Types of Countertops—Everything You Need to Know

Replacing the countertops in your Mississauga home? Finding the best kitchen countertops for your next renovation takes more effort than simply picking a color and whipping out your wallet. Your new countertop will need to withstand dinner parties, baking experiments, lunchbox rituals, and more. 

This guide, brought to you by Kitchen Land, will help take you through the basics of everything you need to know before investing in new kitchen cabinets.

Kitchen Countertop Considerations for Homeowners

Functionality and Layout is Paramount. The first question to ask when installing countertops is, "Will this provide the functionality I need in my kitchen?" Just because it looks like a "winner" doesn’t mean it will be practical for your actual needs. For some kitchens, the countertop is simply a holding space for small appliances, cooking materials, or hot dinners. Others need durability to withstand ingredient spills or wear and tear from young children.

According to HGTV, planning for the layout, form, function, and daily use of your kitchen is a key step that will help you get the most out of your investment and ensure that your newly renovated kitchen is one you’ll love to spend time in for years to come.

Eased Edge Countertops

Eased-edge countertops are a fantastic feature for any kitchen. "Eased edge" simply means the corners of the countertop are rounded, rather than sharp. It still provides the clean, crisp lines of a flat edge—it simply softens them for longer durability and easier cleaning.

Many types of stone are prone to chips and cracks when cut at a sharp edge. However, eased-edge countertops tend to withstand wear and tear with fewer chips and cracks than traditional sharp-corner countertops. Eased-edge countertops are also easier to clean: simply wipe away spills and drips. 

Types of Countertop Material 

Different countertop materials have different benefits, disadvantages, and maintenance requirements. Try to learn about each type before deciding on the material for your countertop. 

Quartz

Quartz offers a quality appearance without much maintenance. For everyday care, all you’ll need is a soft cloth and some dish soap. Simply wipe down your countertop at the end of the day to remove spills and crumbs. With quartz, you won’t need to worry too much about stains. Clean up liquids as soon as they’re spilled—that’s it. Grease and dried-on stains may take a little more work, but with a specialized quartz-friendly deep-cleaning solution and a sponge, you shouldn’t have too many problems.

Quartz is also one of the hardest stones used for countertops. For this reason, it’s recommended for homes with young children.

Granite

Granite, while not as durable as quartz, is still highly resistant to scratches and stains. Instead of cleaning it with dish soap, you’ll need to wipe it off with a granite cleaner on a daily basis. Cleaning daily will remove spilled food and small crumbs that could damage your countertop over time. 

Granite must be sealed every year (or every six months, if you cook frequently). This process is simple—it only takes a few minutes, and it can help keep your granite looking spotless.

Types of Granite Countertop Colors:

• White
• Black
• Grey
• Green
• Pearl
• Gold
• And more

Marble

Marble is one of the most elegant countertop materials. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most delicate. Marble stains and chips easily; as a result, it’s best to use this stone in lightly trafficked areas and in homes without children. With frequent resealing and careful cleaning, marble adds a luxurious touch unmatched by any other stone.

Laminate

If you’re interested in a stone-like appearance without the heavy maintenance required for stone countertops, try laminate. Laminate countertops are created using synthetic overlays. They’re easy to clean, require no special cleaners or sealants, and don’t stain or chip easily. Laminate is available in many colors, patterns, and designs to mimic any type of stone.

Designer Tips

Consider your home’s overall atmosphere and design. A good-quality countertop will last decades. When looking at colors and designs, select options that complement other long-lasting features in your home (flooring, cabinetry, etc.). 

Think about light

If your kitchen doesn’t have much natural light, a white or light-colored countertop will brighten your space.

Bring home samples

Don’t settle for store displays. Take home samples of each countertop material. Then, compare their appearance at different times of the day and in different areas of your kitchen. Colors can change shades depending on light and surrounding colors. It’s important to see potential countertop choices in your home before committing to one.

Final Thoughts

Your countertop will become part of your daily life. Find a stone that fits your aesthetic—but also stands up to your daily needs. With the right material, you can enjoy a stunning kitchen for years to come.