Choosing a material that works for you

The toughest part of the kitchen counter decision may be figuring out what you care about most. Durability? A unique look? Color? Price? Here’s a look at some of the most common options, with an assessment of their quality from designers, manufacturers and the website www.kitchen.com.

Concrete

Pros: Modern, industrial look. Can be made in any shape and in a variety of colors.

Cons: Can stain and crack, though that also may be an appeal. Relatively expensive. May need a sealer and wax applied periodically to protect against staining.

Granite

Pros: Huge range of colors and prices. Durable. Stain- and heat-resistant, though some sealers commonly used to combat its porous qualities can be damaged by excessive heat.

Cons: Some designers say it has become overused.

Tile

Pros: Budget-friendly. Unlimited color and pattern choices. Durable, heat- and stain-resistant.

Cons: Grout can stain and be tough to clean. Not a smooth surface for some cooking tasks.

Glass

Pros: Looks new and modern. Can be made in many colors, patterns and shapes. Translucent qualities enable natural light to pass through. Nonporous, heat-resistant, easy to clean. Can be made from recycled glass.

Cons: Shows fingerprints. Can crack or break.

Marble

Pros: Classic looks. Sometimes has translucent quality. Great for making and rolling pastry dough because it’s cool to the touch.

Cons: Can stain.

Laminates

Pros: Huge range of colors, patterns and finishes. Budget-friendly. Easy to maintain.

Cons: Chips can be difficult to repair.

Engineered quartz

Pros: Extremely tough. Dozens of colors and patterns. Easy to clean. Consistent color and detail. Many manufacturers, including CaesarStone, Silestone, Cambria. Considered more sustainable, as remnants often can be recycled.

Cons: Lacks unique colorations and details found in marble or granite.

Stainless steel

Pros: Durable. Stain-resistant. Looks like a professional kitchen. Other metals, such as zinc and copper, lend an unusual appearance that will change over time.

Cons: Can show fingerprints and scratch.

Wood

Pros: Can be used as a chopping board.

Cons: Shows knife marks. Susceptible to water damage. Requires periodic reoiling.

Other natural stone

Pros: Slate, soapstone, quartzite, lava stone and others can provide a variety of looks. Soapstone gives a traditional farmhouse appeal, while lava stone is as modern as can be. Some can be made into sinks as well.

Cons: Depending on the rarity, it can be expensive.

Solid surfaces

Pros: Products such as Corian come in a variety of shapes, colors and finishes. Non-porous, low-maintenance. Can be made into a seamless piece.

Cons: Can be stained or scratched, though marks can be repaired, sometimes with just an abrasive cleaner.

-- Mary MacVean