#The Pros and Cons of Countertop Materials

In premium kitchen countertops, the most popular choices are solid surface, engineered stone and granite. Here's the difference between them.

About countertops

Solid surface

Solid surface has a softer, warmer feel than stone, and is available in a huge range of colors and styles. An especially appealing feature is that seams are invisible.

These tops—sold under various brand names—are made from acrylic and polyester blends. One company alone offers its product line in more than 110 colors and textures, and with dozens of edge profiles available, the possibilities are endless. Solid surface tops are nonporous, making them excellent for food preparation and difficult to stain. They can be formed into nearly any shape and size, sinks can be undermounted, and joined sections, when installed correctly, appear seamless. These tops are durable, and if they're burned or scratched, the damage can usually be sanded and buffed out by a certified installer. Avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface; intense heat can pop seams and discolor surfaces.

Expect to spend $45 to $75 per square foot installed. Manufacturers typically warranty their product for 10 years.