A kitchen is the heart of the home. That’s not just metaphorical. People spend a significant amount of time in their kitchen. If you’re someone who cooks frequently at home or frequently entertains, you need to know that your kitchen — and its counters — are going to be as durable as possible. Luckily, durability often comes hand-in-hand with attractiveness when it comes to kitchen counters. Let’s take a look at some of the most durable types of countertop material.
1. Granite
Granite is, of course, the most popular natural stone counter. Granite has remained “trendy” for decades, and there are good reasons for it. It’s functional as well as attractive. Both natural granite and engineered granite are heat resistant and scratch resistant. They require very little by way of maintenance, though they should be occasionally sealed so they can resist staining.
Granite countertops come in many colors and patterns. They’re known for their luminescent beauty and the way that they glitter frequently in the light. There are also sealants that can be poured on granite that will last “forever,” so you don’t need to worry about the sealing. Natural granite will generally improve property values more than engineered granite, but both look extremely similar.
2. Quartz
If this is just about durability, quartz countertops are the clear winner. Quartz countertops are crushed quartz suspended in resin, so they aren’t as porous as quarried stone such as granite. Quartz is extremely resistant to damage and, when installed with rounded edges (to avoid chips and nicks), can be the most durable material. Quartz is used frequently in commercial applications.
Another advantage to quartz is its wide array of appearances, due to it being a partly manufactured product. But many people do prefer natural, quarried stone.
3. Marble
Marble is a durable countertop material, but it isn’t the most durable counter. Marble is very similar to granite in many aspects but distinct in a few. First, it’s a softer and more porous stone. It’s easier to stain, and it’s easier to chip. But that doesn’t mean that it’s easy to damage, just easier. You will need to be more careful about your marble.
But the trade-off is that marble countertops tend to be even more luminous and “glowing” than granite countertops. Those who adore the look of marble will find very few other materials that come close, at least naturally.
4. Corian
A synthetic counter that mimics natural stone, Corian is a durable way to get a granite-like or quartz-like counter. It comes in a variety of styles and colors, and many people adore the depth and glow that it has. Because it’s not natural stone, it may not improve the value of a house the way that a natural granite or marble counter would. And because it’s manufactured, it may also not have the uniqueness or depth of a naturally made stone.
At the same time, Corian is being used in many new installations, along with other synthetic stones, due to both its durability and its ease of maintenance. Corian, unlike granite, can be more easily repaired and replaced because the stones are specific blends. Natural stone, on the other hand, may not be replaceable if that type of granite or marble cannot be found.
5. Glass
Many are now turning to glass counters, especially those who don’t want to deal with maintenance and staining. Glass counters, usually made from recycled glass, can be made from glass of any color. Glass, of course, is very hard to nick. With protected edges, it can also be hard to chip. The major concern with glass is cracking, which can be avoided through the use of the right supports.
Glass can feel unexciting aesthetically and may not improve property values or follow trends, but it’s a good choice for those who are primarily concerned about cleanliness and durability.
Those are the most durable types, but often the decision on counters is three-fold: durability, attractiveness, and price. The best thing you can do for your future kitchen or bathroom is take a look at your options and decide from there. Contact us today at Wholesale Granite Direct for more information. We have locations in Granbury, Richardson, and Arlington, and we install natural stone countertops throughout DFW.
