Counters vary considerably in style, cost, color and durability. The most popular trends for counters in 2019 include having a thicker profile and using a waterfall edge (both shown in the image above). White, black or grey counters are showing the most popularity. Statement island counters that use more colorful stones or poured concrete are also on trend.
Selecting a counter can be a challenge for any homeowner. Especially when, in a lot of cases, you can’t have it all. Let's break down the most common counter choices and their pros and cons:
Granite:
- Pros
- Middle price range
- Wide variety of colors
- Low maintenance
- Cons
- Chips easily
- Not available in a fluid-like look such as marble or quartz
Marble:
- Pros
- Bright whites that are unavailable in other materials
- Elegant and clean
- Cons
- High price range
- High maintenance
- Needs to be sealed
- Stains and scratches easily
Quartz:
- Pros
- Variety of price ranges
- Low maintenance
- Non-porous, does not need to be sealed
- Unlikely to chip
- Wide variety of colors
- Cons
- Affected by heat and acidic foods
Quartzite:
- Pros
- Looks like marble
- More durable than marble
- Low maintenance
- Cons
- High price range
- Affected by heat
- Limited variety of colors
Laminate:
- Pros
- Low price range
- Wide variety of colors
- Low maintenance
- Cons
- Can be affected by sharp objects or chip easily
- Lower end of quality
Of course, there are a plethora of other counter material options such as poured concrete, travertine, stainless steel, recycled glass, butcher's block… the list goes on and on! The most popular choice of counter material this year are quartz and quartzite. One major distinction between these two materials is that quartz is a man-made material whereas quartzite is naturally occurring.
If you want help with your kitchen remodel and feel overwhelmed with making the right decision, reach out to BGI to guide you in your decisions!
