Searching for the most popular kitchen countertop materials can be tricky business. Opinions vary. Without solid sales numbers, it is really hard to figure out whose opinion is right. Still, doing the research can be a ton of fun. We do it to stay abreast of what people are saying.
That leads us to a U.S. News & World Report post published late last year, a post that included a list of the eight most popular kitchen countertop materials. The materials are listed below in descending order. As you read, remember that Bedrock Quartz specializes in three of the materials on the list. We invite you to take a look at all our countertop options by visiting any of our Utah showrooms.
8. Concrete Countertops
Concrete has been a popular kitchen countertop material in the American Southwest for quite some time. It holds up well to hot, dry conditions and is not subject to pest damage. It is also long lasting and durable. However, concrete is more susceptible to stains, cracks, and chips. And while fairly easy to install, concrete countertops can take 1-3 months to fully cure. You need to be incredibly careful with them in the interim.
7. Stainless Steel Countertops
There was a point not too long ago at which stainless steel was the hottest material for residential kitchens. Today, not so much. Yet stainless steel countertops are still a pretty popular option for people who like an industrial aesthetic. It is virtually indestructible in the kitchen. It is also heat resistant, stain resistant, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial. What more could you want from a kitchen countertop?
6. Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone is a nonporous material made from steatite. It is a risky choice for kitchen countertops because it is extremely prone to scratches. Even with proper care, a soapstone countertop is likely to begin showing scratches eventually. On the upside, it doesn’t crack all that easily. Soapstone’s big appeal in the kitchen is its tendency to develop a natural patina over time.
5. Butcher Block Countertops
Among homeowners who still prefer the look of wood, butcher block countertops are pretty popular. A butcher block counter is almost always made from a hard wood. Think maple, walnut, etc. Butcher block countertops are resilient and eco-friendly. However, they do require a bit more cleaning along with regular sealing.
4. Marble Countertops
As you probably know, marble is a natural stone and a good choice for luxury homes. It is a popular countertop choice in high-end residential properties. One of its big appeals is uniqueness. No two marble slabs are exactly identical.
3. Granite Countertops
Although granite’s popularity has waned somewhat over the last 5-7 years, it still takes the third spot on the top eight list. Granite is aesthetically pleasing along with being durable and loan maintenance. The tricky thing with granite is finding a slab that meets your current decorating style.
2. Quartzite Countertops
Quartzite is a natural stone material that, while strong, needs to be sealed at least annually to prevent staining and chipping. The good news is that it doesn’t requires as much maintenance as marble and granite. Nevertheless, you also don’t get as much variation in slabs.
1. Quartz Countertops
The kitchen countertop material taking the number one slot is quartz. Quartz countertops are beautiful, resilient, strong, and low maintenance. Because quartz countertops are engineered, they are also highly customizable. Everybody seems to want quarts right now.
Here at Bedrock Quartz, we specialize in quartz, marble, and granite countertops. We would be happy to review all our products with you in search of the perfect countertop style and material for your kitchen.
