A Guide to Buying Countertops

Countertops are the epitome of the design concept “form meets function”. They play a huge role in the overall look of your space, but also need to hold up to all of the uses they’ll be relied on for. In other words, they need to pull double duty in order to be right for you. There are many great options on the market today that cover a wide array of preferences and budgets. In this post we’ll cover six of the most widely used materials today, including:

• Quartz

• Granite

• Marble

• Soapstone

• Solid Surface (aka Corian)

• Laminate (aka Formica)

We’ll dive in to all the things consumers should think about when purchasing counters - their composition, strength and heat resistance, cleaning and maintenance, and average costs.

QUARTZ

Composition

Some people are surprised to learn that most quartz countertops are man made. While there are solid slabs available, they aren’t commonplace at all. Most quartz is made by mixing about 90-95% ground quartz with polymer resins which are then formed into slabs. Pretty cool, right?

Strength & Heat Resistance

Because of this composition of quartz and polymer resin, these counters are incredibly strong and scratch resistant. They rate at a 7 on the MOHS scale, which measures mineral hardness and goes from 1-10. This make up also makes them much less porous than other stones like granite and marble. However, they are less heat-resistant than other stone options, only able to withstand temperatures of about 300 degrees F. If exposed to higher temps the resins can change their chemical state which results in discoloring. So, be sure to use a towel or trivet under all of your hot pots and pans!

Cleaning & Maintenance

The non-porous nature of quartz means that they’re completely maintenance free - no sealing required! You can clean quartz with dish soap, glass or other gentle surface cleaners. Avoid anything abrasive, including cleaning solutions and scouring pads.

Average Cost

$100-200/sq ft installed

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GRANITE

Composition

This product is 100% natural. It is composed of minerals such as quartz, feldspar and mica and is formed deep below Earth’s surface. It's extracted as large rocks and then cut into slabs.

Strength & Heat Resistance

Granite is incredibly strong and durable, and is considered one of the hardest materials on Earth. Like quartz it rates at a 7 on the MOHS scale. It’s also incredibly heat resistant and withstands temperatures of over 1,600 degrees F. However, it’s also quite porous and therefore requires regular maintenance in order to protect it.

Maintenance & Cleaning

It is recommended that you seal granite countertops every 1-2 years, depending how much use they get. If it's left unsealed they can absorb moisture, leaving behind water marks that will make the counters look dirty all the time. Clean using soap and water or a granite-specific solution.

Average Cost

$50-100/sq ft installed

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MARBLE

Composition

Ahh, marble. So distinctive, so stately, so beautiful. Marble is limestone that has been compacted and heated over millions of years. It’s cut from the quarry in large blocks that are then cut into slabs, which are then shaped and polished. No two pieces of marble are alike, giving it a truly unique appearance.

Strength & Heat Resistance

Although these are solid slabs like granite, marble is much less durable and also more porous than granite. It scratches and stains easily in comparison to the other stone options. It rates from a 3-5 on the MOHS scale and is heat resistant up to 350 degrees.

Maintenance & Cleaning

When compared to quartz and granite, marble is a high-maintenance material - there’s just no way around it. Because it’s so porous, it requires sealing every 6 months. If it’s not properly maintained you’ll end up with water and oil stains everywhere. Clean with soap and water and avoid acidic cleaners at all costs!

Average Cost

$125-250 sq ft installed

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SOAPSTONE

Composition

Soapstone may be lesser known than the three previous stones, but it has been around for centuries. It contains the mineral talc, as well as quartz, magnesite and other minerals.

Strength & Heat Resistance

The talc in soapstone makes it relatively soft, yet it is somehow more dense than both quartz and granite! Sorcery. It only rates at a 1 on the MOHS scale but many homeowners love soapstone in the kitchen because of the heat resistance. You really can't hurt these guys with heat. You can, however chip them fairly easily due to their softness.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Using mineral oil every few months will help the color of your soapstone countertops stay rich and vibrant. Some recommend oiling as soon as you see the previous coat start to fade. Clean with soap and water or a mild surface cleaner.

Average Cost

$90-150 sq ft installed

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SOLID SURFACE

(aka Corian)

Composition

These man made countertops consist of a mix of acrylic particles and resins, which are then pressed into sheets.

Strength & Heat Resistance

These countertops are incredibly strong and durable. They’re scratch and impact resistant, non porous and not susceptible to bacteria. They are heat resistant up to about 320 degrees F.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Solid surface countertops are completely maintenance free and can be cleaned with mild soap or ammonia based cleaners.

Average Cost

$40-65 sq ft installed

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LAMINATE

(aka Formica)

Composition

Laminate countertops are the most affordable option on the market today. They are made from layers of papers and resins. Once’s the sheets are formed they are bonded to particle board. It comes in a variety of colors and finishes and is widely available.

Strength & Heat Resistance

While laminate countertops are made of a composite material and are durable to a certain extent, they can be scratched or chipped. Always use a cutting board! They are also vulnerable to heat, and can burn, stain and warp with direct contact to high temperatures.

Maintenance & Cleaning

The benefit of laminate is that it’s completely maintenance free, and can be cleaned with just about anything.

Average Cost

$20-40 sq ft installed

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We hope you’re feeling more educated on the ins and outs of countertops! If you still feel unsure you can always ask your contractor or local suppliers what they recommend. We’re here for you too! We can help coordinate beautiful options for you that will accent your home and make it stand out from the rest.