Your kitchen design needs a dependable work surface and your countertop can be that finishing touch that brings your entire kitchen aesthetic together. There are many countertop materials available, so it can be difficult to choose the right one for your new custom home. Explore the pros and cons of common countertop materials to choose the right fit for your design and budget.

Great Granite

One of the most luxurious and high-end materials available is granite. This hard stone is an excellent choice for a natural product that is truly unique. After granite slabs are cut, polished, and sealed, they are reasonably stain resistant and come in a remarkable range of natural colors and patterns.

While stain resistant, granite is a porous material. It’s still prone to staining, particularly from red wine and other spills. You need to pick up a special stone cleaner to avoid too much abrasion. The stain-resistant coating can wear off after years of use, so you may need to have it resealed or be more cautious about stains in the future.

Quality Quartz

Quartz is a natural material that’s used in an engineered stone countertop. Popular in custom homes, quartz balances the natural look of granite with a more stain-resistant surface. It’s also typically more affordable than granite, making it a popular alternative. Enjoy a dependable work surface without sacrificing the quality.

Engineered quartz countertops are approximately 10% binders and 90% quartz. Even this 10% of binders can affect the depth of the natural look. The clarity and radiance are going to be slightly less prominent than granite.

Luxury Laminate

A rugged and affordable option, laminate comes in a wide range of colors and textures that mimic higher quality materials. Compared to natural stone products, laminate has a more consistent look throughout the entire length of the countertop. You’ll save a significant amount by choosing laminate, which leaves you room in your budget for quality appliances, light fixtures and cabinets.

This material may be tough, but it has a much more artificial look than other countertops. The softer material can be sanded to remove scratches and stains, but it is much easier to scratch and chip than granite or quartz. Laminate isn’t seen as the most iconic option for a custom home, so it won’t add as much to your home value.

Simple Slate

This dense stone comes in five basic colors. This maintenance-free material is non-porous and durable. It isn’t as costly as other natural stone options and isn’t as popular, so you can enjoy a unique kitchen design with custom slate countertops. Receive many of the natural stone benefits without choosing the same granite or quartz found in most custom homes.

Slate is a softer material than granite, marble or other stone products. You may need to buff out minor scratches and surface damage with steel wool to restore the smooth, flawless look you love.

Marvelous Marble

The pinnacle of simple elegance, marble countertops are a highly refined choice for homeowners looking to balance luxury with practical work areas. Iconic marbling helps countertops stand out, and the smooth surface is a timeless choice for preparing dough, pasta and other homemade ingredients.

Marble is a soft, porous stone. Compared to granite, quartz or stainless steel, it’s easy to stain and scratch. You’ll need to work carefully to maintain the luxurious and elegant look of marble.

Safe Stainless Steel

The ideal choice for industrial aesthetic kitchens, stainless steel is a rugged and dependable option. Whether you’re cutting meat, preparing pasta or mixing cookie dough, stainless steel is a durable surface that’s easy to clean and sanitize.

The industrial practicality of stainless steel doesn’t mesh well with every interior design and it may contrast with your cabinets and flooring.

Wonderful Wood

Butcher block countertops offer a sense of warmth that’s difficult for other countertop surfaces to provide. The natural colors and deep tones of wood beautifully contrast with your stainless-steel appliances. Hardwood countertops range between blond, red and dark tones, so you can select a shade that compliments your kitchen design perfectly.

Wood requires more maintenance than other countertops. The relatively soft surface needs to be sanded and refinished for proper maintenance. Failure to maintain your countertop can result in cracking and splitting.

Design Your Kitchen for Daily Use

Everyday cooking, cleaning and food preparation require a spacious kitchen. Whether you’re looking for timeless elegance or a practical and affordable work surface, your local Wausau Homes builder can connect you with the best countertops for your design and budget. Work with your local Wausau Homes Builder today to get started designing your dream home and enjoy the custom kitchen that you deserve.