How To Pick A Perfect Kitchen Countertop

Thu May 15 2025

Kitchen Design & Remodeling

Countertops come in an exciting range of styles and materials. Beyond color and texture, modern surfaces offer everything from enhanced durability to eco-conscious design. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a countertop that fits your lifestyle, appliances, and your kitchen’s look.

Aesthetics

Start by thinking about the visual impact you want. Are you drawn to subtle neutrals or bold statement pieces? The right countertop can anchor your design or quietly complement other elements in the space.

Options include:

Natural stones like granite, marble, soapstone, and quartzite.
Engineered surfaces like quartz, porcelain slabs, or sintered stone.
Eco-friendly options such as recycled glass, bamboo, or paper composite.
Unique finishes like stainless steel, concrete, or lava stone for modern flair.

Butcher block and wood countertops add natural texture for a warm, inviting look. Marble lends elegance with timeless veining, and quartz offers a clean, polished feel that adapts to many styles.

Pro Tip: Before planning, look online and create a mood board of ideas and inspiration to help you decide the aesthetic you are going for.

Durability

A beautiful surface should also meet your daily demands. Consider how you cook and who will be using the kitchen. Do you spill frequently? Will you place hot pots on these countertops? Are you going to use a knife directly on your countertops?

Here’s how popular materials stack up:

Laminate: Laminate is affordable and easy to clean, but less heat-resistant and more susceptible to damage.
Tile: Tile is affordable and available in countless styles, but grout lines require regular cleaning and sealing.
Wood/Butcher Block: Wood countertops add warmth and natural beauty, but can scratch, stain, or warp if not appropriately maintained and require regular sealing.
Quartz: Quartz is highly durable, non-porous, and low-maintenance, making it ideal for busy households.
Granite: Granite is also durable and heat-resistant, but may require occasional sealing.
Marble: Marble is gorgeous but porous and more prone to stains or etching; it is often used for baking stations or islands.
Soapstone: Soapstone is soft and stain-resistant but may scratch or crack over time and requires oiling.

Your choice should match your lifestyle and expectations for upkeep.

Budget Considerations

Countertop pricing varies widely, so defining your budget upfront is essential. Here are some typical price ranges per square foot (installed) according to HomeGuide.com and HomeAdvisor.com.

Laminate: $20–$80
Tile: $25–$80
Wood/Butcher Block: $50–$100
Quartz and Granite: $50–$200
Marble: $40–$150
Slate or Lava Stone: $50 and up

Remember that installation complexity, edge style, and surface treatment affect the final cost. Mixing materials, such as using quartz on the perimeter and butcher block on the island, is a great way to balance cost and function.

Resale Value Considerations

Your countertop selection can have a lasting impact on your home's market appeal. Timeless, low-maintenance surfaces like quartz and granite not only enhance everyday functionality but also appeal to future homebuyers.

These materials are often considered upgrades and can contribute positively to resale value, especially when paired with a well-coordinated kitchen design. Since these materials can increase your home’s value, tit can justify a higher upfront investment.

Finishing Touches

While many countertops have square edges, don’t overlook decorative edge profiles. Rounded, beveled, or ogee edges can dramatically change the feel of your kitchen. You can also mix materials to add functionality. Consider adding a wood insert for chopping or a different finish on your island for contrast.

Pro Tip: Your countertop should complement your cabinets, backsplash, flooring, and appliances. For example, pair dark countertops with light cabinetry for contrast or carry patterns to the backsplash for a seamless look.

Bring Samples with You

When narrowing down your countertop choices, consider bringing material samples home or to a Mountain High Appliance showroom. Seeing how a sample pairs with your current or desired appliances in natural lighting can help you avoid surprises later. It’s especially helpful to compare countertop swatches against your preferred range, refrigerator, or cabinet finish to ensure a cohesive and intentional look.

Work with a Trusted Partner

If you're working with a kitchen designer, architect, or remodeler, Mountain High Appliance offers unmatched support through our Designer Program.

As members of NKBA and ASID, we understand the details that matter to design professionals and homeowners, from finish coordination to accurate appliance specs. Our showrooms offer live appliances, stunning kitchen vignettes, and expert guidance to help you and your clients make confident decisions.

We also offer top-tier pricing, incentives, and support to ensure every detail aligns with your client’s vision and budget. Whether you're sourcing appliances to match that waterfall island or need help choosing panel-ready options, our team is here to help.

Final Thoughts

Kitchen countertops are more than a work surface; they're a design statement, a cooking partner, and a long-term investment. By considering aesthetics, durability, functionality, and budget, you’ll find the right surface for your space.

Need appliance inspiration to go with your countertop selections? Visit a Mountain High Appliance appliance store in Colorado Springs, Glenwood Springs, Littleton, Louisville, or Denver, and let our experts help bring your kitchen vision to life. Our showrooms are a great place to get inspiration and see how different countertop patterns pair with a variety of appliance finishes and cabinet styles in real-life kitchen settings.

FAQs About Kitchen Countertops

1. Can I put hot pans directly on my countertop?

It depends on the material. Granite and soapstone are heat-resistant, but materials like quartz, laminate, and wood can be damaged by direct heat and should be protected.

2. Can I mix countertop materials in one kitchen?

Absolutely. Many designers mix materials to define zones, like using wood for a prep area and quartz for high-traffic surfaces.

3. How much does it cost to install new countertops?

Costs vary by material and complexity. On average, you can expect to pay between $50 and $150 per square foot installed, depending on your selection and custom features.

4. How do I maintain marble countertops?

Marble should be sealed regularly and cleaned with a pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid acidic spills like vinegar or lemon juice, as they can cause etching.