From prepping food and dining to serving your family and friends, your kitchen countertops are an important part of your home and daily life. Therefore, making sure you have a durable and appealing surface is imperative, especially if you want the custom countertops to stand the test of time. While granite is the most common material, other options are available. If you want to think outside the box and choose a countertop other than granite, here are a few unique materials to consider.

Quartz

Quartz is becoming a popular option because it is actually considered more resilient than granite.

Since granite is a natural stone, it is porous and needs to be sealed to prevent food buildup and stains. Quartz, on the other hand, is made of 93 percent natural stone and 7 percent resin binders, creating a durable, non-porous surface.

Quartz is also available in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find a look that easily complements your kitchen cabinets and décor.

Wood

Wood is also a unique option to consider when choosing new countertops. Constructed out of durable hardwoods, such as oak, maple, cherry, or teak, that are stacked together, wood countertops can be a sturdy and effective surface for your kitchen.

Other than the rustic appeal that wood adds to your kitchen, wood countertops offer other benefits, too.

If the wood is ever damaged, it can be repaired easily with wood filler in most cases. If granite is damaged, repairing the countertop will not be possible – you would have to replace the entire countertop or at least a section of the granite.

Wood countertops are also hygienic, which may surprise you. Most woods have a natural resistance to bacteria. As long as they properly cleaned and maintained, you do not have to worry about contamination when prepping food or eating on your wood countertops.

Finally, wood can be stained in a variety of finishes. Whether you want to match the wood to your floors or cabinets or you want your countertops to stand out from the rest of the home with a more unique stain, the possibilities are endless.

Soapstone

If quartz and wood are not options you find appealing, but you still want something different than granite, consider soapstone.

Soapstone is another durable material that is usually grey in color and has a marbled design that works well in most kitchen designs. One of the greatest benefits of soapstone is it is resistant to stains and bacteria.