A counter puts up with a lot of abuse, from knives and hot pots in the kitchen to spilled makeup and splashed water in the bath. The material you choose has to be strong enough to withstand the punishment it’ll take and look good at the same time.
Here’s a quick rundown of the options when it comes to choosing countertop materials.
Laminate
Laminate counters – made from layers of kraft paper laminated together – are cheap, relatively easy to install, and come in countless colours and patterns. On the downside, they are not very durable and, in most cases, the only way to repair serious damage is to replace the entire section of counter. That’s why it’s essential to protect the surface with cutting boards and trivets for hot pots.
Tile
Countertop tiles range from cheap and simple ceramics to pricey pieces with gaudy patterns, and a full range of permutations in between.
The tiles themselves are fairly strong and easy to clean. The weak point in any tile job is the grout between the tiles. It should be sealed to prevent discoloration and monitored for signs of cracking and wear.
For information on the materials needed to install your own ceramic tile counter, see “Working With Ceramic Tile.”
Natural Stone
When it comes to stone, the number one choice for kitchen counters is granite. After all, if it’s able to withstand eons of geothermal heat and pressure, then get hauled out of the ground with heavy machinery, and still look that good, it’s probably strong enough to withstand the rigors of your kitchen. The big downside is the cost. The material alone is one of the most expensive on this list and, unless you were a stonemason in a previous life, you’ll need to hire a pro for the installation.
Marble is a popular choice in the bathroom for its classic, Romanesque appeal, but generally isn’t considered durable enough for kitchen counter applications.
Other, less-durable, stone options include limestone, slate, lava rock, and even turquoise. There are also engineered stone counters, sometimes called quartz surfacing, which are made of natural stone chips bound with epoxy resin.
Synthetics
Polyester and acrylic counters, sold under brand names like Corian and Gibraltar, have been around since the 1960s and have consistently grown in popularity. They’re durable and easily repairable if they are damaged. The main drawback, much like natural stone, is cost, particularly given that most synthetic counter manufacturers only allow licensed contractors to install their products.
Unusual alternatives
The list of counter materials is rounded out by the industrial (polished concrete and stainless steel) and the timelessly practical (wood). The first two are best suited to a very modern style kitchen while the latter is most often incorporated as a built-in cutting board, recessed into one of the other above-mentioned counters.
Allan Britnell - Allan Britnell is a freelance writer and editor based in Toronto, Canada. He is a regular contributor to a variety of Canadian magazines ...
