How to choose kitchen countertops: advantages, disadvantages and design examples

One of the most practical and functional environments of any residential project is the kitchen. Its auxiliary surfaces – countertops, decking or coatings – contain the main equipment of this space. Therefore, it is essential that it be constructed with the most resistant and hygienic material. In addition to these requirements, it is important to pay attention to aesthetics and profitability, adapting to the dynamics of each family.

In the following article, we have gathered some of the most used materials today, including the advantages and disadvantages of each of them.

Granite

It is a natural stone with unique colors and prints. Very heat resistant, it is the most used option in kitchens and bathrooms.
Advantages
Long durability. Easy cleaning and maintenance. Excellent cost-benefit ratio. Impact resistence.

Disadvantages
It does not resist acid products or foods.

Marble

Perhaps this is the most sophisticated option due to its imposing and elegant appearance. It is a natural limestone, therefore, each grain of its composition is unique.
Advantages
High aesthetic value and heat resistance. It is a homogeneous material and easy to clean.

Disadvantages
High cost. Because it is very porous, it must be sealed with antimicrobial staining and antibacterial resin. Low impact resistance.

Artificial stones

They are usually made of crushed natural minerals, such as quartz or marble, mixed with a specific resin. To guarantee its quality it is necessary to work with suppliers or serious companies.
Advantages
Being industrialized, it is a standardized material with a homogeneous appearance. It is not porous, does not stain and can be easily maintained and cleaned. It presents a wide range of colors and finishes.

Disadvantages
High cost compared to more conventional options. Low resistance to heat and abrasion.

Porcelain

Porcelain countertops are a trend that has come to stay. They are quite resistant and among their main advantages are their durability and impermeability.
It is, without a doubt, one of the materials that offers more finishing options, since it is made of the same coating that is specified for floors and walls, allowing projects with unique combinations. In addition, it is the only option that can resemble other materials such as marble, wood or concrete, among others.
Advantages
In addition to its large number of finishing options, it absorbs little water and has a high resistance to physical or chemical abrasion. It is easy to clean.

Disadvantages
It is necessary to work with a specialized company to guarantee its impact resistance. It is necessary to execute it with a reinforced structure.

Stainless steel

It is one of the options that ensure greater asepsis to be waterproof. With excellent resistance to heat and bacteria, it is the favorite of industrial kitchens, and would be much more used in residential kitchens if it did not include a high production cost.
Advantages
Very hygienic, practical and durable.

Disadvantages
It is a material that scratches quite easily, in addition to the high cost mentioned above.

Advantages
It is versatile in its appearance and very economical to produce, only with cement, sand and water.

Disadvantages
The application of specific products is required to prevent infiltration. It is very porous and little resistant to stains. It is not hygienic and the incorporation of stone or glass tables for food handling is recommended.

Advantages
Practical installation.

Disadvantages
Low resistance to heat and impact of sharp objects. It requires high protection and maintenance for effective contact with water.

Glass

When they are made of tempered glass they are quite safe. They can be treated with anti-stains and also antibacterial solutions. You can choose transparent, translucent, textured, or colored glass.
Advantages
Stain resistance. Ease of cleaning and maintenance. Combines with virtually all finishes.

Disadvantage
High cost of manufacturing and installation.

Soapstone or ‘ Soap Stone’

It is a natural stone – also called soap stone -, commonly used in clinics and laboratories because it is very resistant to acid products.
Advantages
It is one of the most durable options.

Disadvantages
Supports heat with less resistance than other natural stones, such as granite, for example. It requires constant maintenance, with lubrication and polishing.