When planning your bathroom remodel, countertops will be one of the primary decision points. They need to be aesthetically pleasing as they are a significant feature. But with daily use in a wet environment, bathroom countertops also need to be hard-wearing and low maintenance enough to look beautiful for years to come. Plus, this element will impact your bathroom remodel budget.
The most popular choices for bathroom countertop surfaces are granite and quartz—and for good reason. But sometimes, you can get a unique or luxe look with concrete or natural stones. Check out the pros and cons of these different countertop materials below.
Granite and quartz are the most popular options for a bathroom remodel for a variety of reasons—one being that they can add to your home value.
Granite has traditionally been a top option for bathroom countertops. It comes in a wide range of colors, patterns, styles, and thicknesses that can be customized to fit any bathroom layout. Additionally, it is very durable, and it is unlikely that you will scratch, crack, or chip a granite countertop. Like most natural stone, granite is porous, meaning that spills can potentially stain it if it is not sealed correctly. Granite is sometimes viewed as an expensive luxury option for a bathroom remodel. However, there are ranges in pricing. On average, in Maryland, you can find granite countertops priced anywhere between $40-$140 per square foot. Most of the time, granite can be found for under $100 per square foot. However, the rarer and more unique the stone, the higher the price.
Quartz is an engineered stone (comprised of a mix of 90% natural materials and 10% humanmade materials) that comes in an even more extensive range of colors and customizability than granite. Since it is not a natural stone, this countertop material is non-porous, which can make it less likely to stain than granite. It is also incredibly durable. However, the finish on quartz can often show fingerprints, meaning that it will need to be wiped down frequently. With the average prices in Maryland, the cost of quartz will be similar to granite, with a range of $40-$70 per square foot. However, quartz is heavier and may cost more to install.
If you’re looking for something more unique, or at a lower price point, there are more options than just granite and quartz for your bathroom remodel.
Increasingly on-trend, concrete is being used more often as a bathroom countertop surface. This polished surface can be stained in many different tones and is durable and strong. However, it is very heavy, and you will need to find a contractor that specializes in this material. Plus, if a crack does happen, repairs are usually not an option. However, if you want the trendy concrete look at a lower price point, there are quartz versions that can mimic the appearance of concrete like in this remodel.
A lower budget version of quartz, this acrylic, polyester, and resin blend will give you the seamless look and style of engineered stone, but unfortunately without the durability. However, damage can usually be sanded out. Some homeowners choose solid surface for aesthetic reasons as dozens of styles are available mimicking other stones. Plus, it’s possible to create sleek design elements like seamless sink basins built into the countertop.
Granite is the most popular natural stone due to its availability and diversity. But some homeowners choose to go with alternative natural and beautiful stones such as marble, soapstone, limestone, or slate. These stones have beautiful veining and come in a variety of colors, giving the bathroom a luxe look. However, with that luxe aesthetic comes a higher price per square foot. Additionally, natural stones range in porousness. Slate and soapstone are less porous, resisting stains. Marble and limestone are more porous and need to be professionally sealed before use in the bathroom. Again, though, there are quartz alternatives to many of these natural stones that are less expensive and lower maintenance but mimic the natural look.
If you’re still not sure which bathroom countertop material is best for you, schedule a consultation with one of Brothers’ remodeling experts. Not only will our professional designers walk you through the different materials, but they will also help you choose the rest of your design elements to ensure a cohesive style that perfectly fits your vision.