Are you planning to make a kitchen remodel? These are the top designs of countertops that are available for 2023-2024.
There's a wide range of countertop materials for kitchen designs, finishes, styles, and colors. Certain countertop types have higher demand than other types. The countertop in your kitchen looks nice, but it must also remain durable and straightforward to clean. These are the best kitchen countertop trends for 2023-2024.
What's the Most Popular Kitchen Countertop Right Now?
There are numerous countertops for kitchens available. There are, however, several kinds currently getting more interest. "Quartz and marble continue to be the most popular countertop choices amongst homeowners today," states Margie Kaercher, the founder and designer at Hearth and Honey Homes.
Here are the top 6 countertops for kitchens:
According to Kaercher, "Quartz is an engineered stone that combines approximately 80% to 93% natural materials with pigments and resins, resulting in a highly durable and easy-to-care-for choice. The inclusion of artificial pigments in quartz production provides homeowners with a broad range of options, making it a versatile choice for harmonizing with other elements in kitchen design."
Average Price
Quartz prices vary dramatically based on its quality. Quartz countertops typically cost 50 to $75 for a square foot. However, premium quartz countertops are priced as high as $200 for a square foot for installation. Quartz countertops with lower quality have veins as well as some discoloration. Top quartz countertops do not have visible veins and are very deep in color. The priciest quartz countertops can be made to order.
Pros of Quartz Countertops
- Recyclable.
- Long-lasting.
- Clean and easy to maintain.
- A variety of colors and design possibilities.
- Ultra-durable.
Cons of Quartz Countertops
- Expensive.
- Predisposed to damage from heat.
- Heavy.
Granite has been a fashionable countertop material in the kitchen for many years. However, Kaercher claims that the current trend is based entirely on slabs.
"Aside from certain granite colors and patterns being out of style, it is still a durable and fairly low-maintenance option if you can find a slab that suits your aesthetic," she adds. Other popular choices for granite are the more subtle or lighter colors and veined granite.
Average Price
Quality and size are the most critical price considerations. Granite countertops can cost anywhere between $40 to $100 per square foot. This includes labor, adding $35-$85/hour to the total cost. Granite tiles are an inexpensive alternative and are priced between $5 to $15 per square foot. The tiles can be placed over the countertops already in place, saving from the costs of disposal and demolition.
Pros of Granite Countertops
- Heat-resistant.
- It is available in a variety of styles and color combinations.
- Long-lasting.
- Super sturdy.
- Simple to wash.
Cons of Granite Countertops
- Expensive.
- Cracks can occur if seals are not done correctly.
- Slabs are not perfect and may show imperfections.
- Porous.
Marble is a natural stone that has become an essential element in luxury kitchens and is a common countertop material in kitchens. Marble is a unique material. It will be the same due to its place and the impurities, patterns, colors, and veining. Each piece is distinct and unique; marble countertops are available with a range of costs and characteristics.
Marble can be pricier than many other materials. However, it is able to last for a long time when maintained regularly.
Average Price
The typical cost of marble countertops is $60 per square foot. However, it could vary from 40 to $100 for a square foot. Installation costs are approximately $35-$45 per hour. The cost of the materials and installation depends on the kind, grade, transportation costs, and other factors. Certain types of marble are scarce, and therefore, the price is higher. If you opt for marble tiles rather than solid slabs, it is possible to lower the cost by 30 to 50 percent.
Pros of Marble Countertops
- Increases the value of your home.
- Resilient to the heat.
- Unique veining.
- It lasts for a long time with regular maintenance and sealing.
Cons of Marble Countertops
- Pricey.
- Maintenance-intensive.
- It is porous and easily stained.
- Scratches quickly.
Soapstone is an organic substance made of steatite, which is often not used in the same way as a countertop material in the kitchen. Soapstone typically is a darker grey, and it will continue to become darker over time. Although some people appreciate the natural patina, it could be unbalanced.
It is highly nonporous and is resistant to staining, but eventually, scratches will appear. Soapstone is more durable than the other types of materials, and it is not prone to cracks.
Average Price
homeowners typically pay between $55 and $120 per square foot to install soapstone kitchen countertops. This is an average of $65/square foot. For installed countertops, you should budget between $550 and $750 to hire a professional. The cost includes installation, delivery, prep work, and cleanup. This will increase the price for unique options such as backsplashes or cutouts.
Pros of Soapstone Countertops
- Green and sustainable.
- Gorgeous coloring.
- It is stain-resistant.
- Heat-resistant.
- Scratches can be fixed.
- It is easy to maintain.
Cons of Soapstone Countertops
- The color may change and become irregular.
- The surface can be scratched or damaged.
- A few color choices.
Countertops made of stainless steel make the perfect kitchen countertops for those with industrial designs. The stainless steel material is heat-resistant and durable. It is also easy to clean and naturally antibacterial. It's available in various colors, like mirror polish, satin, polished metal, and antique matte. However, it is susceptible to scratching, and contact with cookware made of metal and cutlery may be noisy.
Average Price
The cost of stainless steel kitchen countertops ranges from $70-$215 per square foot, and the installation costs an additional $10 for each square foot. The thickness or gauge will affect the cost.
The cost of custom-made stainless steel counters can be at the top end of the spectrum and also includes the wooden base, which the steel encases. It is possible to cut down on price by purchasing the ground yourself with an average thickness of 23-32 inches. Four-by-eight sheets cost around $22.
Pros of Stainless Steel Countertops
- Recyclable.
- Heat-resistant.
- Super sturdy.
- Cleanest countertops.
- Antibacterial.
Cons of Stainless Steel Countertops
- The skin is prone to scratches.
- Noisy.
Concrete countertops in kitchens are gaining popularity and offer homeowners an exclusive and fashionable appearance. Concrete can be customized with a wide range of styles and color choices. It is usually poured and set within the kitchen area. Concrete is strong and durable. It needs regular care and maintenance. Any spills should be removed promptly. Concrete is prone to cracking. However, specific techniques could reduce the chances of this happening.
A thing to keep in mind is the fact that concrete requires between 4 and 10 weeks for it to fully cure according to the amount of humidity and other additives present in the concrete. It is recommended to not touch your countertop at this point.
Average Price
If you are making a countertop for your kitchen made of concrete, The contractor will make concrete on-site or make it ready at a warehouse to your requirements. The amount of the final price as well as how long the time it takes to finish the task.
The cost for pouring and installing an on-site concrete countertop is between $ 60 and $145 for a square foot. Similarly, an already-cast concrete countertop can range between $65-$150 per square foot. If you'd like to add specific details such as edge or color, you must make it directly on-site. The price will depend on the dimensions as well as the color and finish.
Pros of Concrete Countertops
- The material is resistant to heat and scratches.
- Customizable.
- Durable.
- There are plenty of styles and color choices.
Cons of Concrete Countertops
- Very high maintenance.
- The skin is prone to cracking.
- Extremely massive.
- It can be costly because of custom-made work.
- The material is porous and requires sealing often.
What Types of Countertops Are Outdated?
While granite remains the most sought-after countertop for kitchen use, specific designs must be updated.
Another outdated material is ceramic tile. Kaercher says that the grout lines don't work to use in everyday life and maintenance. Laminates, coated with plastic and synthetic substances, have been popular for a long time but are no longer trending.
How Do I Choose Kitchen Countertop Material?
"Because countertops are one of the most, if not the most, used element in the kitchen, it's important to not only pick a material that aligns with your style preferences but also makes sense for your kitchen use," Kaercher adds.
She says that longevity and upkeep are among the most essential aspects to think about when looking at the choices.
What Is the Most Durable Type of Countertop?
Quartz countertop countertops rank among the toughest. They are crushed and then mixed with resin, which makes them almost indestructible. It isn't a concern about chips, scratches, or chips, and it won't need to be sealed. However, it's less durable than some other types of materials. Also, seams could be apparent.
Which Is the Easiest Countertop to Maintain?
The most straightforward kitchen countertops to clean are porous ones and stain-resistant in nature, like laminates, stainless steel, soapstone, granite, and quartz. Cleaning is usually done by wiping the countertop with a soft cloth and using soapy water.
