Top 6 Countertops for Lasting Durability

 

Kitchens are the heart of the household. Families, children, and guests congregate in the kitchen to cook, eat, chat, and have a lovely time. Due to that, kitchens receive a lot of abuse, especially countertops. That is why it is vital to invest in a durable countertop that will last for many years. Here are our recommendations for the top six countertops for lasting durability.

 

Granite

Granite is highly durable. As it is made up of interlocking crystals, granite is scratch resistant and heat resistant. Setting a hot pan down and cutting food on granite countertops won’t hurt the granite (although it will hurt your knives). This material is classy, widely used, and perfect for long-term use. While the price tag may be a bit steeper, it is worth the investment. 

 

Quartz

Quartz is a favorite among real estate agents and investors. Quartz countertops are harder than granite and virtually indestructible. They are not porous, like granite is, which helps to keep your countertops from accumulating bacteria. However, Quartz can be damaged by heat, so you can’t rest hot pans down on the countertops. 

 

Concrete

Concrete is a favorite among homeowners due to its variety of options. Unlimited colors, sizes, and shapes make it perfect for those with a creative flair. You can also embed other materials, like shells, within the concrete for a unique look! Concrete is also highly durable. It is resistant to scratches and chipping, mainly when regular protective coatings are applied. 

 

Slate

Slate is a more affordable, durable countertop material than most. While there isn’t quite the range of colors as see in the above materials, it is still quite durable. It is unlikely to scratch, unaffected by heat, and non-porous; you won’t have to worry about staining with this countertop. However, the corners on slate can be brittle and sharp; therefore, it is recommended to have those rounded off. 

 

Corian

Corian is a synthetic material developed by Dupont that is well-known for its nearly seamless joints. It comes in a variety of colors that are stain and sunlight resistant, meaning that they do not fade or change over time. While Corian is durable, it is susceptible to heat and sharp object damage. 

 

Stainless Steel

Often you will see stainless steel in restaurants and hospitals, but it is making its way into the home design sphere as well. It is non-porous, so it will never stain! Besides, heat isn’t a problem. While the countertops transfer heat, it doesn’t spread too far; thus, you don’t have to worry about setting your pan down. However, it is wise to take into consideration that stainless steel can dent, be scratched, is noisy, and can look out of place if designed poorly. However, the more it gets scratched up, the better it looks! 

 

Whether you have rowdy kids or are preparing for a long-term rental, investing in durable countertops will save you time, money, and hassle down the road. Consult with an expert installer once you determine the durability traits and the overall appearance you desire, it will be easy to narrow down material choices and get you on the path to obtaining an amazing and long-lasting durable countertop.