Countertop Materials



I am loving this herringbone backsplash I found!

We are in the middle of choosing countertops for the kitchen and I am researching different materials to find the best one for our family.  I decided to research a few products and share my findings.


When making an investment like new countertops it is important to keep the style of your home in mind as well as the time you plan to spend in your home. If you plan to move in 3 years it is better to go with a more conservative choice with resale in mind. Do not be afraid to consult a relator to see what is on trend for your area, especially if you plan to sell soon. If you live in a newer development where homes are still being built check out the models and spec homes to make sure your choice fits with the standard. All photos below and information came from HGTV.com.


Butcher-block





These offer such character and bring so much warmth to a kitchen. We have a fair amount of counter space especially considering we do not have an island. I am leaning towards doing a section in butcher block just to break things up but I am not 100% sold. I personally prefer the darker wood but it is also is available in a lighter tone. Click here for more information about butcher-block counter tops.


Soapstone


Picture source here

Soapstone is non porous and has been around for ages. The look of it is really growing on me and I love that it is a little more unexpected than the traditional granite but not as different as say concrete countertops. Click here for information about Soapstone.

Granite

Granite is traditional and more durable than marble. The natural looking stone is a personal favorite. However you will need to see the whole slab not just a sample when looking for granite. The stone can vary greatly. It is easy to clean and requires little maintenance. Click here to read more about granite.

 Marble

I absolutely LOVE the look of marble! That being said it is a very soft stone that can scratch and stain easily. I do not think it will be worth the stress it will cause me when my husband spills his soda or my son gets ketchup on it. I know you can seal it and people love it but there are also enough horror stories out there that I just don't think it is right for us. Click here for examples from HGTV.


Quartz





I am very surprised at the amount of quartz I have been seeing in model homes lately. It is growing in popularity and hopefully that will cause it to come down in price. Right now it is right up there if not above Granite. We have a very traditional style home and while Quartz is highly functional I just haven't found a style that I love. It is heat, scratch, and stain resistant and that does sound perfect for anyone with kids but I am not sure I am sold on the look. Click here to read more about Quartz.


 Later this month we are heading to a stone yard so I am hopeful something in a large slab will jump out at me and I will definitely keep you posted. In the meantime I would love to know what you are loving and not loving about the countertops in your homes.