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Countertop Buyer's Guide

How to Choose the Right Surface for Your Kitchen or Bath

Material Comparison

Four popular surfaces, each with trade-offs. Here is what to expect.

Quartz

$$$
Best for: Busy Kitchens

Engineered stone — non-porous, never needs sealing, and comes in consistent patterns and colors.

Pros

  • Non-porous, stain-resistant
  • No sealing required
  • Consistent color and pattern
  • Wide range of designs

Cons

  • Heat-sensitive (use trivets)
  • Can discolor in direct sunlight

Granite

$$$
Best for: Statement Pieces

Natural stone with unique veining — every slab is one-of-a-kind. Extremely hard and heat-resistant.

Pros

  • Unique natural patterns
  • Extremely durable
  • Heat-resistant
  • Adds resale value

Cons

  • Needs periodic sealing
  • Can chip on edges

Solid Surface

$$
Best for: Bathrooms

Seamless, repairable, and available with integrated sinks. Scratches can be sanded out.

Pros

  • Seamless appearance
  • Scratches are repairable
  • Integrated sink options
  • Non-porous

Cons

  • Not heat-resistant
  • Can scratch more easily

Butcher Block

$$
Best for: Islands & Accents

Warm, natural wood surface that adds character to any kitchen. Perfect for prep areas and accent islands.

Pros

  • Warm, natural look
  • Can be sanded and refinished
  • Gentle on knives
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Requires regular oiling
  • Can stain and scratch
  • Not ideal near sinks

Edge Profiles

The edge you choose changes the entire feel of your countertop. Here are the most popular options.

Eased

Standard square edge with a slight round on top. Clean and modern.

Beveled

Angled top edge that catches light. A transitional classic.

Bullnose

Fully rounded top edge. Soft, comfortable, family-friendly.

Ogee

S-curve profile. Elegant, traditional, a timeless statement.

Waterfall

Continues down the side of the island. Bold, modern, dramatic.

How to Measure for Countertops

Your measurements help us quote accurately. We laser-template before cutting.

  1. Length of Each Run
    Measure along the wall for each straight section of countertop. Note where runs meet at corners.
  2. Standard Depth
    Most countertops are 25.5" deep with a 1.5" overhang past the cabinet face.
  3. Backsplash
    Standard backsplash is 4" tall. Full-height backsplash runs to the bottom of upper cabinets.
  4. Cutouts
    Note sink location, cooktop location, and any other cutouts needed. Measure rough opening sizes.
Backsplash (4") Sink Length 25.5" 1.5" overhang
Tip: We laser-template every countertop — your measurements help us quote, but we always verify before cutting. Do not worry about being perfect.

Thickness: 2cm vs 3cm

This affects cost, support requirements, and visual impact.

2cm (3/4")

  • Lighter weight
  • Less expensive
  • Needs plywood substrate support
  • Common in bathrooms
  • Thinner visual profile

3cm (1-1/4")

  • Industry standard for kitchens
  • Self-supporting — no plywood needed
  • Premium, substantial look
  • Thicker edge profiles available
  • Best resale value

Ready to Choose?

Schedule a consultation to see slab samples and edge profiles in our Clayton showroom, or browse options online.

Schedule a Consultation View Countertop Options

Contractors and Designers: Apply for Trade Pricing

Verified trade professionals get Kitchen tier pricing (25% off MSRP) on any quantity, plus free shipping.

Apply for Trade Account →