Can’t decide…granite, laminate, stainless steel – there are so many counter top options to choose from which one is right for you? Three factors to consider are price, maintenance and appearance. 

Prices can range from $2 per square foot to $250 per square foot, with few falling right in the mid-range, which may be a blessing in disguise as the mid-range counters have the most critics. 

Maintenance must be considered carefully choosing a counter top some require regular almost daily upkeep while others can be left alone with little or no upkeep save standard cleaning. Whether or not it can stand up to a hot plate or knife cut, should also be considered depending on who will be using the kitchen, a child just learning to cook or playing in the kitchen could ruin your pristine butcher block counter. 

Finally, the look; do you desire something welcoming and warm, or are you looking for a strong clean look. Do you like variety in the color or do you prefer a nice consistency? 

Here are a few pro’s and con’s for the more popular counter tops. 

Laminates aren’t necessarily the “in” much talked about option but they are still the number one counter top material used in homes. They are easy to care for resisting most stains, and are easy to maintain. Laminates are great for matching colors, or if you have a particular scheme you are looking for, and they are extremely budget friendly. The major drawback is they are easily damaged by hot pots, sharp knives and abrasive cleaners. 

Solid surface otherwise known as Corian entered the market about 35 years ago, and are thriving still. They are considered non-porous and as such are great for food preparation and difficult to stain. They can be formed into almost any shape and size making them great options for hard to fit areas. Because they are uniform throughout small scratches and damage can be easily buffed out. This type of counter is expensive and does require an installer who knows what they are doing. 

Granite is still very highly desired especially since it is naturally stain resistant and when sealed even tougher. Granite has gone from being considered exotic to much more accessible and affordable. Every slab is unique, which though attractive to many is not so to others. It will require professional installation particularly if there are seams or cuts to be made. 

Engineered Stone is a newer type of counter top that can resemble various types of stone. This type of counter is desirable for their non-porous state making them nearly impossible to stain, and they are scratch resistant. This product is expensive, and can crack or change color if exposed to severe temperatures hot or cold. 

Stainless Steel is used extensively in restaurants, however due to the expense and fabrication are rarely found in homes. Though they are easy to clean and hold up to hot pots, they easily show water marks and finger prints. 

Wood though not overly expensive becomes so when you go to an actual butcher block. Wood requires much more care and is not antibacterial. An oil finish is recommended, but for eating areas a varnish is a better option for protection. 

Tile though inexpensive and even an easy do-it-yourself job, it is held in by grout which can stain and become dirty easily. Not all tiles are created equal granite, porcelain and glazed tiles are the most sturdy, marble or limestone are absorbent and soft thus not good options for a top. 

There are more exotic types of tops, marble, soapstone, concrete, richlite, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. As always work with your contractor closely so that they can guide you through the maze of counter top options to the outcome that best suits your kitchens look and your personal needs. 

Dreaming of that perfect kitchen? Visited a friend and didn't want to leave their bathroom? Attended a party and couldn't believe the custom cabinetry? 

When you see an idea / look you like snap a picture! Missed the chance to grab a picture, don’t worry check out any of the great home design magazines like Better Homes and Gardens and Architectural Digest, or go on-line to www.pinterest.com, www.houzz.com or even HGTV’s site all provide great ideas. 

Pull all your ideas together in a scrapbook, or digitally, so when you meet up with your contractor you don’t have to dig for your dream ideas. 

Once you get some ideas sit down with your contractor and make sure what you want will actually work in the space you have, a good contractor will be honest and let you know if your desire for a copper stove hood will actually work in the confines of your space and if not they will have great options for you. Perhaps you are longing for woodblock counter-tops, these might be perfect for a single person, or couple without children, but in home with children your gorgeous counter-tops could quickly look like old wood ready for the fireplace as they are easily damaged, a good contractor will take into account your current situation and your future needs before moving forward. 

Now go forth to find those looks you love and call a contractor you can trust to help you through the process and leave you loving the outcome. 

Check it out we are now featured on Houzz.com - a web site and online community about architecture, interior design and decorating, landscape design and home improvement. It is a great place to get ideas, talk to others about your ideas and of course find a great contractor!