What are the top kitchen countertop materials utilized for remodeling homes in the United States in 2022/2023? Here’s the breakdown reported by Consumer Goods & FMCG (Fast-moving consumer goods.) We will also offer usability results provided by Consumer Reports.
5. Marble – 4% – Marble takes on a patina, to some, but others see it as marred. Minor nicks and scratches can be polished out, but marble chips easily and needs to be resealed periodically. On sealed marble, most stains are wiped away with water.
4. Quartzite – 9% – Quartzite is harder than granite, so it is quite durable. It withstands heat very well. Quartzite requires quite a bit more TLC. It must be sealed before use and re-sealed once or twice per year. Without a proper seal, stains can penetrate into the stone. This is a weakness shared by all natural stones including granite and marble. When properly sealed, quartzite cleanup is easy.
Today’s buyers aren’t so keen on granite, and they’re definitely not looking for laminate. If you splurge on one upgrade in the kitchen, make it quartz countertops.
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3. Butcher Block or Wood Slab – 10% – It adds warmth and is easy to install and repair, but the finish makes a difference. Varnish improved stain resistance, but penetrating oils diminished it.
2. Granite – 24% – Each slab of this natural material is unique; rare colors and veining cost more. Heat, cuts, and scratches didn’t harm granite in our tests. Polished and matte finishes resisted most stains when properly sealed, so pick the look you prefer.
1. Quartz – 42% – It mimics the look of stone but requires less maintenance. Hot pots, serrated knives, abrasive pads, and most stains were no match for quartz, which is a combination of mineral, color, and resin. It comes in vibrant colors in addition to patterns that look like granite and marble.
Resources:
Countertop Guides: QUARTZ VS. QUARTZITE COUNTERTOPS
Consumer Reports: Countertop Buying Guide
Statistica: Leading kitchen countertop materials used for remodeled homes in the United States in 2021/2022