Granite

Granite kitchen countertops are some of the most durable types of countertop on the market, due to the remarkable strength of the stone. The strength of granite stone is legendary, with some individuals claiming that only diamond is harder. The strength of the stone makes the countertop nearly impervious to scratches, nicks, and cracks and ensures that the countertop will last in excellent condition for many years.

Granite kitchen countertops are also impervious to the many common kitchen tasks that damage many other types of kitchen countertops. A person could cut meat and vegetables directly on the countertop without scoring the top of the countertop, although the process would dull knives relatively quickly. Hot items such as pans and baking dishes can be placed on the countertop without protection between the item and the countertop because the granite used in the countertop is heat resistant to temperatures well above what is generally used for cooking.