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Choosing the Perfect Kitchen Countertops: Answering Your Top Questions

  • 6 min read

In This Article

Planning a kitchen remodel? Kitchen countertops are one of the most significant decisions you’ll make. Here, we’ll address three of the most common questions about kitchen countertops: durability, cost, and maintenance. Whether you’re considering granite countertops, quartz countertops, marble countertops, or quartzite countertops, this guide has you covered.

quartzite countertop in a modern kitchen

What is the Most Durable kitchen
Countertop Material?

Durability is key for a kitchen countertop that handles daily wear and tear. Let’s compare some popular options:

Quartz Countertops

  • Engineered for strength and resistance to scratches, chips, and stains.
  • Non-porous surface eliminates the need for sealing, making it a top choice for busy families.
  • Heat-resistant but using trivets is still recommended.

marble countertops

  • Loved for their timeless elegance but softer and more prone to scratches and etching.
  • Requires more maintenance and isn’t ideal for heavy use without sealing.

quartzite countertops

  • As durable as granite but with the elegant marble-like look, making it an attractive middle ground.
  • Heat-resistant and tougher than marble but requires occasional sealing.
  • Some quartzite slabs can also trap moisture

granite countertops

  • Extremely durable and heat-resistant, but sealing is necessary to prevent staining.

Conclusion: If you prioritize durability and low maintenance, quartz countertops are hard to beat. For natural stone lovers, quartzite is an excellent choice for combining strength and beauty.

Kitchen countertop cost graphic

How Much Do Kitchen Countertops Cost?

Budgeting is crucial when deciding on kitchen countertops. Here’s what you can expect:

quartz countertops

  • Price range: $50–$150 per square foot.
  • Offers great value for its durability and stylish appearance.

marble countertops

  • Price range: $60–$200 per square foot.
  • While luxurious, it can be one of the more expensive options.

Quartzite Countertops

  • Price range: $70–$200 per square foot.
  • Comparable to marble in price but offers greater durability.

granite countertops

  • Price range: $40–$130 per square foot.
  • Affordable options are available, but unique or rare stones can be pricey.

Additional Costs to Consider:

  • Installation: Professional installation is essential for heavier materials.
  • Edging and Finishes: Custom designs can increase the price.
  • Maintenance: Sealing costs for materials like granite, marble, and quartzite.

budgeting tips:

  • Consider remnants for smaller projects.
  • Shop around to compare quotes from multiple fabricators.

Conclusion: Quartz countertops offer excellent value for mid-range budgets, while quartzite and marble are more suitable for high-end designs.

marble-countertop-care-and-cleaning-1901060-01-160e1bc56fbd4e07bfc10420f26a953d

How Do I Maintain and Clean My Kitchen Countertops?

Proper care is essential to extend the life of your countertops. Each material has specific cleaning and maintenance requirements:

Quartz Countertops

  • Clean daily with mild soap and water or a non-abrasive cleaner.
  • Avoid abrasive scrubbers and harsh chemicals that could damage the resin.
  • No sealing required, making maintenance minimal.

Marble Countertops

  • Wipe spills immediately to prevent staining.
  • Use a pH-neutral cleaner and avoid acidic substances like vinegar or lemon juice.
  • Seal regularly to protect the porous surface.

Quartzite Countertops

  • Seal once a year to maintain stain resistance.
  • Clean with a damp cloth and non-abrasive cleaner.
  • Use trivets to avoid extreme temperature changes.

Granite Countertops

  • Clean with warm water and a gentle dish soap.
  • Seal every 1–2 years, depending on usage.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals that can break down the sealant.

pro tips:

  • Use cutting boards to avoid scratches.
  • Wipe up spills immediately, especially on porous surfaces like marble and quartzite.
  • Consult your fabricator for specific care instructions tailored to your countertop material.

Conclusion: If you’re looking for a low low maintenance kitchen countertop, here’s your options. Quartz countertops are the easiest to maintain, while granite and quartzite require more attention to keep them looking pristine. Marble is the most high maintenance out of the four stones. 

quartz white kitchen with waterfall edge

What kitchen Countertop Materials Are Heat and Stain-Resistant?

If you’re worried about placing hot pots on your counters or dealing with stubborn spills, these materials stand out:

Granite Countertops

  • Naturally heat- and stain-resistant, granite is a reliable choice for cooking enthusiasts.
  • Regular sealing keeps it in top shape.

Quartzite Countertops

  • Exceptional heat resistance makes quartzite perfect for withstanding high temperatures.
  • Seal the surface to protect against stains.

Quartzite Countertops

While highly stain-resistant due to their non-porous nature, they’re less tolerant of direct heat. Always use trivets or heat pads.

marble countertops

Heat-resistant to an extent but more susceptible to staining from acidic substances. Regular maintenance is required.

Final Thoughts

Your kitchen countertops set the tone for your space, so choosing the right material matters. Quartz countertops excel in durability and ease of care. Marble countertops are a stunning but higher-maintenance option, while quartzite offers the beauty of marble with added strength.

Still unsure? Visit a local showroom to see and feel the materials in person. Comparing quartz countertops, marble countertops, and quartzite side by side can help you make the best choice for your kitchen.

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Stone Surface Inc. is proud to be the premier choice for kitchen countertops in Overland Park, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Shawnee, and the entire Kansas City metro area, .

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