Not long ago, if you wanted a certain look for your counters, there were very few choices. Those days are gone. Now you can get the look of ceramic tile from the real thing or from a plastic laminate. Want a granite look? Choose from natural stone, engineered quartz, or solid-surfacing.
Countertops have to withstand the onslaught of water, hot pans, dirty dishes, cleaning solvents, and knife edges, not to mention foods and beverages of every imaginable type. That means they have to resist moisture, melting, scratches, stains, and other threats. Keep in mind, too, that you're not limited to only one countertop material. Splurge for granite on the island or marble on a small section of counter while opting for something more affordable elsewhere.