Granite

Pros:

• A profusion of options: With patterns from subtle to bold and a rainbow of hues, you’re sure to find a slab that speaks your language.
• Granite is hard and scratch resistant, and requires minimal upkeep when properly sealed.
• It’s impervious to humidity or damage from a hot curling iron.
• It lasts just about forever.
• Because granite is so desirable, it’s likely to add resale value to your home.

Cons

• Granite is still one of the most expensive countertop choices.
• Because there’s a real chance of damaging the slab if it isn’t handled properly, it’s best to hire a professional to do the job.
• Though granite is recyclable, its transport and mining require extensive energy resources.

Price range: $50 to $100 per square foot, depending on the size and thickness

Quarz

Pros:

• Quartz is tougher than granite and doesn’t require sealing.
• It’s naturally resistant to moisture, stains and bacteria.
• It has a variety of edge treatments and installation options

Cons:

• Quartz can rival high-end granite and marble in cost.
• Honed and textured finishes will show fingerprints and smudges, so frequent wipe-downs may be necessary.

Price range: $60 to $100 per square foot

Solid Surface

Solid Surface

Solid-surface materials are made of acrylic resin and crushed stone. Top brands include Corian, Gibraltar, Formica Solid Surfacing and Staron. You’ll find a wide range of solid colors and subtle patterns that pair especially well with contemporary decor.

Pros:

• Extremely durable and naturally resistant to water, bacteria and stains.
• Realistic flecked or streaked styles can rival natural stone.
• Virtually seamless.
• Minor damage can be buffed out.
• Available with integral sink and backsplash options, as well as custom color inlays and lighting effects.

Cons:

• Requires professional installation.
• Wear and scratches are more visible on darker colors.
• Can be damaged by intense heat or dropped objects.

Price range: $40 to $100 per linear foot

marble

Pros:

• Long lasting and strong enough to resist most chips or dents.
• Can be polished for a high shine or honed for a casual, matte finish.
• Adaptable to nearly every style.

Cons:

• It’s expensive.
• Marble’s porous nature makes it prone to stains, scratches and etching from acidic substances.
• Requires periodic sealing to maintain the finish.
• Price range: $125 to $150 per square foot, depending on thickness and installation

Concrete

Concrete

No longer exclusively an industrial material, concrete has miraculous shape-shifting abilities that allow an endless array of looks. Most concrete countertops are manufactured offsite for maximum quality control.

Pros:

• It’s an appealing organic material that can mimic the look of natural stone.
• Vast range of customized colors, textures and decorative inlays.
• Can be cast in the exact shape, dimensions and edge style desired.
• Extremely durable.
• Reasonably ecofriendly, especially when recycled content is added.

Cons:

• Professional design and installation are recommended.
• Because concrete is naturally porous, countertops need to be waxed and sealed regularly.
• Visible seam lines, although their appearance can be minimized with a colored filler.

Price range: $65 to $135 per square foot, not including installation

tile

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Laminate

Laminate has come a long way since the garish pastels and visible seams many of us remember from the ’60s and ’70s. Most commonly known as Formica, this easy-care product is composed of a thin plastic surface that’s pressure bonded to a particleboard or plywood base. The latest printing technologies are used for modern laminates to produce amazingly realistic stone- and wood-like finishes, as well as a plethora of solid and graphic patterns.

Pros:

• One of the most affordable countertop surfaces.
• Durable, water resistant and easy to clean.
• Warm to the touch.
• Presized products are widely available at home supply stores.
• Relatively easy to install without a professional.

• Laminate tends to thin or dull over time.
• Damages can’t be repaired; the entire counter usually needs to be replaced.