When you walk into your new kitchen, the countertop is one of the first things you’ll notice. Most builders will let you choose from a few different types of materials, and once you’ve chosen the material, you can usually select a more specific design.

Of course, choosing the right countertops is about more than just the look. You also want countertops that fit your budget and will last for years. Learn more about your options to find the style that’s right for you.

Laminate: Affordable and Versatile

Laminate is usually the go-to material for home buyers looking for something that fits the budget. Most builders have laminate countertops as the standard option, so buyers don’t have to spend extra to get something with the look they want. It’s an engineered material, made from fusing layers of plastic over a particle board core. The best thing about laminate is it can come in a wide variety of colours. You can choose a solid colour to match the rest of the kitchen, or you can choose something a bit more patterned and funky.

Marble: Beautiful but Finicky

Marble is perhaps one of the most beautiful types of countertops you can have, and each piece is carefully constructed to be truly one-of-a-kind. The downside, though, is the material is quite porous and easy to damage. You’ll have to be careful not to drop heavy items on the counter, and clean up any spills immediately. Marble countertops also require regular sealing and cleaning. This style works best for those without children because kids can wreak havoc in the kitchen.

Quartz: Durable and Refined

Quartz is often a happy medium for those who want the look of marble and granite without paying the high cost. In fact, some builders even consider quartz to be the standard option for their homes. Like the other two natural stones, quartz has beautiful designs swirling throughout, and you often have more freedom to request specific colours. It’s also hard and less porous than either granite or marble, so you don’t have to worry quite as much about spills, though you’ll still want to clean them up quickly. The one thing you really have to watch out for is heat. Setting a hot pan down on quartz countertops can burn it, causing a stain you can’t remove. Be sure to always use a hot pad underneath a pan.

Granite: Elegant and Natural

If you like the look of a natural stone but want more durability than marble, granite might be the solution for you. It’s a hard stone, so it’s going to resist the types of chips and scratches you’re likely to see in marble countertops. It is porous, though, so you have to take care that the sealing is working well. Those who want granite countertops are probably going to have to pay for the upgrade. They often cost more than laminate.

Wood: Classic and Convenient

If you love the look of farmhouse kitchens, you might want to consider a wood, “butcher block” style of countertop. This can give your kitchen the old-fashioned feel you desire, and the style is perfect for those who do a lot of baking. If going this route, look for countertops made from extremely hard woods. You’ll also want something sealed so spills don’t seep in and start to warp the wood. After many years, you can even sand down wood countertops and refinish them, so they’ll last for years and years.

Stainless Steel: Sleek and Sanitary

Stainless steel countertops aren’t the most common choice, but they’re popular for those who like modern or retro styles. The material is non-porous, which means you never have to worry about bacteria lurking. With a quick wipe-down, the counters are clean. You can also cut food directly on the surface without having to worry about knives cutting into the counters. On the other hand, some people feel the look of stainless steel countertops is a bit cold and sterile. This could negatively affect your resale value, but that shouldn’t hold you back if you plan to live in your home a long time.

Builders offer a variety of countertops in their homes, and you’re wise to carefully consider your options. With a bit of research, you should be able to find the style that matches your needs.

Make sure your flooring complements your new countertops! See our new home flooring comparisons post for more information.