Kitchen Counertops.

Ceramic Tile: New ceramic tiles are introduced each year, with updated colors and textures. Ceramic tile has been out of favor in recent years as the countertop of choice, but is coming back in. It can be a good fit with some kitchen styles. Bright colors are perfect for modern styles. The grout joints between ceramic tiles are wider than joints between stone tiles. This is because stone tiles are cut more precisely.

Concrete: Concrete is a favored choice in many architect designed homes. The sleek look works with contemporary styles. It offers a soft color palette, and pleasant tactile feel. There are some concerns about stain resistance and durability.

Engineered Stone: Engineered stone, such as Silestone, is a popular choice. It is a slab material composed of stone pieces bound by epoxy plastic. This material is similar to Corian (a solid plastic slab), but with quartz and other stone chips added for a more natural look. This is a practical, stain resistant material with a selection of muted colors to choose from.

Glass Composite: Glass composite counters are an exciting new countertop choice. One brand, EnviroSlab, is made of glass chips bound in plastic. Another, Icestone, uses concrete as the binding material. These are considered a green choice because recycled glass chips are used. Glass composite counters offer a soft, muted palette and clean crisp look.

Limestone: Various kinds of limestone, such as Jerusalem, Leuder, and other hard limestones are available. Although they are more dense than some limestones, they may be too porous to resist the stains that can occur from normal food preparation. A good quality sealer is required after installation, and annual sealing may be necessary for maintenance.

Granite: Granite has been a universally popular choice in recent years. Granite is a strong, heat tolerant and stain resistant countertop. It is naturally beautiful material, and makes strong statement of quality. To lower the cost, tiles may be used instead of slab granite. The color selections are somewhat limited, and the shiny polished surface is less in demand than it has been.

Marble: Marble offers several choices in surface finish - from shiny polished, to matt honed, to rustic tumbled. Marable is a widely used and versatile material. The shiny polished and matt honed surfaces are smooth, easy to clean, and make a good workspace. Marble is a little more porous than granite, but it is dense enough for practical use in kitchens and bathrooms. Marble may be used in slab form or in a variety of tile sizes.

Plastic Slab: Epoxy slab material is very hard, easy to clean, and practical. Brands such as Corian were popular for awhile, but have lost favor in recent years because of their manufactured look.

Plastic Laminate: This affordable countertop cover is making a comeback in today’s urban style homes. It is easy to clean and there are lots of color choices.

Slate: Slate has been used for years on floors, and can serve as a natural stone countertop. The texture is on the rough side for a kitchen counter, and tiles may produce an uneven surface.

Soapstone: Soapstone has been in use for years on commercial and laboratory counters. It is a very durable and non-porous stone with a matt finish, and may be right for some kitchens. The color is limited to grey or black.

Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a strong, stain resistant and durable choice. In the right environment it may be the perfect countertop.