Things to consider when selecting materials for countertops

Here are some general guidelines on the most popular countertop materials, with tidbits of comments made by our readers.

GRANITE OR NATURAL STONE: This is the stylish, high-end look that so many other surfaces try to mimic

Price range: About $40-$75 per square foot, installed

Advantages: Longevity and durability. It can last a lifetime. Granite is heat tolerant and scratch resistant. Scratches can be polished out. No two slabs of granite are alike, giving each kitchen its own personality.

Disadvantages: It's porous, so it requires annual sealing to keep bacteria out, although some companies offer a lifetime sealant. It can crack under heavy weight or strain, and it's heavy, so the base cabinets must be strong enough to support the additional weight.

Reader comment: "I have remodeled two kitchens in the past 10 years, and I did granite in both. ... It is enjoyable to look at and it adds movement and dimension to the kitchen. Granite just holds its beauty from day one because it's 'natural' and it's meant to outlast us all. My island is constantly filled with a buffet because of our large family; I think the granite actually makes the food look better!"

—Karen Bergmann

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ENGINEERED STONE: Also known as quartz, Silestone, Viatera, Zodiaq and CeasarStone. This is a composite of quartz, stone chips and polymer resins. The patterns in it tend to be smaller and more uniform than the randomness of natural stone.

Price range: About $55-$75 per square foot, installed

Advantages: The same sleek look of granite. It's harder and more durable than natural stone. It resists scratches, scorching, bacteria and stains. It is nonporous, so never needs sealing.

Disadvantages: It's expensive. It's hard; if you drop a glass on it, the glass will shatter.

Reader comment: "I think quartz is the best. It's completely nonporous and never needs to be sealed. Bacteria and other germs won't settle into the surface like nearly all granites can! Quartz is more durable, which means cracks or breaks over time are a lot less likely. Colors are getting better all the time. When you look at quartz, make sure to go to a fabricator that carries a lot of different brands. There are differences in shine, colors and pattern."

—Dusty Stout

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