As you plan your kitchen remodeling or building project, you’re making a lot of big decisions. One of the most important is which material you’ll choose for your kitchen countertops, as this it will have a huge impact on both the look and function of your new space. Big Island Countertops, based in Hilo, HI, has all the supplies you need. So before you decide what material to get, you should learn about some of the most popular options available.

Granite

When you think of kitchen countertops, granite is likely the first thought to come to mind, and with good reason. It’s a very popular option because of the many benefits it offers. Granite is very strong, so it will not be scratched by knives or cookware. It’s also heat-resistant so that a stove won’t wear it down. Properly sealed granite countertops will last for decades, and due to its unique marbled appearance, every counter is one-of-a-kind. Depending on the type of granite chosen and how large of a slab you need, this material is a mid-to-high range cost.

Corian®

Corian is a synthetic, solid material that comes in a wide array of colors, allowing you to customize it to your taste. It is heat- and scratch-resistant like granite, but does tend to be a little less durable. You can expect Corian countertops to cost about 10-20% less than similar granite ones. The non-porous material won’t be stained and is extremely easy to clean, requiring little to no maintenance.

Quartz

Quartz is an engineered stone, meaning it is created with about 95% natural stone and 5% resin materials. It has the appearance and qualities of natural stone but is also engineered to get rid of the weaknesses. There are quite a few color options to choose from, and the appearance has depth that solid color counters like Corian don’t have. Quartz countertops are also non-porous, so they are resistant to staining, and are strong like granite to protect against scratches and heat. The price of quartz is comparative to granite but will depend on the quality of quartz and type of edging you want.

Granite, Corian, and quartz are all fantastic options for your new kitchen countertops. Your choice will depend on the look you’re going for and what you’re hoping to get out of your counter. The specialists at Big Island Countertops are very knowledgeable about these materials and can help you make this tough decision. Test out their online price estimator to get an idea of the budget for your project, or call them at (808) 961-6633 to get an expert’s input on the best choice for you.