Get matched with top granite countertop installation pros in Fort Ripley, MN

The least porous countertop material is engineered quartz. Made from a blend of natural quartz and resins, it is non-porous and highly resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria. This makes quartz countertops exceptionally low-maintenance and durable, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms where hygiene and easy upkeep are priorities. Other non-porous options include solid surface materials like Corian, which also offer excellent resistance to moisture and stains.

Engineered stone countertops range in price between $60 and $200 per square foot. The three main types are quartz, recycled glass, and sintered stone. The most affordable is sintered stone, which is ideal for outdoor kitchens and costs $60 to $100 per square foot.

Recycled glass countertops fall in the middle at $65 to $140 per square foot and offer a very distinct look. Meanwhile, quartz counters are on the higher end of the price range at $50 to $200 per square foot. Popular quartz options mimic the look of natural stones like marble and granite.

Corian tends to be slightly cheaper than granite when used in fixtures like kitchen countertops. However, the price difference is fairly negligible and largely depends on the type of granite you choose. Corian can be a budget-friendly and durable choice, plus it doesn’t require as much regular maintenance, which keeps long-term costs down. 

Both marble and quartz are decent kitchen countertop choices for different reasons. Marble provides an elegant look that’s sure to attract eyeballs, which can add value to a home. However, this isn’t the most durable material around and is easily scratched and stained. Quartz may not offer a classic look like marble, but it is available in a wide range of colors and patterns. It’s also durable, with the ability to resist scratches and stains.