Every kitchen needs to have great surfaces on which to cook, set groceries, and other things. Unlike other rooms, most of the time spent in the kitchen is spent standing, so you generally need something taller than a table. That is why we have kitchen counters. While you might think every counter is the same, in reality there are a huge variety of counters that may or may not be good for you and your kitchen. Every different substance and style will be good for some and bad for others. You might have some idea of what you like, but comprehensive review of countertops is in order to be sure you don’t make a mistake.

There are a few general classes that counters can be grouped into. This divide has mainly to do with price, but also with style. On the bottom of the list, according to both factors, is a substance that has been in use from the fifties until today: Formica. It has endured because it is so cheap and functional. It can be cleaned easily, doesn’t stain, and hardly costs a thing. It can even be installed right on top of existing counters. While it always has that plastic look and texture, it comes in virtually any color and several different shapes.

Stone Countertops Beat the Rest:

If you can afford it, the very best countertops you can buy are ones made of stone. These are usually granite, but sometimes marble or other rocks. They are considerably more sturdy and resilient than Formica. Each counter will have its own natural color and irregularities. There are lots of different colors of stone, but not nearly as many as Formica. Another thing to consider is that stone is always natural and can’t be easily matched to existing furniture or walls. Aside from color, you can also customize the edging of the counter to have a smooth, round, pointy, or rough edge.

In between the cheapness of Formica and the opulence of stone is tile counters. Tiles allow for the most customization, as you can combine colors and create your own patterns. They have more strength then Formica, usually, but not as much as stone, because they are made of ceramic. They are difficult to put in simply because of the amount of time it consumes. The cleaning of tile is a bit more effort than the other two because dirt can become trapped in the cracks. To minimize this problem, a top-coat can be put on top of the tiles. Within the tile category, there is huge variety.

Additional Counter Choices:

Plastic Counters – Like Formica, but made out of other materials, these counters are cheap and come in tons of styles. The problem is that they are easily burned, scratched, cracked, frozen, sliced and melted. Once any of this has happened, they generally need to be replaced.

Ceramic Counters – These use lots of small ceramic tiles to coat the surface of the counters and grout to hold the tiles together. They are pretty strong, but can require a lot of cleaning and can sometimes chip. The coolest part is all the colors and designs that can be achieved by alternating the tiles and making them into shapes and pictures. The heat and moisture should never be a problem. If you apply a coating to the tiles and grout, cleaning can be made easier. The always cost a bunch to have them put in, or take a lot of time to do yourself.

Metal Counters – While they are impervious to any other kind of damage, these types of counters can be dented, especially when they are being put in. They give the kitchen a antiseptic, almost medical, look that you either love or hate. For some reason, serious chefs seem to love this type of counter.

Wooden Counters – Some people absolutely insist on the bright and homey feel that wooden kitchen counter give. Any surface can be used as a cutting board and fixed with sandpaper. These take a ton of maintenance, including constantly oiling them for an even finish, and are highly susceptible to water.

Now that you are familiar with the different counter options, go out and see what it is you like and what you can afford. Be sure to analyze your habits and determine which counter you will be able to maintain long into the future.

Speak with Your Countertop Contractor to find a style, look and price range that you will fit your budget and lifestyle.