---
title: A Countertop Comparison
description: By Katie MacGillivray Whenever we are working on a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project, nine times out of ten we will be asked about the difference in
---

[Custom Home Building & Remodeling Blog - Meadowlark Design+Build - Ann Arbor, MI ](https://www.meadowlarkbuilders.com/blog)

# [A Countertop Comparison](https://www.meadowlarkbuilders.com/blog/countertop-comparison)

 Written by [Meadowlark Design+Build](https://www.meadowlarkbuilders.com/blog/author/meadowlark-builders) | Jul 12, 2017

### By Katie MacGillivray

Whenever we are working on a [kitchen or bathroom remodeling project](https://www.meadowlarkbuilders.com/kitchens-baths), nine times out of ten we will be asked about the difference in countertop materials. It’s a great question! The countertop is a central part of not only the overall aesthetic of the room, but it also can get the most wear and tear, particularly in the kitchen. To help you [decide which countertop is best for your needs](https://kowalskigraniteandquartz.com/how-to-choose-the-right-solid-stone-countertops-for-your-new-kitchen/), we’ve put together a quick list of our most commonly used materials.

**Granite**

*Price: $$-$$$$*

Advantages:

- Very Durable
- Resistant to scratching
- Resistant to heat
- Resistance to staining (if sealed)
- Resistant to water (if sealed)
- Vast array of aesthetic options – unique looks on a per slab basis

Disadvantages:

- Sealing required
- Weight – support required

**Quartz and Other Engineered Stones**

****

*Price:* $$$-$$$$

Advantages:

- Durable
- Resistant to scratching
- Resistant to stains
- Resistant to bacteria
- Resistant to water
- Easy maintenance
- Can be eco-friendly (non-toxic and some patterns have recycled content)
- Wide aesthetic options

Disadvantages:

- Susceptible to heat
- Weight – support required

**Solid Surfacing**

*Price:* $$-$$$

Advantages*:*

- Moderately to very durable
- Resistant to mold and mildew
- Can be eco-friendly (per manufacturer, IAQ and recycled content)
- Offers seamless sink and backsplash option
- Lighter weight than stone materials
- Wide aesthetic options – mimics wood and stone looks

*Disadvantages: *

- Susceptible to scratching
- Susceptible to heat
- Susceptible to staining

**Paper Composite**

Advantages:

- Durable
- Moderately resistant to heat
- Moderately resistant to water
- Eco-friendly (IAQ and recycled content)
- Lighter weight than stone materials

*Disadvantages: *

- Susceptible to scratching
- Susceptible to chemicals
- Limited aesthetic options compared to other materials

Note: Does darken over time *Price:* $$-$$$

**Butcher Block/Wood**

Price: $$

Advantages:

- deal for prep work in the kitchen
- Easy repair and re-staining
- Unique, warm look

Disadvantages:

- Oiling required
- Susceptible to scratching
- Susceptible to burning
- Susceptible to staining
- Susceptible to bacteria
- Susceptible to moisture changes – natural swelling and contracting

**Concrete**

*Price:* $$$$

Advantages:

- Extremely Durable
- Resistant to staining (if sealed regularly)
- Resistant to bacteria (if sealed regularly)
- Versatility for non-traditionally shaped countertops
- Wide aesthetic options – great for a custom color!

Disadvantages:

- Sealing required
- Will settle over time – small, typically non-structural cracks will develop
- Very heavy – extra support needed
- Susceptible to harsh chemicals

**Tile**

*Price:* $-$$$

Advantages:

- Durable
- Resistant to heat
- Resistant to water

Disadvantages:

- Uneven surface
- Grout susceptible to staining
- Susceptible to scratching/chipping

**Soapstone**

*Price:* $$$

*Advantages: *

- Very Durable
- Resistant to stains
- Resistant to chemicals
- Resistant to bacteria
- Resistant to heat
- Easy maintenance (oiling is recommended, however)

*Disadvantages: *

- Susceptible to scratching due to material content (can be sanded out)

**Plastic Laminate** *Advantages: *

- Easy maintenance
- Lightweight
- Can be ecofriendly (per manufacturer – IAQ + certified wood materials)
- Wide aesthetic options – mimics wood and stone looks

*Disadvantages: *

- Limited durability – can peel
- Susceptible to scratching
- Susceptible to burning
- Susceptible to staining
- Susceptible to chemicals

*Price*: $

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