Make no mistake, granite is gorgeous. There is a good reason home owners began a trend of picking granite counters for their homes as a means of replacing subpar composite counters.

Materials engineering has come a long way, though. No longer are you only stuck with granite as an option. When deciding on how to renovate a home you are going to sell, consider these other options.

Soapstone

Soapstone comes in dark, rich colors and has a matte-like sheen. Unlike many hard counter surfaces, soapstone has a resistance to acids. This fact means that any spilled juices, wines, or coffee are less likely to form ingrained stains on the surface.

What is more, scratches and scrapes can usually be buffed out or etched away. Gouges in hard stone can be permanent, by contrast.

The drawbacks to soapstone are that it must be oiled and buffed at least twice a year. It is also not as heat resistant as granite, meaning you have to take precautions when placing hot kitchen items on your counter.

Glass 

Glass materials have truly come into their own lately. New tempered glasses are far less fragile than their predecessors.

These advances have made the way for beautiful glass countertops in almost any color or pattern imaginable. Glass is also highly heat resistant and non-porous; there is no need to seal, or worry about germs.

As for downsides, glass can chip or crack after a severe impact. It also has a tendency to show fingerprints. Both of these factors make glass countertops less than ideal for homes with young kids.

Quartz

Quartz counters are granite's primary contender. They are harder than granite, more scratch and heat resistant, and they are also non-porous. This latter fact makes it possible to clean quartz with just mild soap and water.

Quartz also is easier to create seamless joints with, and it can be cut in a variety of shapes without weakening the structure. Best of all, quartz has more options for colors and patterns than you could possibly think of.

Concrete

No longer a compromise for those that cannot afford more luxurious materials, concrete has become a hot new trend in the last two years. The material is extremely easy to install. Unlike most other materials, it can be formed into curvaceous shapes. Concrete also needs to be sealed far less frequently than other porous surfaces.

Its only drawback is its heavy weight and its susceptibility to acid-based stains.

No matter what material you choose, your counters should make a statement about your Burnaby real estate property's personality. Home buyers will want a material that catches the eye, but also blends in with the rest of the house.

For more advice on how to add value and appeal to your luxury home, visit our seller's page.