Are you tired of your outdated bathroom countertop and ready for a fresh, modern look? Overwhelmed by the vast array of countertop materials available for your en suite bathroom remodel?
In this blog post, we'll guide you through a comprehensive comparison of popular bathroom countertop materials, helping you find the perfect match for your bathroom design.
By the end of this post, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision on the best countertop material for your needs and budget.
Before we get into the pros and cons of each type of countertop material, let's first go over some key factors every Georgia homeowner should consider when selecting bathroom countertops.
What To Consider When Choosing A Bathroom Countertop Material
When selecting the perfect countertop material for your bathroom, there are several factors to consider.
By evaluating these aspects, you can ensure that your choice aligns with your preferences, budget, and overall bathroom design.
Durability
Bathroom countertops should be able to withstand daily use, moisture, and heat.
Some materials, like quartz, granite, and tempered glass, are more durable and resistant to scratches and stains.
On the other hand, materials such as laminate and wood countertops may be less durable and more susceptible to damage.
Cost
Budget is an important consideration when choosing a countertop material.
Laminate and ceramic tile countertops tend to be more affordable options, while natural stone countertops like granite, marble, and quartz can be more expensive.
Concrete and tempered glass countertops may also be costly, depending on the level of customization.
Check out our guide to budgeting for a bathroom remodel here.
Sustainability
For those who prioritize eco-friendliness, some countertop materials have a smaller environmental footprint.
Wood countertops can be a sustainable choice, especially when sourced from responsibly managed forests.
Additionally, some manufacturers offer solid surface countertops made from recycled materials.
Availability
The availability of countertop materials may vary depending on your location.
Natural stone materials like granite, marble, and soapstone may be more readily available in areas close to quarries.
However, other materials like quartz, solid surface, and laminate countertops are typically widely available due to their manufacturing processes.
Keep in mind that newer materials, such as ultra compact quartz, may also have limited availability due to fewer manufacturers and distributors handling this material.
Installation (DIY or Professional?)
While some countertop materials can be installed as a DIY project, professional installation is often recommended for the best results.
Materials like natural stone, concrete, and tempered glass require specialized tools and expertise for proper installation.
Professional installation ensures a seamless fit and finish, while also providing peace of mind with warranties and guarantees.
Although a professional installation may come at a higher cost, the benefits of a well-executed job often outweigh the additional expense.
Additionally, a professional contractor will ensure the entire remodeling process is smooth for you, so you can have peace of mind.
By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision on the ideal countertop material for your bathroom remodel.
Taking into account durability, cost, sustainability, availability, and installation options will help you select a countertop that not only meets your design preferences but also stands the test of time.
Now that you know what to consider when choosing a bathroom countertop material, let's take a closer look at the various options available:
Comparing Bathroom Countertop Materials
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are a popular choice for modern bathroom designs, offering both durability and style.
Pros
- Extremely durable and resistant to scratches
- Low-maintenance and non-porous
- Wide range of colors and patterns are available
- Heat resistant
Cons
- Higher cost compared to some other materials
- Not as heat resistant as granite or concrete
You can learn more about how quartz countertops compare to granite here.
Ultra Compact Quartz Countertops
Ultra compact quartz countertops are a relatively new and innovative option for bathroom countertops. This unique material is created by combining glass, porcelain, and quartz, which are then bonded together under extreme pressure and high temperatures.
Some popular brands of ultra compact quartz include Dekton and Neolith.
These countertops offer a range of benefits and are becoming increasingly popular due to their impressive performance and aesthetic qualities.
Pros
- Extremely durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat
- Low-maintenance and easy to clean
- Wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes available, including designs that resemble natural stone
- Non-porous surface, making it resistant to water and bacteria
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications
Cons
- Can be more expensive than other countertop materials
- Relatively new material, with limited availability and awareness among homeowners
- May require professional installation for the best results
- Susceptible to chipping or cracking if not properly installed or maintained
- Not as widely recognized or well-established as other countertop materials
Solid Surface Countertops
Solid surface countertops provide a seamless look, making them a popular choice for contemporary bathrooms.
Pros
- Non-porous and stain-resistant
- Easy to repair and maintain
- Customizable with a wide variety of colors and patterns
- Can be seamlessly integrated with sinks
Cons
- Less heat resistant than some natural stone options
- Can be scratched or dented more easily than stone countertops
Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops offer a budget-friendly option for updating your bathroom.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Wide range of colors and patterns available
Cons
- Not as durable as other countertop materials
- Can be damaged by heat and moisture
- Less attractive than natural stone or solid surface options
Porcelain Slab Countertops
Porcelain slab countertops are an excellent choice for homeowners who desire the appearance of natural stone without the need for extensive maintenance.
These countertops are crafted from a high-quality clay known as kaolinite into slabs of porcelain that are often designed to mimic the look of natural stone, providing an elegant and durable option for your bathroom.
Pros
- Durable and resistant to scratches and stains
- Low-maintenance and easy to clean
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including designs that resemble natural stone
- Heat, water, and sunlight-resistant
- No grout lines or tiles, offering a seamless appearance
Cons
- Can be expensive, especially for high-quality slabs
- Susceptible to chipping or cracking if not properly installed or maintained
- May require professional installation for the best results
Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are a popular choice for their natural beauty and durability.
Pros
- Unique patterns and colors from natural stone
- Durable and resistant to heat, scratches, and stains
- Adds value to your home
Cons
- Granite countertops' cost can be higher than other materials
- Requires periodic sealing to prevent stains
Marble Countertops
Marble countertops add a touch of luxury to any bathroom design.
Pros
- Luxurious and timeless appearance
- Heat resistant
- Available in a variety of colors and patterns
Cons
- Can be easily scratched or etched
- Requires regular sealing to prevent stains
- Higher cost than some other materials
Cultured Marble Countertops
Cultured marble countertops offer the beauty of natural marble at a more affordable price.
Similar to quartz countertops, cultured marble countertops are made from a combination of marble dust mixed with resin binders.
Pros
- More affordable than natural marble
- Durable and stain-resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Not as heat resistant as natural marble
- Limited color and pattern options compared to natural stone
Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone countertops provide a unique and durable option for bathroom countertops.
Pros
- Non-porous and resistant to stains
- Heat resistant
- Natural, rustic appearance
Cons
- Requires regular oiling to maintain its appearance
- Limited color options
- Can be scratched more easily than some other stone options
Concrete Countertops
Concrete countertops offer a modern, industrial look for your bathroom.
Pros
- Customizable with a wide range of colors and finishes
- Durable and heat resistant
- Unique, modern appearance
Cons
- Can be expensive, depending on the customization
- Susceptible to cracks if not properly installed or maintained
- Requires sealing to prevent stains
Tempered Glass Countertops
Tempered glass countertops offer a sleek and contemporary look for your bathroom.
Pros
- Stylish and modern
- Easy to clean
- Can be customized with various colors and textures
Cons
- Can be expensive, depending on the level of customization
- Can be prone to scratches and chips
- Less heat resistant than some other materials
Wood Countertops
Wood countertops bring warmth and natural beauty to your bathroom design.
Pros
- Adds a warm, natural aesthetic to your bathroom
- Can be customized with various wood species and finishes
- Environmentally friendly option
Cons
- Requires regular sealing and maintenance to prevent damage from water and moisture
- Not as heat resistant as some other materials
- Can be susceptible to scratches and dents
Bring Your Dream Bathroom To Life With Ranney Blair Remodeling
The vast array of bathroom countertop materials each comes with its unique set of pros and cons.
By considering your needs, style preferences, and budget, you can select the perfect countertop material for your bathroom remodel.
Ranney Blair Remodeling is here to help you transform your bathroom into a beautiful and functional space that suits your lifestyle.
Don't hesitate to fill out our contact form today or give us a call to get started on your dream bathroom renovation project!
Countertops for bathrooms need to be waterproof, easy to clean, affordable, durable, and of course, attractive. A few bathroom countertops hit those marks. Laminate, quartz, solid surface, tile, and stone are the most viable countertop choices. A couple of outliers, concrete and crushed glass, offer unique, eye-catching alternatives if you'd like something a little different.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Illustration: The Spruce / Lara Antal
Laminate
Pros
Inexpensive
Lightweight
DIY-friendly
Cons
Cannot be refinished
Delamination possible
Lower resale value
Laminate countertops are made from layers of plastic that are bonded to a particleboard (MDF) core to create a solid countertop surface. Countertops that are available in-stock are unified pieces that can be cut and fit by anyone.
Laminate counters can be created by fabricators who can make a countertop to your specifications from a designer laminate, giving it custom edges and other designer features.
Laminate countertops work well in guest bathrooms or powder rooms. They can also serve as a quick fix where you need to redecorate a bathroom quickly, such as when staging your home for sale.
Quartz
Pros
Will not crack
Stain-resistant
Excellent resale value
Cons
Quartz countertops are made from 70- to 90-percent ground-up quartz and other stone minerals, blended with resins and pigments, and then shaped into countertop slabs.
A variety of styles is available, some of which are nearly indistinguishable from natural stone slabs. These countertops are often sold with integrated sink basins built into them. Major manufacturers of quartz countertops include Corian and Cambria.
Quartz is considered the highest-end countertop material and will enhance the appearance and value of most homes. Quartz' high price can deter some buyers. Quartz countertops typically cost between $50 and $200 per square foot. Also, while quartz cannot crack, like stone will, it will scorch if subjected to high heat.
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Pros
Inexpensive
DIY-friendly
Wide range of designs
Cons
Might crack
Grout lines
Poor resale value
Ceramic tiles are made of clay with a surface glaze; they are heated by fire to harden them. Porcelain is a type of ceramic that features finer clays fired under higher temperatures.
Porcelain is a harder and denser material that is excellent for floors and countertops. Porcelain is more waterproof than ceramic tile. While both ceramic and porcelain work for countertops, porcelain has a slight advantage.
Expect to pay $2 to $15 per square foot if you are installing your own tile countertop. For professional installation, costs are typically about $16 to $65 per square foot.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are a good choice to save money on a quality countertop by doing the work yourself. Grout lines can easily stain and discolor, requiring periodic cleaning and resealing.
Solid Surface
Pros
Cons
Artificial feeling
Scratches easily
Might scorch
Made from a blend of acrylic and polyester particles bonded together with resins, solid surface countertop materials are generally formulated to resemble stone and can be shaped into a variety of shapes, including all-in-one countertops with sink basins integrated into them.
Solid surface materials are excellent in heavy-use bathrooms. Solid surface countertops are easy to refurbish. Scratches can be sanded down with fine-grit sandpaper by any homeowner. Do-it-yourselfers can even buff down solid surface material to a fine gloss with a vehicle buffer.
Natural Stone
Pros
Cons
Requires sealing
Expensive
Cracks possible
Natural stone bathroom countertop consists of a thick solid slab with openings cut for the faucet and the sink. In some cases, stone countertops are created with tiles that are laid similar to ceramic tile countertops. Each type of stone has its own set of pros and cons.
- Slate: With colors in shades of gray, black, or green, slate resists stains once sealed.
- Soapstone: A milky stone with subtle veining, soapstone is naturally waterproof.
- Marble: Marble is a relatively soft, porous stone that needs to be sealed every year or two.
- Granite: Granite is the most popular natural stone for countertops, thanks to its availability and diversity.
Most natural stone requires period sealing and more maintenance when compared to ceramic tile and engineered stone
Concrete
Pros
Unique look
Durable and strong
Seamless
Cons
When used as a countertop material, concrete has a highly polished surface. Some installers even embed tile, stone, or bits of polished glass into the surface during fabrication.
Concrete countertops are one of the more expensive options—expect to pay $58 to $140 per square foot, fabricated and installed. They are a good choice when you want to make a special design statement, and can also serve well for heavy-use family bathrooms.
It's easy to reverse-mold simple concrete countertops from MDF and quick-set concrete. Premium concrete countertops molded in situ are more difficult for DIYers and must be made by experienced fabricators.
Crushed Glass
Pros
Strong
Easy to clean
Wide variety of designs
Cons
Some types are brittle
Difficult to repair
Require sealing
Countertops made of crushed glass are a relatively new introduction, but they are steadily becoming more popular. These countertops are made from recycled crushed glass embedded in either clear acrylic or concrete.
These uniquely beautiful countertops are striking to look at, and they lend a bathroom a trendy designer appeal. Because they are typically custom fabricated, no two crushed glass countertops look the same. They can be either traditional in appearance, or extremely modern, depending on the glass used in them
Crushed glass countertops typically cost $65 to $140 per square foot, installed. They are best reserved for upper-end bathrooms where style is important.
FAQ
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What are the top deciding factors for choosing a bathroom countertop?
When deciding on a bathroom countertop, think about durability, stain resistance, ease of cleaning, and matching your decor style. Steer clear of porous surfaces and surfaces that are easy to crack, scratch, or stain.
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Which is better for bathroom countertops: quartz or granite?
People choose quartz over marble or granite for a bathroom vanity countertop since quartz is engineered and not a natural stone slab. It can be less expensive than marble or granite and more eco-friendly and nonporous, making it less susceptible to bacteria and mold and more durable.
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What is better: quartz or quartzite?
Quartz countertops are more versatile and durable than quartzite. Quartzite countertops have a more limited range of colors than quartz counters. Quartz counters are more waterproof than quartzite counters.