The choice of the best material for kitchen countertops can be very complex and expensive. Before you put out a lot of money, weigh all the pros and cons of various materials, of which today are made countertops for the kitchen, and then your choice will be ideal for your home.

We offer the comparison of the 13 most common types of countertops:

1. Quartz countertops for the kitchen

Practically not requiring care, engineering quartz countertops differ in increased resistance to heat, acid, scratches, shocks and stains. Due to their non-porous surface, they absolutely do not need polishing, as, for example, tabletops made of natural stone. Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, quartz countertops share the 1st place in popularity with other material: granite.

2. Worktops in polished granite

The traditional granite countertops have long been a favorite choice for most homeowners. They give the kitchen a high class, make it seem richer, while providing a solid and reliable surface for cooking.

Since granite is a natural material, the choice of the pattern of this stone is somewhat limited and it is sometimes difficult to combine individual slabs. In most regions the cost of granite and quartz is comparable, but it is important to take into account that natural granite requires a little more care than artificial quartz. To preserve the presentable appearance of granite from it, it is necessary to quickly wipe all stains, especially oil, wine, acids and soda, and periodically polish its surface - usually once a year.

3. Worktops made of laminate

Of course, laminate is the most budget option for the kitchen and at the same time it is becoming more popular thanks to new ways of finishing that can repeat the look of natural stone, wood or even quartz.

A beautiful view and cost savings laminated countertops you will provide, but they do not differ in heat and impact resistance, as well as resistance to sticking dirt, so require careful handling.

4. Wooden countertops for the kitchen

To create a warm and cozy kitchen design in the style of Provence, try choosing wooden countertops. Combining functionality and decorativeness, these surfaces are ideal for cooking food - a well-protected tree is hygienic even for grinding meat. Unlike other budget options, for example, laminate, wood has a high thermal stability, so you do not have to worry about leaving a hot pan or frying pan.

Note that some designers prefer to mix wooden countertops with other materials from natural or artificial stone to provide a variety of working surfaces.

5. Marble worktops

Bright with gray veins marble is the current favorite in the world of interior design. It is not only aesthetic, but also helps to mask wear and light spots. The timeless attractiveness of this stone will give any kitchen a first-class appearance, but although the cost of marble is sometimes comparable to the cost of granite, its surface is porous, and therefore requires regular polishing and special care without any acids.

6. Worktops from polished granite

Unlike popular polished granite, ground granite has a warm matte surface instead of traditional glossy. Like polished granite, it is resistant to scratches, cuts, cracks and heat, which makes it one of the most reliable options for kitchen countertops.

7. Worktops in stainless steel

Stainless steel gives the kitchen a modern and stylish look. In addition, the mirror surface of the metal fits well with any color and is perfectly cleanable - just wipe the stains with a cloth soaked in a mild soap. But the most attractive characteristic of this material is its ability to inhibit bacterial accumulation, so steel table tops are the most hygienic.

8. Glass countertops for the kitchen

In addition to its smooth, streamlined appearance, glass countertops have many more advantages. Glass can take any form and texture, and the choice of its color is completely unlimited. Although this is a more expensive option, the popularity of glass countertops is now on the rise, thanks to its beautiful modern look. They are also easy to keep clean, and the porosity of the surface gives them high resistance to staining and hygiene. To be absolutely confident in the durability of this countertop, choose a tempered glass with a thickness of at least 2 cm.

9. Warehouse countertops

A great choice for people who care about the ecology of our planet! Such tabletops can contain a variety of materials, including concrete, glass, paper, composite or plastic. They are usually a mixture of different products and are manufactured in a wide range of shades and textures. The photo below shows the table top "IceStone terrazzo", which consists of recycled glass, cement and resins, due to which it has a strong surface with a low need for maintenance.

10. Concrete Countertops

Concrete kitchen countertops are also made in any colors and textures, and their composition can include various additional materials, such as glass, tiles or marble. In addition to its pleasant appearance, concrete countertops are also a very economical choice and help to keep the heat in the house, thanks to its heating surface.

11. Soapstone tops

Very resistant to bacteria and stains, soapstone, it also has the soapstone, has no pores and is available in a wide range of gray tones with thin veins. Unlike other natural stones, soapstone does not require annual polishing to seal the pores, and regular treatment with mineral oils will help mask any scratches, add shine and deepen the color of the stone over time.

12. Travertine worktops

Travertine has a very beautiful appearance, but if you do not seal its pores, it can accumulate dirt, bacteria and absorb fluids. Despite its need for thorough care, travertine countertops are some of the most aesthetically appealing, and bring a warm, friendly atmosphere to any kitchen design.

13. Tiles in the role of kitchen countertops

Tiles in the role of countertops will be an excellent choice for you if you are looking for an inexpensive material that is easy to keep clean. In addition, the tile is very easy to choose for any style of kitchen design, so most often it appears in interior projects, made by themselves.