Corian Countertops Cost Popular Countertops Clear Recycled Glass Countertops

In addition to the cost of the materials, you need to consider the cost of installation of the material you choose for your kitchen countertops. Most countertop installations are best left to the experts, because they require special tools or knowledge for their proper installation. This is especially true for natural stone slab countertops and poured concrete countertops, because of the weight involved. For the do-it-yourselfer, tile countertops can be relatively easy to install, if you have a basic knowledge of tile installation.

Quartz is extremely hard, non-porous, and very elegant. Hardwood countertops are very beautiful, do require a little more upkeep, and are more forgiving to dishes if they are dropped on wood countertops, than granite or quartz.

Manmade materials include laminates, Corian, tile, and concrete. Laminates are inexpensive and durable, though they can be scratched or burnt relatively easily. Corian countertops are extremely durable, more costly, and are an attempt to mimic a natural stone look for a more affordable price. Tile has been used for centuries and is popular choice in Europe and South American kitchen designs. If one tile is damaged it can be removed and replaced without having to replace the whole countertop.