The materials that we choose when we renovate a home are a direct reflection of both our personalities and how we anticipate using the space.  Tremendous time, care and finances are used to ensure that the right decision is made.  Resale value of a home is often based on the kitchen and bathroom and for those planning to actually live in the renovated space, choosing the right materials are paramount. The options for kitchen countertops are tremendous and marble countertops are often at the top of this list.

Some of the top options for countertops include granite; engineered stones; stainless steel; wooden butcher blocks; ceramic; concrete; soapstone; laminates; paper-based composite; and marble countertops.  For each of these options, there is a consumer who finds it to be exactly what they are looking for.  Once the renovator has decided on a budget, a general style and personality for the space and its function, they are ready to decide on the exact materials that will be used.

Each type of material has clear pros and cons and a wide range in price.  Laminate is one of the most affordable countertop materials and is a good choice if your budget is tight. It is also low maintenance and easy to clean.  Stainless Steel has become trendy in the past two decades going from being seen only in commercial kitchens and high traffic kitchens to giving homes, condos and lofts a more industrially hip look. It is nearly indestructible and both heat and bacteria resistant and adds a fresh touch to any contemporary space. Similar to stainless steel, concrete also adds a slight edge or attitude to a space and due to its extreme versatility, it can be cast in any shape and custom tinted to match any style. The only downside to these materials is that they are lacking that warm, homey feel. Often this is something you can only get natural marble countertops, or granite.

Butcher block has a classic appeal and always looks fresh. It’s especially fitting for traditional, country and cottage-style kitchens. And for those who are eco-conscious, materials such as bamboo and paper composite becomes extremely popular. Created from paper fibers mixed with resin, this surface is eco-friendly and a whole lot more durable than it sounds. Paper composite countertops are made of post-consumer recycled paper and other fibers held together by a formaldehyde-free thermo set plastic resin. Once again, however, they lack the warm beauty of marble countertops or other natural stones.

Marble Countertops are one of the most glamorous, high end, stunning finishing for a space that seeks a level of elegance.  The characteristic swirls and veins of many colored marble varieties are usually due to various mineral impurities such asclay,silt,sand,iron oxides, or chert which were originally present as grains or layers in the limestone. It is very rare to find two pieces of marble alike.  This uniqueness also increases the allure of this material. It also stands up to heat well and is bacteria resistant. Regardless of the materials chosen, the most important thing is that you love the space you have created and that it reflects both your personality and function.