what type of kitchen countertop do you prefer?

Granite is overall the best way to go. It is durable, comes in many different colors and patterns from all over the world(well over 100 different kinds/colors), and is best in clean-up and in resell value.

Marble, even if sealed, can still stain and can get small scratch marks in it. Laminate has to be replaced every few years and even Corian can show stains, scratches, cuts.

Right now of course stone (specifically, granite and marble) are all the rage. But personally, I really think it all depends on the style or "look" you are trying to create. If you're after a very traditional look or one that will appeal to the masses, then I would say stick with stone. If, however, you're looking for something different and more contemporary, there are some really cool new products out! You can do stainless steel counter tops, glass, or concrete. If you want to have counter tops that pop with color - check out some of the composite products like "Silestone", which are sort of like a combination of Corian and real stone. Either way, I say take your time making your decision and do lots of research!

It is not so much a preference as it is durability and maintenance. Also it's important to stay on top of what is hot in the market for re-sale purposes. I prefer granite. Marble is quite porous, corian is fine, laminate is out. Most new home builders now offer granite or corian as standard in their homes. Kitchens are important to re-sale so it's best not to skimp and get the most you can afford.

I love marble and granite but they are WAY too expensive. If I had all the money in the world I would go Marble if I was on a budget then laminate. Also laminate comes in about any color and texture you want. Also why not tile. I had a tile countertop in my first house and it was beautiful.

We put in quartz counter tops when we built our new house.. I did alot of research and found this to be the best for cutting, stain and germ resistent.. No seeling required.. About the same cost as corian..Love it!

While marble counter tops are very elegant, they are not the best idea. Reason: small scratches can be made in the counter tops while cutting foods, and if acid from peppers or citrus fruits, for example, then your counter top can erode. It erodes from the acid because marble is a metamorphic rock from limestone which is also eroded by acid.

Personally, I would go with granite because it is strong and durable. (And it doesn't erode like marble.) It can also be very elegant.

one that is easy to clean, resistant to stains and damage, and fits the budget of the remodel.

marble is lovely, but all natural stone can and will stain, and can be difficult to clean if not properly finished.

corian has some qualities that make it attractive (you can "sand" off any stains or scratches, heat resistant) but, it is just as expensive as real stone, so not very practical, and it is limited in color & pattern. not to mention, looks like corian (very "synthetic" finish).

quartz is lovely, stain & scratch resistant, heat resistant, but very expensive. actually looks like a granite, but you can often buy real granite for the same price or less.

laminate is a tried and true finish. easy to clean, inexpensive, comes in virtually unlimited colors/patterns/finishes. you can even get laminate that looks like metal or stone, down to the texture. however, not heat resistant, can be easily scratched/damaged.

Granite - nice and easy to clean , no need for a chopping board either - not as expensive as you think if you go direct to the quarry - loads of different finishes too

I love granite countertops....with and undermounted sink. And when you have a beautiful countertop like that you should keep clutter off of it and keep it clean!

Polished Marble . I have this in my kitchen it looks good, easy to clean.