Countertops are a major consideration for many home builders and homeowners. They are the perfect backdrop for your kitchen, bathroom, or bar area.
However, they can also be expensive to choose from and install on your project! The cost of countertop materials varies depending on what you’re looking for, but one thing is for sure: there are many options.
We’ve compiled the most common considerations and prices in this article so you can weigh your options and find the right countertop for you!
Average Square Foot Of Kitchen Countertops
| Countertop | Cost Per Square Foot |
Five Feet Long Countertop Estimation
|
| Bamboo | from $35 to $55 | $500 |
| Concrete | from $65 to $135 | $1,100 |
|
Engineered quartz
|
from $70 to $120 | $900 |
| Granite | from $40 to $200 | $1,500 |
| Laminate | from $100 to $300 | $2,000 |
| Lava Stone | from $250 to $300 | $2,800 |
| Limestone | from $50 to $100 | $800 |
| Marble | from $40 to $200 | $1,500 |
| Porcelain | from $50 to $150 | $1,200 |
| Reclaimed wood | from $30 to $140 | $1,200 |
| Recycled Glass | from $50 to $80 | $600 |
| Slate | from $50 to $65 | $700 |
| Soapstone | from $50 to $100 | $800 |
| Solid surface | from $30 to $85 | $700 |
| Stainless Steel | from $70 to$215 | $1,600 |
| Tile | from $35 to $75 | $600 |
| Travertine | from $50 to $100 | $800 |
|
Wood or Butcher Block
|
from $40 to $100 | $750 |
Bamboo Countertops
Bamboo countertops can be made with bamboo sheets or 3D printed material. The leaves are glued and bonded to the countertop frame, and the 3D printed material is molded and then bonded to the frame.
It is important to keep the countertop clean and protected from stains. Bamboo countertops are usually finished with resin or oil to protect the bamboo from stains.
Pros
- Affordable. They range in price from $500 to $3,500.
- Durable and strong in daily use.
- It is a renewable resource that can be harvested sustainably.
- It can be incorporated into a green lifestyle.
Cons
- They are lightweight and tend to move during use.
- Can be damaged by extreme temperatures.
- Vulnerable to water damage.
Concrete Countertops
Concrete countertops are made using a mixture of concrete and stone as the main ingredient to produce a strong, hard surface material. This material is much heavier than your normal countertops, and you need to make sure there is a solid plaster to support its weight.
Concrete countertops are durable materials, and it’s hard to damage them, but there are some things you need to be aware of. If you put hot or cold materials directly on top of the countertop, you will eventually crack or damage your countertop.
Concrete countertops usually have a thin layer of marble, granite, or tile. This layer is easy to remove and move and replace if the top surface has dents or scratches.
Pros
- Concrete countertops are scratch-resistant.
- Concrete countertops are also dishwasher safe.
- They are fire retardants.
Cons
- Concrete countertops are extremely heavy and difficult to move.
- They must be secured with mortar.
Engineered quartz countertop
It is also known as an engineered quartz countertop because of the manufacturing process used. This type of countertop has fine stone particles that are contained in a polyester resin.
A base is added to the mixture to facilitate drilling, polishing, and staining. The stone particles are then sprayed onto a glass slab while the resin cures. The size of the particles will define the thickness of the countertop.
This type of countertop is easy to maintain. The surface can be kept clean with a simple glass of water and a cloth. You can also use soap-free cleaners and hot water to clean, with a mild soap at the end to rinse.
Engineered quartz countertops are usually more expensive than granite because you are buying the countertop and the glass slab at the same time.
Pros
- Looks like granite but is more durable.
- Can be cut to fit your space better than granite.
Cons
- More expensive than granite. (this depends on the cost of a slab)
- It is not UV resistant, which means it will show scratches over time.
Granite countertop
Granite is a stone with a resistant surface. It is one of the most commonly used countertops chosen by customers because of its beauty, strength, and durability. Granite is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
Maintenance depends on the material used. For example, marble countertops require periodic cleaning and polishing. On the other hand, solid surfaces, such as granite, are very durable and do not need to be cleaned often.
Homeowners who choose granite countertops choose them for their beautiful appearance. They are looking for something that looks like stone but is more durable and does not need to be cleaned often.
Pros
- Well-fitted countertops are a must for new homes.
- Granite is easier to cut than other materials.
- It has a smooth surface that is easy to clean.
- Granite countertops can be applied in both wet and dry areas of the home.
Cons
- Granite is a natural stone, so colors and patterns vary from slab to slab.
- Granite must be sealed, polished, and resealed annually to prevent staining.
- Granite is a natural stone, so it is more expensive than other materials.
- Granite is scratch-resistant, but not wear-resistant.
Laminate countertops
Laminate countertops are a solid surface. The countertop is made of a single layer, and this layer has a laminate finish. It is also made of solid stone, plastic, metal, or wood.
Unlike solid surface countertops, the laminate must be maintained regularly to be easily cleaned and polished for a new look.
The cost of a laminate countertop varies from place to place. It depends on the price of the materials used, the configuration of the workplace, and the installation work.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Easy to maintain.
- Easy to clean.
- Has a smooth surface that won’t chip or crack like ceramic or laminate stone.
Cons
- Expensive.
- Laminate costs more than the price of a solid surface countertop.
- Not as durable as a solid surface countertop.
Lava Stone Countertops
Lava stone is actually one of the oldest stones. The name “lava stone” is derived from the Hawaiian word for lava, “lapa”.
Lava stones were often used as kitchen countertops in ancient times. Lava rocks were mined and solidified in the ocean. They are a type of basalt, which is an extrusive igneous rock.
There are two types of lava stone countertops. The first type is called “black lava stone” and has a rough appearance. This texture is caused by the rapid cooling of these rocks in the earth. The other type of countertop is called “pink marble” and has been polished to a smooth finish.
The most common types of lava stone countertops are simple to clean. Lava stone is usually made of basalt, which means they have a hardness similar to granite.
Lava stone countertops are resistant to most stains. However, you should avoid red wine, chocolate, coffee, tea, and other acidic foods. Be sure to quickly wipe up any liquids that may spill on the countertop.
Pros
- Easy to maintain
- Long-lasting
- Is beautiful
- Natural look
Cons
- Lava stones are porous, so moisture can seep in. Moisture causes corrosion on the countertop surface.
- Smaller pieces of lava stone can be more susceptible to bacteria and harmful bacteria.
- Lava stone countertops are not as easy to clean as granite.
Limestone Countertops
Limestone is an ideal choice for kitchen countertops because of its durability and style. A limestone countertop is made from compressed limestone with a powdered finish.
Limestone is known for its ability to stand the test of time, making it a classic choice for homeowners. A limestone countertop is also easy to clean.
Limestone is a fairly durable material, making it less susceptible to damage than other materials.
It is also fairly easy to clean. This is why many homeowners choose limestone for their kitchen countertops.
To install an average limestone countertop, you’ll need to spend about $70 minimum. That’s about the cost per square foot of a stone surface.
Pros
- Durable material
- Easy to clean
- Elegant and classic look
- Stable and even surface
Cons
- Expensive compared to other materials like granite, marble or wood.
- More difficult to install than other materials.
Marble countertops
Marble is a rock composed of calcite or aragonite. It was first used as a countertop in biblical times. Marble has long been used for architectural purposes, including floors, columns, walls, and tombstones.
The use of marble as a countertop is based on its great strength. In fact, marble is one of the strongest and most durable materials in building construction. It has been used since the early 1900s as a material for countertops.
The maintenance of marble countertops is quite easy. All you have to do is wash it with soap and water, then use a soft cloth to dry the countertop. Always make sure to clean the countertop after using it.
Pros
- Beautiful
- High strength
- Durable
- Easily cleaned
- Waterproof
Cons
- Expensive
- Time-consuming
Porcelain countertops
Porcelain countertops are made of porcelain material and have a similar appearance to marble. It is distinguished by the fact that it is smooth, polished, and has low reflectivity.
One of the main pros of porcelain countertops is that they are easy to maintain. As long as you use a soft sponge or an approved cleaner to clean it, you can effectively remove stains and marks.
Pros
- Beautiful and elegant styling
- Easy to maintain
Cons
- Expensive
- Vulnerable to heat
Reclaimed wood countertops
Reclaimed wood countertops are the newest trend in interior design. Reclaimed wood countertops bring an impressive look and give the kitchen a touch of sophistication and character. Reclaimed wood countertops can be used in both residential and commercial kitchens.
Reclaimed wood countertops must be maintained to keep them looking good. They should not be cleaned with harsh, abrasive cleaners. The best way to clean countertops is to use a soft cloth and warm water to wipe them down.
Prices for reclaimed wood countertops are directly proportional to the cost of the reclaimed wood. Smaller pieces of wood are more expensive than larger pieces.
Pros
- Reclaimed wood countertops have a warm, natural look
- Reclaimed wood countertops are environmentally friendly and easily accessible.
Cons
- It’s difficult to replicate the style of a reclaimed wood countertop, which can be a drawback for first-time buyers.
Recycled Glass Countertops
Recycled glass countertops are the latest innovation in modern kitchen design.
Recycled glass adds a stylish look to the kitchen, and it is also easy to clean and maintain.
Many people are concerned about disposing of their waste in landfills.
You can clean the recycled glass countertop with regular soap and water.
Recycled glass is also easy to replace or repair if it is chipped or broken.
Recycled glass is a less expensive alternative to stone or acrylic countertops.
Other traditional countertop materials, such as granite or wood, have a higher cost, but they are also durable and long-lasting.
Pros
- Environmentally friendly recycling reduces landfill waste in the United States.
- Less expensive than other countertop materials.
- Attractive appearance compared to granite or other natural stones. The convenience of recycling
- is widely available with glass recycling facilities.
Cons
- Styles may not exactly match yours.
- Typically, recycled glass countertops are made to order, so it can take anywhere from 3 weeks to 1 month for the countertop to be installed.
Slate Countertops
A slate countertop is a very durable type of natural stone that can resist scratches and stains. In general, these countertops are perfect for kitchens where there are small children and pets.
Slate countertops can last for decades without getting damaged. Slate also comes in different colors such as black, brown, green, and gray.
It is easy to clean slate countertops. All you need is warm water and mild soap. No abrasive sponges or cleaning chemicals should be used. Slate countertops can be cleaned with liquid dishwasher detergent and diluted white vinegar.
Pros
- They are very durable.
- They can withstand very high temperatures.
- They are less expensive than granite or marble.
- Slate can come in different colors and textures, making them more interesting than traditional granite or marble.
Cons
- They are a bit more difficult to install than other countertops.
- They are not as luxurious or beautiful as marble or granite.
Soapstone countertop
Soapstone countertops are made from a natural stone called soapstone. It is produced in the form of slabs, tiles, and countertops. Soapstone comes in a variety of colors, including red, green, and brown. These colors are the result of the mixture of minerals in the stone.
Soapstone countertops are very resistant to wear. The countertop remains scratch-free even in extreme weather conditions. However, the most common Cons of soapstone are that it is porous and also absorbs stains easily.
Pros
- Soapstone countertops are very durable and naturally scratch-resistant.
- They are affordable compared to other natural stone countertops.
- Soapstone countertops can be installed easily without requiring highly skilled labor.
Cons
- Soapstone countertops do not provide a perfect finish because they are not smooth.
- Soapstone is very absorbent and can stain easily. The larger the countertop, the more stains it will absorb.
Solid surface countertops
A solid surface countertop is a non-porous, scratch-resistant laminate of ceramic and resin bonded to a plastic film.
The material is very durable, has a low coefficient of friction with food, and does not absorb oils from food. It is easy to clean. It is an ideal choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops.
A solid surface countertop is a durable material but not very easy to maintain. Stone countertops are also very durable but have surprisingly many more maintenance-related issues.
Take care of your solid surface countertops by keeping them clean with a mild detergent. Use water and a clean towel to wipe away stains.
To remove stubborn stains, use a pumice stone to scrub the stain, then clean with water.
Pros
- Scratch-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Non-porous
Cons
- Not very easy to maintain
- Restrictive for cooking
- Visible seam lines
- Not very heat resistant
- May crack or warp under excessive direct sunlight
Stainless Steel Countertops
Stainless steel countertop is a popular choice for kitchen countertops today. It is the most durable type of material for countertops.
It is made of metal, and its scratches do not show because it is polished.
It also withstands heat and other conditions better than most other kitchen countertop materials.
This makes stainless steel countertops ideal for the kitchen because, in the kitchen, there are mostly hot items.
Stainless steel countertops are easy to maintain. You don’t need to clean or polish it frequently because it becomes scratch resistant with regular use.
Pros
- They are easy to clean.
- They are one of the most durable materials for countertops.
- Resistant to scratches and stains.
- Can be disinfected easily.
Cons
- Expensive.
- Stainless steel countertops are heavier than most other kitchen countertop materials. This makes them more difficult to install and repair when torn.
- Compared to other countertops, they are not very good for staining or heavy-duty cooking.
Tile countertops
Tile countertops only have a few tiles. The tile is placed on the countertop. The countertop is used for cooking and food preparation.
It is easy to clean the tile countertop. Just clean it with a sponge and warm water.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Heat resistant
Cons
- Possibility of cracking.
- The countertop is heavy because of the ceramic or glazed tiles. It takes a lot of effort to move them.
- Tiles can be slippery and are not good for food preparation.
Travertine countertop
Travertine countertop is a natural stone with layers, and it is produced from metamorphic limestone. It is a sedimentary rock formed in shallow seas, with layers of sediment covered by mineral deposits.
Travertine countertops can be stored year-round without having to do anything, but you should watch out for any scratches or chips that may appear and take care of them immediately because they can deteriorate easily.
Pros
- It is more durable than most other countertops.
- It comes in the form of a beautiful natural stone.
- Travertine countertops are affordable for most people.
Cons
- Travertine countertops are prone to scratching and chipping.
Wood or Butcher Block Countertop
Wood or butcher block countertops are the most traditional and popular choices for a countertop. It is made from hardwood, usually oak, teak, or maple.
These countertops get their name from the fact that they are used in butcher shops as work surfaces for cutting meat.
Because wood countertops are porous, they easily absorb stains. To maintain their beauty, you should pre-treat them with a dark wax polish or make sure they are covered with a thin, durable coating.
Wooden countertops are one of the most expensive choices. Butcher block countertops cost less than other materials like granite and marble.
Pros
- It is smooth and easy to clean.
- It looks natural.
Cons
- Because it is porous, it stains easily.
- It bends and cracks easily if not treated with a topcoat or waxed.