Pure red Kitchen Countertop Materials

The countertop material known as "quartz" is actually an engineered stone product that contains as much as 93 percent quartz particles and other minerals, shaped into slabs and bound with resins. These are not solid quartz slabs produced by quarrying.

Sold by companies such as DuPont Zodiaq, LG Viatera, Cambria, and Silestone, quartz was created as a more adaptable and better-performing alternative to granite and marble. It is available in a larger range of colors than granite and has a nonporous surface that resists both scratching and staining. Some types are convincing copies of natural marble, with similar veining. Unlike natural stone, engineered quartz requires no annual sealing.

Similar technology is now being used in so-called glass countertops, which consist of particles of recycled glass blended with resins and shaped into countertop slabs. Consumers keen on being on the cutting edge may want to consider glass as well as quartz countertops.

Pros
DIY installation possible

Easy to maintain, no sealing required

Slabs are uniform, with no imperfections

Can be custom-fabricated in any size and shape

Resists stains and is impervious to heat and acid

More convincing, natural appearance than solid surface material

Cons
Expensive

Countertops are very heavy

Another natural stone commonly used in kitchen countertops is marble. Because no two sheets of marble are exactly the same, each marble countertop will be entirely unique.

Because of its extremely high price tag, marble is not often seen on the entire expanse of countertops of most kitchens. More often, its luxurious look is limited to use on an island or section of countertop reserved as a baking center.

Although highly prized, marble may not be the best choice for kitchens due to its penchant for staining and scratching. Newer sealers can reduce the upkeep on marble, but this is a considerably more temperamental stone than granite or soapstone.

Pros
Waterproof and heatproof

Adds to real estate value of a home

Exceptionally beautiful stone, with unique veining

Cons
Expensive

DIY installation not possible

Can be scratched; repairs are difficult

Stone is porous and stains easily unless sealed

Soapstone is another natural stone, usually dark gray in color with a smooth, silky feel. It has seen a recent resurgence as an alternative to granite. Soapstone is often seen in historic homes but is also used in modern homes as both a countertop and sink material. Over time, soapstone takes on an antique-like patina that can be very attractive in certain kitchen styles.

Contrary to expectations, the architectural soapstone used for countertops is actually quite hard and resistant to stain. However, it will scratch over time, although this can add to the antique patina of the stone.

Pros
Deep, rich color

Somewhat stain resistant

Fairly impervious to heat

Damage can be sanded out

Offers antique, historic look to a kitchen

Cons
May darken over time

DIY installation not possible

Must be treated with mineral oil

Surface can scratch and dent, though this can create an attractive antique look

Specification