If you are considering new countertops, explore

Granite

Granite is available in several grades: the better the grade, the higher the price. Granite is a natural stone that creates a beautiful and elegant look for any kitchen. It's extremely durable and resistant to heat. Granite countertops are available in a wide range of colors.

Wood or Butcher Block

Wood or butcher bock countertops are a great choice for a rustic-themed kitchen. Maple and oak are most often used, and they are sealed to prevent staining. There is more maintenance involved with wood countertops than most other countertops. They need to be sanded and resealed about once a year (more or less, depending upon use).

Concrete

Concrete is a great countertop option for those who seek a one-of-a-kind look for their kitchen. There are many benefits to installing concrete countertops, but be aware that they can cost $65-$100 per square foot. Benefits include: durability - they resist all types of damage including chipping, cracking and scratching; simple maintenance they need to be re-sealed about once a year; eco-friendly- concrete is a widely available and renewable resource, which makes it the preferred choice for homeowners seeking an eco-friendly countertop option. Additionally, concrete countertops can be formed on site, which eliminates seams in the countertop.

Engineered Stone (Quartz)

Engineered stone countertops are composed of quartz particles mixed with colored pebbles, polymers and epoxy. They cost about the same as granite. The advantage over granite is that engineered stone is available in a larger range of colors. The countertops resist scratches and require annual sealing.

Soapstone

If you are looking for an extremely smooth and sleek countertop, then soapstone could be for you. It has an impressively smooth feel and is available in deep colors. It does not stain, and no liquid can permeate its surface. Soapstone is a cost-efficient choice in that it can be installed by a beginner DIYer. Because soapstone is a soft stone, it can be cut and shaped without any special stone-working tools. Many homeowners choose soapstone for DIY countertop projects.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is heat-resistant, durable and easy to clean, making it a smart countertop choice. Stainless steel countertops are often used in contemporary kitchens. A sound-dampening undercoating is necessary to reduce noise associated with the countertops. They are stain-resistant and can be safely bleached.

Marble

Marble is extremely expensive and is not a common countertop choice. However, it is more commonly used for islands and baking centers. Marble has some great qualities including that it's waterproof and heat resistant.

Ceramic Tile

Many average homeowners are choosing to install ceramic tile countertops. They are durable, easy to clean and cost-efficient. There are many color choices, and tile can be installed by a DIYer. Some of the disadvantages include that the surface is not smooth, and regular maintenance is required. Maintenance includes cleaning the grout and fixing chipped tiles.