The average kitchen remodel can increase the value of your home by approximately $20,000.
If you’re redoing your kitchen, this is something to keep in mind. Choosing every item in your kitchen, especially countertops, is something you need to put some time into.
Lucky for you, we’ve compiled a list of the top modern kitchen countertops for your project.
Read on to get started.
1. Granite
Granite is one of the most popular materials when it comes to kitchen counters. Having a granite countertop can give even the most modest of kitchens a touch of luxury.
Although granite has always been considered an expensive material, the cost has gone down in recent years due to a supply increase. That being said, granite is not the most affordable material.
Many homeowners prefer granite because it’s durable, heat resistant, low-maintenance, and adds value to the home. If you fail to seal the granite you can expect it to stain.
2. Solid-Surface Material
If you’re looking for a mid-range countertop, solid-surface material is a great alternative. To make this material, acrylic particles and resin are pressed into slabs and other shapes.
Although this material can get damaged by heat, it’s stain-resistant. If the surface does get damaged, it’s quite simple to sand out the damage.
Although it’s not the most expensive material, it does require professional installation.
3. Quartz
Unlike other natural stones, quartz is an engineered material that binds together quartz pieces and other minerals using resins. Quartz countertops are a great alternative for those looking for something other than granite or marble.
Some believe quartz outperforms other stones because it’s available in a wider range of colors. Not to mention, it resists stains and scratches.
Although they’re very heavy and expensive, DIY installation is possible.
4. Laminates
If you’re looking for an inexpensive kitchen countertop you can install yourself, laminate could be the material you’re looking for. To make laminates, manufacturers take synthetics and coat them in plastic creating a smooth surface.
Because of their affordability and easy installation, they often don’t get the prestige of other countertop materials. The downsides to laminates are that they scratch easily and the seams are impossible to hide.
5. Marble
No two slabs of marble are alike. If you’re looking for a unique and luxurious kitchen countertop, marble is the way to go.
Because they are quite expensive and require professional installation, marble countertops are not very common.
Oftentimes, many homeowners limit their marble countertops to only the island.
Marble is heatproof and waterproof, but it will stain a lot easier than other stones. If you plan on investing in marble, make sure you seal it.
Keep the cutting boards elsewhere because marble will scratch.
6. Soapstone
If you’re looking for a natural stone for your countertops, soapstone is another popular material. Unlike granite that comes in many different colors, soapstone mostly comes in a dark gray. This dark gray silky stone looks great in antique kitchens, although modern kitchens can also pop with soapstone.
Unlike other stones, soapstone will not dull out over time. In fact, you can expect a nice patina-like finish over time.
Soapstone is great for countertops because it’s stain-resistant and durable. However, it will scratch if you use it as a cutting surface.
7. Ceramic Tile
If you have a tight budget or want to do it yourself, ceramic tile is a great option for kitchen countertops. This material is easy to clean, heat resistant, and durable. For those who want a more unique pattern or design, ceramic tiles can make this possible.
If you’re thinking about installing ceramic tiles on your countertops, keep in mind they won’t increase the value of the home like marble or granite would. Although ceramic tiles are resistant, they will crack under impact.
8. Butcher Block
If you’re looking for a countertop material other than stone or synthetics, wood countertops have become an excellent choice. Maple and Oak are the most common types of woods for butcher block countertops.
Although not many people picture wood as a suitable countertop material since it can scratch easily, it’s quite durable when you care for it properly. The great thing about wood countertops is that you can sand it down and refinish it whenever you think it’s time.
Keep in mind, because butcher block does stain and gets damaged by water, you might have to sand sooner than you think. It’s essential to take good care of your wood countertops if you want them to last for a long time.
Since this material is also quite expensive, you might want to oil it and seal it.
9. Concrete
One of the most customizable countertop materials is concrete. With concrete, you can achieve any color, design or pattern for your kitchen countertops. People who want a modern and contemporary kitchen love the industrial feel of concrete.
Since it’s not a stone, it’s quite heat resistant and doesn’t scratch easily. However, concrete is porous so you will have to seal it regularly.
Because of the customizable factor and the level of work it requires, concrete countertops are not the cheapest material.
If you hope to increase the value of your home, keep in mind not many buyers will like the industrial look.
10. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel has become a popular countertop material for many contemporary kitchens. Many people prefer stainless steel because it’s resistant to heat, durable, and seamless. It’s also one of the easiest materials to clean and wipe down.
However, you do have to be careful to always use the proper cutting surface because it does scratch easily.
Since they have to be custom made, don’t expect stainless steel countertops to be cheap.
The Best Modern Kitchen Countertop Materials: The Bottom Line
Now that you know what types of modern kitchen countertops are available, it’s time to pick the one that best fits your style and budget.
When it comes to countertops, you can get as luxurious or rustic as you like.
Are you ready to remodel your kitchen? Contact us today to make an appointment.
