Many homeowners find joy in selecting a kitchen countertop. With so many beautiful options to pick from, it’s often easy to find one they like. However, there’s more to consider than just looks. Picking the right countertop depends greatly on other factors, too, including cost, ease of maintenance, and durability. In this article, we’ll talk about different popular kitchen countertop materials. We’ll also discuss why they might be a great or poor option for you, depending on what exactly you’re going for. Understanding the reality of these materials can also help you be prepared for what’s in store. Quartz Quartz countertops are an excellent option for kitchens. They’re dependable when it comes to heavy use, are great at resisting water and moisture, and are considered low maintenance. While not completely protected from accumulating scratches, quartz counters are still quite resistant to such. Like with any material, there are some cons when it comes to quartz. Quartz can become weak or discolored when exposed to too much heat. It can also be expensive, should only be used for indoor kitchens, and doesn’t look as natural as real stone, like marble or granite. Recycled Glass If you want an eco-friendly countertop, recycled glass is your best bet. Recycled glass counters are relatively good when it comes to water resistance and durability. It also offers a unique look, which can give your kitchen some charm. Homeowners also love the low maintenance and the ability to fully customize their recycled glass counter. There are, however, some drawbacks to recycled glass kitchen countertops. They have the potential to scratch or chip, which can be relatively noticeable with this material. This countertop also tends to be costly in material and installation. Soapstone Soapstone counters come with moderate durability. They’re also highly resistant to water, most chemicals, and heat. Other benefits of this countertop material include its smooth and soft texture, aesthetic aging process, and sustainability. It’s also unique in appearance compared to many other countertop materials. While pleasantly durable, soapstone is a softer material than quartz. Since it’s softer, it’s more prone to scratches and marks. It also requires slightly more upkeep than quartz, benefiting from mineral oiling. Still, the maintenance isn’t too intense. Soapstone, however, also comes in limited design variations. Porcelain Slabs For exceptional durability, consider a kitchen countertop with porcelain slabs. Due to its non-porous nature, manufactured porcelain slabs are great when it comes to water resistance. They’re also resistant when it comes to heat, UV rays, and scratches. Due to its overall durability, porcelain slab countertops can be installed indoors or outdoors. What are some risks with a porcelain slab countertop? Porcelain slabs can be difficult to install, which can make installation costly for homeowners. This material is also prone to cracking or chipping, is difficult to repair, and can be very repetitive in available patterns because they’re synthetic. From selecting to installing a kitchen countertop, BLVD Build will be there for you every step of the way. Talk to us today for help with your kitchen remodel.