Top Most Durable Countertop Materials for Busy Families

How has your week been? Unless you just got back from vacation, you’d likely say it was busy. Durango, CO residents lead busy lives, juggling family responsibilities, work, and when possible, hobbies and socializing. However, this leaves little time for worrying about the small things, like your kitchen countertops.

If you’re a homeowner with a bustling household, you know just how much wear and tear your countertops endure. The best way to keep your countertops out of mind is to choose a durable material known to stand the test of time. At Rock Solid Custom Granite, we can present you with several of the most durable countertop materials to keep life moving smoothly. Here are our recommendations.

1. Granite

Granite remains one of the most popular and durable choices for countertops, and it’s no surprise why. Granite is a natural stone, meaning each slab is unique and varies in color and veining. Its natural composition makes it extremely resistant to scratches, heat, and general wear and tear. However, while granite is a resilient countertop surface, it requires some upkeep. We recommend sealing granite countertops every year or two to maximize their resistance to moisture and stains.

You might think of granite only in neutral tones, but this beautiful material is also found with shades of green, red, and yellow veining. Talk to our team about finding a color that suits your space!

2. Quartz

Quartz is an engineered stone designed specifically with durability in mind. It combines natural quartz crystals with resin, creating a non-porous surface that resists scratches, stains, and bacteria. Unlike natural stone, quartz doesn’t need to be sealed, making it low-maintenance and ideal for busy families. Plus, it comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, mimicking the look of marble or granite.

Keeping your quartz countertops in excellent shape is straightforward. Mild soap and water will do the trick! Avoid harsh cleaners that could damage the finish.

3. Quartzite

Quartzite isn’t quite the same as quartzite. While quartz countertops are man-made, quartzite is a natural stone known for exceptional strength and scratch resistance. In addition to being one of the strongest countertops for daily use, it also boasts aesthetical appeal. This material provides the elegant look of marble without excessive upkeep.

While maintenance isn’t too intensive, you will want to periodically seal quartzite to protect it from moisture and stains. Use cutting boards, despite quartzite’s scratch resistance, to preserve the surface.

4. Soapstone

Soapstone may not seem as sturdy as granite, but it’s still a tough countertop material for active households. Soapstone is highly heat resistant and doesn’t stain easily. While it’s softer than the other options on this list, scratches can be easily sanded out. It also has a unique, matte appearance that adds a distinctive look to kitchens and bathrooms. To keep your soapstone in the best shape possible., apply mineral oil to enhance its natural color and texture.

What Makes a Countertop Durable?

Now that you know the basics of family-friendly countertop materials, let’s pin down what exactly makes a countertop durable. You’ll see lots of marketing around durability, so it’s important to understand what this really means. In most cases, durability includes these three factors:

• Scratch Resistance—Kitchen countertops come into contact with sharp edges all the time—just think of all the times you’ve been chopping vegetables and accidentally nicked the counter. The best countertops for busy families will resist scratches from knives and heavy pots.
• Heat Resistance—Heat resistance is essential in the kitchen and bathroom. The top-rated durable countertops stand up to heat from hot pans and styling tools.
• Stain Resistance—Families with children will especially benefit from a countertop material that withstands spills and doesn’t stain easily.

Elegant but Less Durable Options

Durability isn’t everything! While long-lasting countertop options are certainly great for busy families, some homeowners might prefer a luxury aesthetic over durability. If this is the case for you, our team can point you to some of these beautiful surfaces:

• Marble—Marble is a classic for a reason. This material is visually striking, and no two slabs are exactly the same. While marble isn’t as durable as granite, it can last a long time with the proper sealing. Ask our experts about how you can make a marble countertop last for decades.
• Travertine—Travertine countertops are regaining popularity in Durango. This natural stone is less expensive compared to other stones and comes in a variety of colors, including coral red and pale cream.
• Onyx—If you want a countertop unlike anyone else’s, choose onyx. Another natural stone, onyx is not as durable as granite or quartzite, but it offers unparalleled elegance. Onyx shimmers in the light and will give your kitchen or bathroom a dramatic accent.

Choose From Top-Rated Durable Countertops

Whether you have a large family or simply use your kitchen often, countertops that can withstand wear and tear are a must. Fortunately, the team at Rock Solid Custom Granite can help you choose the best material for your needs. We’re experts in some of the most sought-after natural and engineered stones available today. Reach out to us for a free estimate or to learn more about our products.