Choosing the Right Countertop for Your Home
Researching and selecting the countertop surface that best fits your needs can be a daunting task. To help focus your selection process, ask yourself the following questions:
- Am I going to worry when my kids or guests spill orange juice or red wine on my countertop?
- Do I care if my countertop material is natural, plastic, or man-made?
- Do I like a color that is consistent or one that is unique with patterns and veins?
- Does it matter if I set pots that are still hot on my countertop?
- How much do I have to spend on my countertop?
- Would I like the option of an integral or under mount sink?
Countertop Material Comparisons
| Granite | QUARTZ | ACRYLIC SURFACES | LAMINATE | Butcher Block | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scratch/Abrasive Resistant | 5 | 4.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 1 |
| Stain Resistant | 4 | 5 | 5 | 3.5 | 2 |
| Heat Resistant | 5 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 3 |
| Non-Porous | 3 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 1 |
| Food Safe | no | yes | yes | yes | no |
| Easy to Maintain | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 2 |
| Repairability | 4 | 3 | 5 | 1 | 3 |
| Renewable Surface | 4 | 2 | 5 | 5 | 1 |
| Requires Sealing | yes | no | no | no | yes |
| Price Range | $$$$ | $$$$$ | $$$ | $$ | $$$ |