Renovating a kitchen can be one of the most rewarding home improvement projects. When so much time is spent preparing and serving food, the kitchen is known as the heart of the home for a reason. Choosing a new countertop can be a daunting task. Here are some of the top materials used for kitchen counters. All of them have pros and cons, which means you need to explore the options and match them to your lifestyle.

Soapstone

Soapstone is a natural stone option for custom countertops Butler PA. It comes in a dark gray finish and is used often in historic homes. It is stain-resistant and can handle heat. Any damage can be sanded out. This stone must be treated with mineral oil and can darken over time.

Granite

Granite offers a myriad of color and style choices, which has made it one of the most popular counter materials on the market. It’s almost impervious to heat and is extremely strong. The maintenance is low when it’s sealed properly. This stone can be expensive and DIY installation isn’t possible.

Marble

Marble is a unique and luxurious option that features grey veining in a variety of patterns. It is waterproof and heatproof and adds value to your home. This expensive material can scratch and stain easily without proper care.

Laminates

Laminate materials are plastic-coated synthetic materials. They come in a variety of styles and colors, which makes it easy to match the aesthetics of your home. This inexpensive option can be installed on your own and is easy to maintain. The seams are always visible and laminate is seen as ordinary on the market.

You need to know how much maintenance you can handle, the style you desire and the cost of materials to decide which counter material you want in your home.