Countertops.(Kitchen, Bath & Laundry: More Style, Less Money)(Buyers guide)

A countertop has to withstand considerable punishment over a long period of time. Fortunately, it's one product where beauty and practicality can coexist.

Falling prices for granite and other tony materials mean that you can now get a custom-look countertop for about what you'd pay for solid surfacing like Corian. You'll also see new products as high-end options hit the mainstream.

Retailers such as Home Depot and Lowe's now offer granite and quartz, also known as engineered stone, for as little as $40 per square foot. But even these luxury materials may not be distinctive enough for some design-conscious homeowners. Concrete, which is made to order, is one way to get a custom look. Another trend, stainless steel, appeals to homeowners who want to integrate their counters with pro-style appliances.

WHAT'S AVAILABLE

Butcher block. Butcher-block countertops are made of hardwoods; maple is the most common, though red oak and teak also are used. A slab of butcher block is useful for chopping and slicing, but it can become marred with everyday use. Butcher block is relatively easy to install and repair. The wood will almost certainly become scratched, nicked, burned, or stained as it's used; fortunately, it can be sanded and resealed. Butcher block should either be treated regularly with mineral oil or beeswax, or be sealed with a varnish suitable for food-preparation surfaces. Wood is vulnerable to fluctuations in humidity, so butcher block is a poor choice for over a dishwasher or near a sink, where it can get wet frequently. Price: $40 to $65 per square foot, installed.

Ceramic tile. Ceramic tile comes in an almost limitless selection of colors, patterns, and styles. A professional or an adept do-it-yourselfer can install it easily. You can use tile to customize a countertop--on a back-splash or island top. Tile set into the counter near the range can serve as a built-in trivet. Glazed tiles are highly resistant to stains, scratches, and burns. And repairs are relatively easy and inexpensive. Grout can be tinted to match or contrast with the tiles, but the joints can trap crumbs and soak up unsightly stains. Cleaning it can be difficult even if the grout is sealed. Tile can be scratched by hard, sharp objects and chip or crack if hit hard enough. Price: $10 to $30 per square foot, installed.

Concrete. This still-exclusive countertop material can be tinted any color and include stone chips. Its exclusivity can be a drawback, however. Since concrete countertops typically are custom-formed by local fabricators, quality can vary. Concrete also cuts and chips easily and must be sealed. While topical sealers resist stains, they were susceptible to damage from hot pots in our tests. The reverse held for penetrating sealers. Concrete countertops are also expensive. Price: $80 to $120 per square foot, installed.