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16: Choosing Countertops? Here’s What I Got Wrong So You Don’t Make the Same Mistake
Choosing Countertops Without Regret: Why Function Must Come First
If I could save you from one remodeling mistake, this would be it:
👉 Never choose materials based on looks alone.
I’ve been there. Early in my career, I made the mistake of letting aesthetic drive decisions instead of function—and I don’t want that to happen to you.
This episode of Preparing for Your Home Remodel is all about engineered and man-made countertop options and how to choose the right material for your lifestyle, maintenance tolerance, and budget—not just what looks good on Pinterest.
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The Hard Lesson That Changed How I Design
I once specified soapstone countertops for a client because they were beautiful (and they really are).
What I didn’t explain clearly enough?
How easily soapstone scratches
The ongoing maintenance required
What those “natural characteristics” would actually look like in daily life
The result? Disappointment—not because soapstone is bad, but because expectations weren’t aligned.
That’s why I harp on function first. Always.
Function Looks Different for Every Homeowner
There is no “best” countertop—only the best countertop for you.
When choosing materials, I want you to think about:
How much maintenance you’re willing to do
Whether scratches, patina, or wear will bother you
How your kitchen or bathroom is actually used
Your tolerance for heat, staining, and upkeep
Once you know that, the right material becomes much clearer.
Engineered Countertop Options Worth Knowing
Here’s a breakdown of the most common low-maintenance, engineered countertop materials I walk through in the episode:
Quartz
Extremely popular and widely available
Resists most staining
No sealing required
Sensitive to heat because of resin binders
(Hot pans + quartz = potential scorch marks)
🚫 I don’t recommend quartz backsplashes behind gas ranges with open flames.
Dekton (by Cosentino)
Engineered with extreme heat and pressure
No resin = excellent heat resistance
Safe for hot pans and gas range backsplashes
Great option if durability and low maintenance are top priorities
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Porcelain Slabs
Think tile—but without grout lines
Budget-friendlier option
Beautiful stone-like patterns
Thinner material (mitered edges fake thickness)
⚠ More prone to cracking on horizontal surfaces
💡 I often prefer porcelain slabs on shower walls rather than countertops.
Laminate (Yes, Really)
Not your old peeling countertop from the 90s
Modern laminates (like Wilsonart) have come a long way
Budget-friendly and clean
Can be a major upgrade over cracked tile countertops
Butcher Block
Warm, cozy, lived-in feel
Softer material = visible wear over time
Great for islands or accent areas
Best if you like character and patina
The Real Cost Consideration
When comparing countertop options, don’t just look at material cost.
Think about:
Installation labor
Fabrication complexity
Maintenance over time
Repairs or replacement down the road
Low maintenance often saves money long-term, even if upfront costs are higher.
My Best Advice Before You Choose
✔ Drive decisions with function first
✔ Understand how materials age and wear
✔ Ask manufacturers about material makeup and bonding agents
✔ Be honest about your lifestyle—not your dream self
And don’t be afraid to geek out on research. The more informed you are, the fewer regrets you’ll have later.
Want the Full Breakdown?
This post only scratches the surface.
🎧 Listen to the full episode of Preparing for Your Home Remodel to hear my real-world experience, deeper explanations, and what I recommend most often for homeowners who want clarity, confidence, and fewer remodel surprises.
👉 Listen to the full episode now and make smarter countertop decisions before your project starts.
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