Types of Countertops
If you're considering a kitchen remodel or refresh, countertops can make a big difference. They'll need to be aesthetically pleasing, as well as functional. We have the latest styles and colors in quartz, granite, solid surface, laminate and butcher block to suit any space.
Next, let's review each countertop material and explain the benefits of each type, as well as considerations. Finally, we'll explain how to maintain them, so they last for years to come.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are a low-maintenance option, perfect for any busy kitchen. Made from the strongest natural mineral found on earth and mixed with resin, it's nonporous, stain-resistant and easy to clean. You’ll never have to seal, condition or polish it.
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Benefits
- Worry-free maintenance
- Durable
- Nonporous surface protects against bacteria and germs
- Low maintenance and easy to clean
- No sealants, conditioning or polishing required
- Resists heat, scratches and stains
- Colors and patterns stay consisten
Considerations
Quartz countertops can be the perfect addition to your space. Here are some things to know before deciding.
- Cost
- Range: $50-165 per square foot
- Average Cost: $95 per square foot
- May fade or discolor when exposed to UV light
- Can be damaged by excessive heat
- May have visible seams
Maintenance
A quartz countertop is as easy to care for as it is beautiful. Use mild soap and water or a nonabrasive, oil-free cleaning solution. Always remember to avoid harsh chemicals.
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Granite Countertops
Granite is naturally resistant to heat and scratches, making it a popular choice for kitchens. When properly sealed, it’s stain- and bacteria-resistant, meaning it’s the ideal surface for food prep.
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Benefits
Every slab of natural granite is unique. You’ll get a one-of-a-kind variation along with other advantages including:
- Heat and scratch resistance
- Stain and bacteria resistance (if sealed)
- UV resistance
- Food-prep safe
Considerations
Along with the benefits that granite countertops offer, there are some points to consider:
- Cost
- Range: $45-165 per square foot
- Average Cost: $85 per square foot
- May have visible seams
- May require annual sealing and maintenance
- Susceptible to fractures
- May be difficult to repair
Maintenance
Our granite offerings are warranty protected and treated with a sealant to defend against staining and discoloration. To maintain granite, simply use mild soap and water but avoid ammonia-based solutions.
Note: Benefits and considerations above are expectations consistent with the overall granite marketplace and aren’t specific to Lowe’s.
Solid Surface Countertops
Solid surface countertops are the smart choice when you want an affordable and practical option. Made from nonporous acrylic, solid surface countertops are easy to clean and resist stains and bacteria.
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Benefits
When it comes to your kitchen or bathroom, you can’t go wrong with a solid surface countertop.
- Cost
- Range: $40-105 per square foot
- Average Cost: $60 per square foot
- Nonporous surface is easy to clean and disinfect
- Easily repaired if scratched
- Can be used for backsplashes and sinks
- Available in a variety of colors and patterns
Considerations
Making the right choice means knowing all the details. Here are some things to keep in mind when deciding to invest in a solid surface countertop.
- Less heat-resistant than other surfaces
- May be susceptible to scratches
Maintenance
Solid surfaces are man made and nonporous, making them hygienic and easy to clean. Simply use soap and water for everyday cleanup or an ammonia-based cleaner for stains. Avoid using window cleaner.
Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops are a stylish and affordable option that’ll make any kitchen attractive. Choose from a variety of styles, patterns and finishes, and enjoy all the ways laminate makes life easier.
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Benefits
Laminate offers an easy and low-maintenance option for your busy kitchen. It's also the most affordable countertop type. Here are some of the many features you’ll love.
- Cost
- Range: $25-65 per square foot
- Average Cost: $35 per square foot
- Durable
- Easy to clean with mild soap and water
- Suitable for DIY installation
- Water-resistant
- Hundreds of color and style options
Considerations
Determining which countertop to choose is easy when you have all the details. Here are some other factors to know before deciding.
- May be susceptible to scratches
- May have visible seams
- May easily damage with exposure to heat
Maintenance
Laminate countertops are easy to take care of and require little upkeep. All you need is mild soap and water to keep them clean.
Laminate Sheet Countertops
Laminate sheets are the perfect choice when you want to refresh your countertops without replacing them. Laminate sheets are thin and flexible, and they’re installed over your existing countertop for an instant upgrade. With a variety of styles and finishes to choose from, you can achieve the look of natural stone, granite, wood and more.
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Benefits
Laminate sheets are a doable project for a do-it-yourselfer. To make laminate sheets appear seamless, heat is used to form and bend the sheets.
- Cost: $
- Easy to clean with mild soap and water
- Suitable for do-it-yourself (DIY) installation
- Water-resistant
- Hundreds of colors, patterns, styles and sizes
Considerations
Laminate sheets are a cost-effective way to give your kitchen a quick refresh. There are a few factors to consider before deciding if laminate sheets are right for you.
- They aren’t as durable as other countertop materials.
- They may be susceptible to scratches.
- They may crack easily, especially around the edges.
Maintenance
When cleaning laminate sheets, less water is best. Use a clean, damp, nonabrasive cloth and a mild soap to clean.
Butcher-Block Countertops
Butcher-block countertops bring warmth to any kitchen. They’re also perfect for dining areas or focal points like kitchen islands or desks.
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Benefits
Butcher-block countertops add rustic charm to your kitchen and feature plenty of advantages.
- Cost: $ – $$
- Environmentally friendly
- Naturally reduce noise
- Scratches and nicks are easy to sand out
- Perfect for nonfood prep and dining areas
- Over time, may develop a deep patina that’ll add beautiful dimension
Considerations
With all the beauty that butcher-block countertops have to offer, there are also some details to know when deciding.
- Must be treated often with food-safe mineral oil to protect against water damage
- Low resistance to heat and extreme dryness could cause cracking
Maintenance
To clean butcher-block countertops, simply use dish soap, hot water and a sponge to scrub along the wood's grain. Rinse with hot water and then dry thoroughly with a clean dish towel.
Combining Countertop Surfaces
For a truly customized cooking experience, install a combination of different countertops for specific kitchen tasks. For example, stone surfaces work nicely near the range, while solid surfaces are perfect around the sink for easy cleaning.
Because of special exceptions, like custom orders, combinations of countertops could be the most expensive option. Speak with a kitchen project specialist about your budget or needs to find the perfect countertop options for your kitchen.
Explore your countertop options.
While some countertop materials are heat-resistant, excessive heat can still cause damage, either to the material or to sealers and treatment. It's a good idea to use hot pads and trivets for hot pots and pans and to protect the surfaces from countertop cooking appliances.
Decorative Edges
Beauty is in the details, and our decorative edges will complete your kitchen’s look. There are seven types: eased, bevel, round-over, double round-over, ogee, 90-degree edge and waterfall. The edge that you can use will depend on the type of countertop material you select. Below is a list of countertop types and the edges that can be used with each.
Eased: This edge gives a sleek, modern look. It’s a 90-degree angle, but the sharpness of the edge is eased and smooth, creating a gentler right angle. An eased edge can be used with quartz, granite, solid surface and butcher block.
Bevel: A beveled edge is a modern twist on the straight edge. It works with many different design styles and is one of the most popular profiles available. With a 45-degree angled edge, the beveled edge can be used with quartz, granite and solid surface.
Round-Over: This edge is rounded at the top and flat on the bottom. A round-over edge works with quartz, granite and solid surface.
Double Round-Over: Similar to the eased edge, the double round-over edge features slight curve on top and bottom giving the appearance of roundness. This edge works with quartz, granite and solid surface.
90-Degree: This edge, also known as a square edge, is a hard 90 degrees angle on all four sides. This edge works with granite and laminate.
Waterfall: Also known as a continuous countertop edge, the waterfall is one that flows from the countertop and continues down the side and stops at the floor. It unites the countertop, cabinet and the floor. A waterfall edge is used on laminate countertops.
Ogee: Featuring a stunning concave radius, the ogee edge offers an air of classic luxury that pairs well with granite countertops. For natural stone countertops, you can’t beat the ogee edge. It’s the most popular edge profile for natural stone countertops. With a combination of concave and convex curves, an ogee countertop creates an S-shaped curve that offer a sense of luxury. An ogee edge can be used with quartz, granite, laminate and solid surface.
Other Uses for Countertops
Some countertop materials work well for uses beyond kitchen counters. For example, you can use laminate or butcher block to create custom surfaces such as tabletops, bar tops, desks and shelving. In addition, some laminate sheets can work as backsplashes or even cabinet fronts and wall coverings.
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Let's Get Started
From quartz and granite to butcher block and laminate, we have hundreds of countertops in an array of styles and colors to suit any budget. Choose from our in-stock selection or use our Custom Countertop Design Tool to select your material, decorative edge and arrange installation.
And countertops aren't just for kitchens. We can help you with countertops for bathrooms, laundry rooms, workshops, offices and more. Shop online or visit your local store and speak to a Lowe's Red Vest Associate.