If you have a large family, love to cook or just like to stay busy in the kitchen, you need a countertop that can withstand your demanding culinary lifestyle. You need a stone that will last you many years, of course, but one that also resists scratches, is easy to clean and doesn’t take a lot of maintenance.
From quartz to granite, here’s a look at the best countertops that are tested and rated to resist stains, cuts, heat damage, abrasion, and impact. We will also take a look at non-stone surfaces for comparison.
Quartz
Quartz mimics the look of natural stone but doesn’t require all the maintenance. This stone, comprised of minerals, colors, and resins, can withstand serrated knives, hot pots, abrasive pads, and even most stains. It’s available in lots of vibrant colors and patterns similar to granite and marble.
On the flip side, corners may chip, so if you can, choose rounded edges to help in this department.
Granite
Each slab of granite, a beautiful natural material, can feature rare veining and coloring. Cuts, heat, and scratches won’t damage your countertops, either. Stick with polished and matte finishes, which have been found to resist stains the best when sealed.
You may have to perform periodic resealing to keep stains at bay. Just like quartz, corners and edges can get chipped and will have to be professionally repaired.
Soapstone, Limestone, Marble
While not as common as granite, soapstone is still an excellent choice for countertops because it resists heat damage. You can repair small scratches by sanding the surface finely and adding a bit of mineral oil. Limestone and marble are both classic materials that have a natural appearance sans veining or graining. Limestone resists heat fairly well, but the same can’t always be said of marble. Soapstone can cut, nick and scratch easily, and some stains are just too much of a challenge for washing.
Recycled Glass
This is an exciting countertop option with a sleek and contemporary look that’s both durable and beautiful. They are typically comprised of nearly 80 percent recycled glass as well as man-made stones to result in a shiny, eco-friendly finish. They are perfect for busy kitchens because they are heat-, scratch- and stain-resistant.
Concrete
Concrete countertops are versatile and extremely durable while still offering the look and feel of natural stone or metal. Comprised of general-purpose mortar, sand and pigments, concrete counters come in many color options. Keep in mind that because concrete is porous, it could stain, so make sure you seal it as soon as it’s installed.
Butcher Block
Butcher block offers a warm and traditional look to your kitchen, and it’s easy to install and repair. The finish makes all the difference, though. Varnish will improve stain resistance, but penetrating oils will reduce it. Be careful of nicks and scratches. If they do happen, you can sand them out.
Contact Granite Guy
Not sure which stone to go with in your busy kitchen? Our Newton stone installers can help you decide. Just contact us today at 508-460-7900 to get a free quote and consult.