Kitchen & Bathroom Countertop Options: Quartz, Granite, Solid Surface & Laminate
Bernhardt’s Remodeling Center showroom
Choosing the right kitchen countertops or bathroom countertops is one of the most important decisions in any kitchen remodeling or bathroom remodeling project. Your countertops should complement your style, fit your lifestyle, and stay within your budget.
At Bernhardt's Remodeling Center, we help homeowners throughout Rochester, NY, the Finger Lakes, Livingston County, Monroe County, Ontario County, and Steuben County compare countertop materials, explore design options, and select the best surface for their renovation. We offer a wide selection of countertops, backsplashes, shower surrounds, and vanity countertops to complete your project.
Quartz Countertops
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces made from natural quartz combined with durable resins and pigments. This manufacturing process creates beautiful, consistent, and extremely durable kitchen countertops and bathroom countertops.
Benefits of Quartz Countertops
Non-porous surface that resists stains
Does not require sealing
Easy to clean and maintain
Highly resistant to scratches
Helps resist bacteria and mold growth
Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns
Things to consider: Quartz countertops are designed for indoor use. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause discoloration, making them unsuitable for outdoor kitchens.
Granite Countertops
What is Granite?
Granite countertops are made from natural stone formed deep within the earth. Every slab features unique colors, veining, and mineral patterns, making each installation one of a kind.
Benefits of Granite Countertops
Exceptional durability
Excellent heat resistance
Scratch-resistant surface
Unique natural beauty
Available in polished, honed, or leathered finishes
Granite countertops should be sealed periodically to help protect against stains and bacteria.
Because every slab is unique, we encourage homeowners to personally select their granite countertop before fabrication.
Quartz vs. Granite Countertops
Which costs more?
Both quartz countertops and granite countertops offer excellent value. Pricing depends on the material selected, slab availability, edge profiles, thickness, and installation.
In general:
Standard granite countertops may cost less than premium quartz.
Exotic granite can cost more than engineered stone.
Premium quartz countertops may also carry higher pricing.
Our kitchen and bath designers will help you compare options that fit your style and budget.
Solid Surface Countertops
What are Solid Surface Countertops?
Solid surface countertops are engineered materials made from acrylic or polyester resins. They provide a seamless appearance with very little maintenance.
Benefits of Solid Surface Countertops
Non-porous and hygienic
Easy to clean
Seamless installation
Can resemble natural stone
Repairable if scratched
Great for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, and laundry rooms
Which Countertop Material Is Most Durable?
Each countertop material has advantages.
Quartz countertops offer exceptional durability with minimal maintenance.
Granite countertops provide natural beauty and outstanding heat resistance.
Solid surface countertops are repairable and durable for everyday living.
Laminate countertops are affordable and dependable for daily household use.
The best countertop for your home depends on your lifestyle, maintenance preferences, design goals, and budget.
Solid Surface vs. Quartz & Granite
Solid surface countertops are generally more affordable than granite countertops and quartz countertops.
They are also lighter and often less expensive to install, making them an excellent option for homeowners looking for quality kitchen countertops on a budget.
Laminate Countertops
What are Laminate Countertops?
Laminate countertops remain one of the most affordable and versatile countertop options available. Brands like Formica® countertops and Wilsonart® countertops offer hundreds of colors, patterns, and realistic stone-inspired finishes.
Benefits of Laminate Countertops
Budget-friendly
Large selection of colors and patterns
Non-porous surface
Easy to clean
Durable for everyday use
Multiple decorative edge profiles
Things to Consider: Although laminate countertops are durable, they can scratch or burn more easily than stone surfaces. With proper care, they typically last 10 to 20 years, making them an excellent value for many homeowners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countertop is easiest to maintain?
Quartz countertops are the easiest to maintain because they do not require sealing and resist staining.
Which countertop offers the most natural appearance?
Granite countertops provide unmatched natural beauty because every slab is unique.
Which countertop is the most affordable?
Laminate countertops and solid surface countertops are generally the most budget-friendly choices.
Which countertop is best for busy families?
Many homeowners choose quartz countertops because they combine durability, stain resistance, and low maintenance.
Why choose Bernhardt's Remodeling Center?
At Bernhardt's Remodeling Center, we help homeowners throughout Rochester, NY, Monroe County, Livingston County, Ontario County, Steuben County, and the Finger Lakes choose the perfect kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, backsplashes, and custom countertop solutions for their remodeling projects.