COUNTERTOPS
For a very long time, granite was the only countertop people wanted. In recent years, there has been an explosion in countertop surface options with quartz materials becoming a hugely popular alternative. I thought I would try to summarize some of the pros and cons of each of these surfaces and talk a bit about a few of the major brands. Some of the key factors in comparing the options are:
Cost: While cost is an important factor, I have found you can usually find a good solution for any budget. Factors like fabrication, installation, edge profile and pattern/color will definitely impact your cost.
Durability: How does the material hold up over time. Here its important to think of your end use - will the countertop be in a busy kitchen with lots of spills or a small powder room which is seldom used.
Maintenance: I always recommend using products that are designed specifically for the material surface. Beware of using Windex, Clorox or other common cleaning products as depending on the surface they can do lots of harm. And of course, avoid abrasive cleaners and sponges.
GRANITE
- Cost: Granite varies widely in price, but can be an economical choice in the more popular patterns and in shapes already sized for countertops (pre-fab). $50-100+ per sq ft. If you are not picky, you can sometimes find a prefab slab as low as $250.
- Durability: When properly sealed and cared for, it is very resistant to stains, scratches and heat. However, granite can chip or crack if something is dropped on it.
- Maintenance: Sealing is essential and using a cleaner specifically for granite is important for long term wear. Avoid using vinegar to clean granite as it will dull the surface over time. Most common household cleaners will degrade the sealer and once that is gone, your granite will be vulnerable.
Brown and gold patterned granite can look dated in the 2020’s - Santa Cecilia is an example of this. Opt for lighter colors, greys/blacks or interesting distinctive patterns.
MARBLE
- Cost: Marble can actually be an economical choice but tends to have pricing similar to granite. $40-75+ sq ft, ~$600-700 for a prefab slab.
- Durability: Marble is a delicate material. Soft and porous, it is prone to staining, etching, chips or scratches. It is long lasting if properly maintained.
- Maintenance: Sealing is must and as is using a cleaner specifically for marble. Avoid any cleaner with bleach, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and ammonia.
Marble is a baker’s choice - cool to touch it is perfect for rolling out pie crusts. But a spill of blueberry pie filling or red wine can create a nasty stain. In bathrooms, cosmetics and hair products can create issues. If you love a marble look but are worried about maintenance consider quartz.
QUARTZ
- Cost: Similar to granite, but prefab options can be very economical. $50-100+ per sq ft. Prefab between $500-700.
- Durability: Quartz is non-porous and cannot host bacteria, mold or mildew. Extremely stain resistant and most brands are heat resistant.
- Maintenance: No sealing is ever needed. Use cleaners designed for quartz surfaces or mild soap/water. Use a trivet for hot pans, just in case.
Huge number of choices in patterns. Great alternative to mimic the look of marble or other soft porous materials like soapstone, onyx or travertine without the maintenance hassles.
Headquartered in Isreal, Caesarstone was one of the first big brands in quartz. They have had a plant in Georgia for many years and have some of most iconic quartz colors such as Frosty Carrina, Fresh Concrete and Pure White. The company is committed to sustainability and you can’t go wrong with their lifetime warranty. They recently launched a product specifically for outdoors.
By far, Cambria is my favorite brand for its wide variety of colors and patterns. Their marble alternatives are fabulous. I am sure you have seen their Brittanicca pattern on HGTV more than a few times. Based in Minneapolis, they introduce new patterns regularly and are always on trend. Some of my favorites - Delgatie, Portrush, Newport and Foggy City (perfect for that San Francisco project I have coming up!).
Based in Spain, Silestone is very popular in Europe. They make wonderful integrated quartz sink/countertop combinations for a seamless bathroom countertop and also have quartz shower floor trays. Their large format panels make great shower walls (no grout lines to worry about).
There are a number of other options for countertops that depending on the project can be interesting and beautiful.
PORCELAIN
All the reasons I love porcelain flooring in a counter top. Easy to maintain and stain, scratch and heat resistant. Great for outdoors as it’s UV resistant. However, they are somewhat difficult for fabricators because like any tile, in large sizes, there is more a chance of chipping or breaking during installation. Do the research and compare to other surfaces like quartz before deciding.
DEKTON
By the makers of Silestone, Dekton is a blend of glass, porcelain and quartz without resins. It is lighter than other natural stone and quartz and comes in very large formats. It is highly resistant to hot and cold, UV resistant, scratch resistant and stain-proof. It has been used in large commericial spaces for walls and floors but is available for residential use.
WOOD
Whether butcher block or a live edge slab, wood makes a beautiful countertop. I love it for a kitchen island. Wood does require more maintenance and is not as naturally hygienic as other surfaces. It will show wear and tear more readily.
TERRAZZO
This earth friendly product is having a moment. Made from recycled glass, quartz, shell and other fragments, the options are very beautiful. Make sure the manufacturer uses a low VOC epoxy. They are not for outdoors use as they are not UV resistant and you should avoid use in a very sunny room. In addition, they do need sealer to perserve stain and scratch resistance.
