Type & Advantages

Drawbacks

Installation

Plastic Laminate

Available in a large number of colors, patterns, and textures. Very durable and easy to clean. “Color core” laminate is worth the extra expense because it resists minor scratches. “Post form” has curved edges, with an integrated backsplash and slightly curved drip-resistant front edge.

Once damaged—plastic laminate can burn or crack—it is all but impossible to repair. Seams, especially at inside corners, can be hard to keep clean. Flush or undermounted sinks cannot be installed in it.

Post-form countertops require gluing the plastic laminate onto particleboard, a challenge for even an experienced do-it-yourselfer. The backsplash can be sanded or cut to make up for out-of-square walls.

Ceramic Tile

You can let your imagination run wild with the wonderful assortment available. High-quality tile is virtually burn-proof and very difficult to scratch. If a tile cracks, it can be replaced.

Grout between tiles can be difficult to keep clean. Irregular surfaces can cause glasses or china to chip or break more easily if dropped.

Tile must be installed on a solid, water-resistant underlayment—typically, 3/4-inch plywood topped with 1/2-inch cement backerboard. Order 10% more tile than needed for breakage.

Wood

Wood is naturally beautiful, resilient, and easily reparable. Dropped glasses and china have a better than even chance of survival, and chips and scratches in the surface can be sanded and refinished. Maple is the most popular choice, but any hardwood will work.

Because wood is easily scratched and burned, resist the temptation to use it as a cutting board or landing pad for hot pots and pans. Wood must be sealed with bar wax or a similar product every few months to prevent water damage.

Buy the lengths you need and simply cut to fit. If you wish to install an undermounted sink, you will need to cut the hole for it precisely and waterproof the edges to protect them from moisture. A self-rimming sink is an easier option.

Solid Surface

Extremely durable, almost impossible to chip or burn. Scratches can be sanded away. The easiest material to keep clean. Many colors and patterns available. Sink can be formed right into the countertop to create an integral sink.

High prices and, for some brands, limited choices. Can be cracked by hot pots and pans. If the countertop is badly damaged, replacement is expensive because of it being one integral piece.

Most types can only be installed by a certified professional who is contracted by the manufacturer.

Stone

Granite, limestone, slate, and marble are commonly available; granite is the most popular. Hard stone is difficult to scratch, resists most stains, and does not require a surface sealer. Granite tiles can be installed in much the same way as ceramic tile and cost far less than installing a solid granite slab.

Granite slabs are very expensive. Marble easily stains but when polished is a perfect choice for a baking center. Even very hard, polished stone tends to be slightly pitted and porous. Limestone and slate may absorb stains.

Stone slabs should be installed by a professional; however, you should inspect a variety of slabs to choose the one that appeals to you. Make sure the installers polish all exposed edges.