Kitchen Countertop materials that will help you choose what is best for you. Choosing the Right Countertop Material

• Marble- Marble is famous for creating an elegant and sophisticated feeling in the room. It has a classic look that always seems to be in style. No material can compete with marble for its smoothness. Marble remains cool, and that is why it is the choice of many pastry and baking stations.  The major benefit of marble is that it is highly resistant to heat, cracks and breakage. It won’t chip or dent easily. But you should keep in mind that marble is porous, so it can be scratched by acid, citrus, coffee, alcohol or some cleaning products even after sealing; so make sure to cook and entertain with proper care.
• Granite- Now-a-days granite is facing competition from other materials but its popularity is still unquestioned. There are many reasons why granite is popular- it has plenty of character, with unique grains, colors and finishes.         Granite is stain and crack resistant and it requires minimal maintenance. It is porous therefore yearly sealing is required, and because of its weight, it requires the cabinets beneath it to be very well built.
• . Laminate– It has a plastic coated surface and is available in a range of colors. There was a time when laminate was not considered as stylish, but due to new styles and techniques that is changing.      If you don’t have a very big budget, then this option may be best for you. This material is lightweight and requires less maintenance. It is not difficult to clean, but once damaged, you will not able to repair it. Moisture can peel its layers and if there are under mount sinks in your kitchen, then this option is not suitable for you.
• Quartz surfacing-    Quartz comes in about every shape imaginable. This is also known as engineered stone. It is made from ground quartz, resin, and pigments. It is a non- porous natural stone so no maintenance is required. It is environment friendly and resistant to damage and stains. It is one of the most expensive materials for your countertop.
• Solid surface- Basically, it is made from acrylic and polyester. It is man made and meant to provide years of low maintenance, beauty and service. This option provides great options for lively colors and modern finishes. It does not require maintenance as it is non-porous. It is resistant to stains, mildew and bacteria. It has smooth surface. Hot pans and sharp knives can damage this material.
• Butcher block-This material has a classic look and it always look fresh. It is stylish and versatile, that is .why it is becoming common in modern homes. This material is known for its natural feel. Just regular oiling or cleaning with soap and water is required for maintenance of butcher-block countertops. You will be able to easily sand scratches and stains. Since it cannot get damaged easily with knives, this may be a good fit for people who love cooking. There are three basic styles of butcher block: edge grain, flat grain, and end grain. Since these can be sanded, you can even resurface them for a new look down the road. Butcher Block is less expensive than Solid Surface Countertops and will provide you with years of style and versatility.