Countertop Materials Pros and Cons
| Material |
Pros
|
Cons
|
Estimated Cost
(sq foot) |
|
| Laminate | Less expensive; many colors; easy to install; flexible. |
Not as durable as others; can chip or crack, or show edges.
|
5-20
|
|
| Solid (e.g., Corian) | Solid color; can be molded to forms, including sink; easy care. |
Not entirely heat-proof; can scratch.
|
70-120
|
|
| Granite | Durable; resists chipping and scratches; easy care. |
Limited color range; requires sealing to avoid stains.
|
70-200
|
|
| Quartz | Durable; hard; will not stain; can be cut on. |
Cannot be formed (as with Corian); limited color range
|
70-250
|
|
| Tile | Heat-resistant; many colors, designs, shapes available. |
Grout lines can stain; not for cutting.
|
5-100
|
|
| Stainless Steel |
Can be integrated w/sinks; easy care; resistant to stain. |
Shows wear (like scratches); can dent.
|
80-110
|
|
| Wood | Built-in cutting surface; easy to refinish (sand and oil). |
Must be sealed; sinks not integrated.
|
8-45
|
