resisting heat, stains, and water. Thus making it a reliable choice for busy or high-traffic areas like the kitchen.
Hygienic
Steel it’s nonporous which means bacteria or germs cannot penetrate through the material—making it an extremely hygienic choice that’s easy to clean up after a chaotic cooking session or the kids’ bathroom use!
Custom Options Available
Unlike other countertop materials where you face size limitations due to the slab dimensions they come in, stainless steel countertops can be custom-fit to suit any layout seamlessly.
Cost
Prices start at about $60 per square foot for stainless-steel countertops, with the typical cost ranging from $80 to $225 per square foot, including both materials and professional installation
Now we’ll dive deeper into other types of countertops such as laminate countertops, ceramic tile, and concrete to help you find what suits best for your specific needs under these kitchen and bathroom fixtures. So keep reading!
#8. Laminate Countertops
When talking about popular countertop materials types, it’s impossible to overlook laminate options. Don’t let its inexpensive price tag fool you, since this material has certainly evolved over the years. Laminate countertops rose to fame in the 60s and 70s for their unbeatable ease of maintenance and a nearly limitless array of designs. Since that time, advancements in technology have allowed these counters to become front and center by improving quality while maintaining affordability.
Unlike some other options on our list, laminate countertops feature a mineral core composed mainly of paper blended with resins.
Affordable
One of the most significant advantages of laminate countertops is their cost-effectiveness. They are much less expensive than natural stone, quartz, or solid surface countertops. This makes them an excellent choice for homeowners looking to update their kitchen or bathroom on a budget.
Variety of Designs
Laminate countertops come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures. They can mimic the look of more expensive materials like granite, marble, or wood at a fraction of the cost. This variety allows you to easily coordinate with your home’s decor and style preferences.
Repairability
While laminate is not as easily repairable as some other materials, minor burns or stains can sometimes be buffed out, and the entire countertop can be replaced at a lower cost than other materials if needed.
Cost
As one of the least expensive countertop options on the market today, laminate offers superb value for its price. The average cost of laminate countertop installation is around $20 to $80 per square foot.
# 9. Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile, with its vast array of colors and designs, has always been a favorite among the different types of countertop materials. It presents an excellent option for those who desire flexibility in their choice without excessively impacting their budget. Moreover, they don’t scratch easily, providing relief from constant worry about damage. One notable advantage of ceramic tiles centers around their maintenance. Cleaning them is as simple as wiping off spills with warm water or using standard cleaning products when needed.
Heat Resistant
Not only vibrant and welcoming, ceramic tile countertops offer impressive durability. Their capacity to resist heat allows you to place hot pots and pans directly on their surface without having to worry about damage.
Cost
Most homeowners pay around $1 to $35 per square foot for ceramic tile countertops, including materials and labor. High-grade options like porcelain tile are also available but cost slightly more at $3 to $35 per square foot.
# 10. Concrete
Over the years concrete countertops have grown in popularity. This type of countertop material brings industrial-level durability and strength right into your kitchen or bathroom. Quite literally, it’s tough as rocks.
What makes concrete countertops astonishing is their versatility. Available in different shades, they can be customized with unique colors, finishes, and even decorative elements such as seashells or fragments of glass. Additionally, you can choose any shape for your countertop because concrete starts in a liquid form that can be molded into various shapes and sizes.
Strength
It’s also worth noting that concrete can bear more weight than most countertop materials, but this will also necessitate reinforced cabinetry or support structures to hold up the countertop.
Cost
The cost for a concrete countertop averages from $100 to $140 per square foot.
Because there are so many options with so many price variations, it’s best to outline a desired budget before narrowing down your material choices. If you need help making your decision, or need someone to install your countertop, look no further than the team at McClellands Contracting and Roofing LLC.
Conclusion
Whether you’re eyeing a luxurious marble countertop for your kitchen or a durable soapstone surface for your bathroom, we’ve got you covered. As you weigh your options, remember to factor in maintenance requirements, longevity of the material, and, of course, your budget. By doing so, you’ll not only elevate the look and functionality of your space but also make a lasting investment that brings joy and functionality for years to come.
Also read: Kitchen Countertop Replacement Guide: All You Need To Know
At McClellands Contracting and Roofing LLC, we understand the importance of quality and craftsmanship when it comes to transforming your kitchen and bathroom. For those interested in elevating their kitchen experience, our experts are ready to discuss your specific needs and offer kitchen countertop installation in Pittsburgh, and the surrounding areas of Bridgeville, Sewickley, and Ross Township.
If it’s your bathroom that needs a makeover, and you need help selecting the perfect material for flawless installation, we’re your go-to choice for the best bathroom countertop installation service in Pittsburgh.
Give us a call today at (412) 353-5660 to speak with one of our experts, and let us do the rest to make your dream space a reality.
