5 Kitchen Countertop Materials You Should Consider

If you’re in the process of picking out kitchen countertops, then you probably realized at the beginning that it’s not an easy task. There are literally hundreds of countertop materials available which means making your final decision will be a challenge. The countertops take up most of the surface area therefore you can expect the countertop materials to have a huge influence the kitchen palette.

1. Granite
   At some point you’ve probably considered granite tops. After all, they are the most highly requested countertop material. There’s no wonder why. Granite is a natural stone that has tons of character. This material has several unique grains, colors and you can customize the finish. When granite is professionally and properly sealed you can expect it to be very durable. As far as price range it’s generally an affordable option at $50 per square foot. Exotic slabs increase in price.

2. Tile
   If you’re working within a small budget than you might want to opt for tile countertops. Tile is one of the most affordable material options. Ceramic and stone tiles are durable and if you’re savvy you can install them yourself. However, maintaining tile can be a challenge due to the grout which easily stain. To combat this, you should opt for a darker grout color.

3. Copper
   Copper isn’t a typical choice for countertops, but it can be just the material that your kitchen needs. Surprisingly, copper is relatively easy to clean and maintain. Copper reacts differently to substances creating a blend of green, brown and matte red. If you want the unique and vintage look of copper counters than you can expect to pay a minimum of $100 per square foot.

4. Zinc
   You’ve probably haven’t heard much about zinc since it’s one of the least popular countertop materials. Zinc will instantly warm a modern contemporary kitchen. You can expect this material to darken over time. Zinc has microbial properties that make it the perfect material to cook and prepare food on.

5. Paper Based Countertops
   While a recycle paper-based countertop sounds like the worst material it’s accompanied with several benefits. It’s an eco-friendly option! It’s composed of different resins and pigments providing the look of soapstone for a fraction of the cost.