Looking for the perfect counter top? Picking the ideal tops for your kitchen or bath is not easy. Unfortunately, there are several myths and mixed messages making it difficult for consumers to get the real pros and cons of various surfaces.

Granite is the traditional favorite for its unique colors and patterns, proven durability and lasting value. Granite is heat, scratch and stain resistant and extremely durable. It does require sealing for optimum protection, but applying a sealer is a very simple and infrequent wipe on, wipe off task.

Marble, travertine and limestone are beautiful stones known for their elegant beauty. Hundreds of different color and pattern combinations are available. Most marble, travertine and limestone are porous and will stain rather easily. These stones are also softer than granite, making them more susceptible to scratches and etching — a clear, but noticeable dull mark on a polished surface resulting from contact with acidic food, drink or harsh cleaners. Prepare to have a patina on your countertop if you choose one of these for your kitchen. One way around etching is to have the whole countertop etched or “honed” prior to installation, creating an allover matte finish.

Soapstone is a great countertop option due to its nonporous nature, making it antibacterial, stain resistant and highly chemically resistant. It is also extremely heat resistant allowing you to put a hot pan right on the surface, where other natural stones can crack under extreme heat. It is softer than the other natural stones leaving it susceptible to scratches and dings, but with an occasional light application of mineral oil, these dings are not very noticeable.

For a minimal maintenance option, engineered stone may be for you. These countertops, which are a combination of natural quartz & resin, come in a wide variety of colors, appealing to both contemporary and traditional designs. They are durable, scratch resistant and are a cinch to maintain – no need for sealers or special cleaners. Engineered stone won't save any money over granite though; the two materials cost roughly the same.

Solid surface countertops are another option that can provide years of low maintenance beauty. This surface type resists stains well but is rather easily scratched and dented, and it can be damaged by heat. On the plus side, stains and scratches can be sanded or buffed away, it can be installed without seams and sinks can be molded right into the surface as one piece. Some brands such as Corian have come out with beautiful new color choices, and I believe this is one material that will be making a noticeable comeback.

Concrete countertops, which can be completely customized with pigments, are gaining popularity with the design savvy. However, extreme or abrupt changes in temperature may cause concrete to warp or curl, damp sponges left on the counter can cause discoloration and acidic spills may etch the surface. To help with this, it’s advisable to seal concrete countertops four times per year and wax with a paste every two to three months. Concrete countertops can withstand use if maintained well, but scratching and etching can be problems. For this surface most of the cost is in the installation, which is almost an art to do well. Not for the faint of heart.

Wood countertops like butcher block, instantly warm up a kitchen. They are easy to clean, and any scratches and most stains can be sanded out. Water damages butcher block quite easily though, so wood countertops must be oiled frequently to seal the surface.

Laminate is the most affordable countertop material on the market and comes in an array of colors and designs. Laminate can scorch if a hot pan touches the surface and has a reputation for scratching easily. However, the product has made strides in both scratch-resistance and color options in recent years.

Choosing the right countertops is one of the most important elements in your kitchen or bath remodel. It can update your style, enhance entertaining, improve the function of your kitchen or bath, provide years of enjoyment and add significant value to your home. Most professionals will agree that granite and engineered surfaces offer superior performance in nearly every type of installation, although aesthetics and price point must also be considered. So, take your time and give thoughtful consideration to all factors: color, pattern, finish, installation location, frequency and intensity of use, cleaning, maintenance and cost.

Susan Klimala, CKD & Co-Owner of The Kitchen Studio of Glen Ellyn

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