Materials Comparison

Pros
Cons
$ 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
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