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Finding the perfect countertop is easier than you think. Whether you’re looking for affordability, function or style, today’s market is full of options.

Finding the perfect countertop is easier than you think. Whether you’re looking for affordability, function or style, today’s market is full of options. To help you make the right choice, we took a look at the wide range of materials available.
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BUTCHER BLOCK

ECO-ALERT! Always look for the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) symbol, which certifies that the product comes from a forest managed in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.

Pros
  • Can be moderately priced
  • Scratches can be removed by sanding

Cons
  • Somewhat resistant to heat and water
  • Vulnerable to fire and burns

Maintenance
  • Wash with damp cloth and mild dish detergent
  • Treat regularly with mineral oil
  • Don’t varnish and avoid vegetable oil, which leaves a sticky residue

Cost (installed)
  • $65+ per square foot
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SOAPSTONE


Pros
  • Visually rich-looking
  • Smooth touch and finish
  • Highly resistant to heat and stains

Cons
  • High maintenance
  • Vulnerable to cracks, which can’t be fixed
  • Can be expensive

Maintenance
  • Coat with mineral oil once a month to preserve colour
  • Wash with damp cloth and mild dish detergent
  • Small scratches can be removed through sanding

Cost (installed)
  • $60–$100 per square foot
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LAMINATE

Pros
  • Variety of colours and styles
  • DIY option
  • Affordable
  • Easy to maintain

Cons
  • Vulnerable to heat and stains as well as burns and scratches

Maintenance
  • Wash with damp cotton cloth and mild dish detergent
  • Use trivets to avoid heat damage

Cost (installed)
  • $15–$30 per square foot

10 Comments

  • by
    sandiz
    on 2009-02-21
    Reply to this comment

    The names of the types described and hidden by the photos

  • by
    kathie gosen
    on 2009-02-26
    Reply to this comment

    Want the most resilient countertops available. What do you think of man-made granite-like products?

  • by
    cmaynard
    on 2009-04-08
    Reply to this comment

    please the names are hidden.

  • by
    Kathryn
    on 2009-04-09
    Reply to this comment

    What about concrete countertops? Ever looked into this product?

  • by
    Kathryn
    on 2009-04-09
    Reply to this comment

    What about concrete countertops? Ever looked into this product?

  • by
    Sherry54
    on 2009-08-20
    Reply to this comment

    What about quartz countertops? I've heard that they do not require sealing and they resist stain very well. Is this true?

  • by
    aliceb
    on 2009-11-25
    Reply to this comment

    How come no one acknowledges that granite can emit radon gas? They look lovely but are they safe??

  • by
    KuccinaStones
    on 2010-02-06
    Reply to this comment

    Radon is a Natural element, present in Nature as a gas and is emitted by Rocks all over the world. In a thin layer of 1 1/4 inch granite, the amount of Radon is so negligible and is depleted quite fast in Nature while being cut in Quarries, long before the countertop gets to your kitchen cabinets counter. There are no official (government) guidelines regarding this aspect, hence most arguments are brought up by the alternative countertop industry (Quartz and other artificially/ man-made countertop material)

  • by
    KuccinaStones
    on 2010-02-06
    Reply to this comment

    For all questions related to the Granite, Quartz, Travertin and Marble, please call Kuccina Stones, Kitchen Quartz or Granite countertops Manufacturers/Importers in the Montreal, Laval area. We'll try to answer, as neutrally as possible, most of your questions. (514)335-667 or (514)992-6482

  • by
    KuccinaStones
    on 2010-02-06
    Reply to this comment

    For all questions related to the Granite, Quartz, Travertin and Marble, please call Kuccina Stones, Kitchen Quartz or Granite countertops Manufacturers/Importers in the Montreal, Laval area. We'll try to answer, as neutrally as possible, most of your questions. (514)335-667 or (514)992-6482

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