How do you choose the right kitchen and bathroom countertops that stand up to the test of time?

The current housing market and economy are somewhat unpredictable however homeowners want and should still be investing in their homes. Why? Because it will not only help increase the value but could also make your home healthier and more durable, and it will make you happy.  Every home needs a refresh, so why not invest in a remodelled kitchen or bathroom? One of the most significant parts of a kitchen or bathroom remodel is the countertops. But how do you choose the best bathroom and kitchen countertop materials?

Long gone are the days of Formica countertops. Don’t get me wrong, there are some fantastic Formica countertops available today and are an excellent choice for specific budget points. Let’s face it—there are many countertop materials to choose from, and I can only imagine your head spinning after looking at all the options available. You need to think about style, function, and practicality. 

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular options:

 

Quartz Countertops

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Quartz countertops have become increasingly popular due to their durability and versatility. What is quartz? It is an engineered stone made of natural quartz crystals with resin binders, making it resistant to scratches, stains, heat, and even bacteria.

The best part is that quartz countertops resemble the look of actual stone, such as marble and granite, and come in a variety of colours and patterns. They are a popular option for contemporary homes since they need little upkeep and are ideal for kitchens and baths. They are also generally less expensive than granite.

We use quartz in almost all of our home renovations. I’ve even used it in my own home when I renovated the main floor and kitchen.

 

 

Considering the price point and fabrication options it’s the best choice. However, quartz can get damaged from exposure to excess heat, so extra care is required when used in a kitchen.

Edging can be tricky too as it can chip, so eased edges are typically recommended.

 

 

 

Porcelain Countertops

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Porcelain countertops are a newer addition to the market and are gaining traction due to their durability, versatility, and aesthetics. I love using porcelain for countertops but a word of warning – it is expensive – almost 3 times the cost of quartz. Porcelain comes in a variety of colors and patterns, including options that mimic natural stone and wood.

Porcelain countertops are heat-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to maintain, making them an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms. The price point is mid to high but fabrication is very expensive and labour-intensive – we found out about this the hard way on one of our jobs!

 

 

Porcelain countertops are a great choice for your bathroom, kitchen or any space in your home. I also used porcelain countertops throughout my entire kitchen renovation. We are so happy with the results. It’s a great option, especially if you are in your forever home, which I am  – I love my house.

 

Granite Countertops

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Granite is a tough natural stone that can withstand heat and scratches when properly sealed making it an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms. It is renowned for its strength and distinctive patterns. 

Finding one that matches the design of your home is simple because granite comes in a wide range of natural colours and patterns. Although it needs to be periodically sealed, the cost is well worth it for its enduring beauty.

 

 

Pro Tip: Kitchen countertops should be installed before you tile the backsplash and after you have installed the cabinets. Ensure all your appliances have been received and measured to ensure your measurements are accurate.

 

Wood Countertop

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My son Michael is a carpenter who loves making furniture, including live–edge wood countertops. He made a beautiful vanity countertop for homeowners Wayne and Brittany in Holmes Family Rescue, Season 1, for their basement shower room. This live-edge black walnut countertop offered a unique element to a space, and a rub-on oil was used to protect the natural wood from moisture. He also made a live-edge and resin kitchen table top in an earlier season of Holmes + Holmes.

 

 

Wood countertops can be made from a variety of different woods and Michael suggests hardwoods, like maple, cherry or walnut, but it all depends on personal preference.

 

Check out this vanity made with Mappa Burl from Holmes on Holmes Season 2.

 

 

Personally, I don’t like using butcher block countertops or wooden countertops because of durability, like stains, scratches and germs – especially in a kitchen setting. However, like with most wooden furniture, spills and water should be wiped away immediately. Depending on the finish, the countertop will have a range of durability. The protective finish should be reapplied every 2-5 years or when showing signs of wear and tear.

 

Marble Countertops

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Marble countertops offer elegance and sophistication to any kitchen or bathroom. Marble’s distinctive veining and natural variations make each piece unique.  However, marble is softer than granite and quartz, making it more susceptible to scratching and staining. It also requires frequent sealing.

Marble is one of the more expensive materials, and when left untreated and exposed to the elements will darken over time.

 

 

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Laminate Countertops

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As mentioned before, laminate has come a long way and is a cost-effective and reasonably durable choice for budget-minded renovations, perhaps for an income property for example. It is easy to clean but can be prone to scratches and heat damage. However, the colour choices and styles are unlimited, and it even mimics stone or wood.

 

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Stainless Steel Countertops

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Stainless steel countertops are an excellent choice for modern kitchens because they offer a contemporary and industrial look. They are extremely durable, resistant to heat and stains, and easy to clean. However, they can scratch and the institutional appearance may not suit everyone’s style.

 

What does Countertop Fabrication Mean?

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Countertop fabricators are the pros who specialize in cutting, shaping, and installing stone slabs like quartz to fit your space perfectly. It’s not just about making it look good—it’s about precision and durability. The process starts with creating a detailed template and measuring the dimensions to figure out exactly how much material the project needs.

Once the template is ready, the fabricators get to work crafting the countertops. Depending on the material chosen and the complexity of the design, this process usually takes one to three weeks. It’s a critical step to ensure the final result not only looks amazing but also stands the test of time.

 

 

Choosing the best kitchen and bathroom countertop material for today’s homes depends on your style, budget, and maintenance preferences. Each material offers its unique blend of style and practicality. Whether you opt for the elegance of marble or the durability of quartz or porcelain, there’s a countertop material to suit every home.

In addition to picking the right material for your needs, you must find an experienced and skilled installer. You can have a beautiful piece of stone, but if the installers are inexperienced, it could spell disaster. So, do your homework and pick the right material and installer. 

 

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