What Are the Best Countertops for Kitchens in Minnesota?
When choosing countertops in Minnesota, homeowners want materials that can handle busy households and long-term durability. In the Twin Cities, several materials consistently rise to the top for kitchen, bathrooms, bars, and other home projects.
Here’s a closer look at the most popular countertop materials used throughout Minnesota homes.
Quartz – High Performance
High-Performance Quartz has quickly become the top choice for many Minnesota homeowners. This advanced quartz surface is engineered for exceptional durability and everyday performance.
Key benefits include:
- Non-porous surface that resists stains and bacteria
- Extremely low maintenance — no sealing required
- Strong resistance to scratches and impacts
- Consistent colors and modern design options
Because it performs so well in busy kitchens and bathrooms, High-Performance Quartz is often the first recommendation for families looking for a long-lasting countertop solution. A local brand we trust is Cambria. You can read more about it HERE.
Granite
Granite remains a classic natural stone choice. Each slab is unique, offering natural veining and movement that many homeowners love. Granite is durable and heat-resistant, but it requires sealing to maintain its performance and to prevent staining and etching. Granite does not come with a warranty and can show its age over time.
Quartzite
Quartzite is another natural stone known for its elegant appearance. It often resembles marble but offers greater durability. Like most natural stones, it will require sealing and occasional spot maintenance to prevent staining and etching. Over time, quartzite will show wear from regular use.
Quartz – Generic
Generic quartz countertops are also widely used in Minnesota kitchens. They are readily available and offer endless color options, though they are not manufactured with the same level of performance as High-Performance Quartz products. Often, Generic Quartz will be among the most budget-friendly options, but that comes at a cost, long-term. Quartz slabs that are manufactured with less than 93% natural quartz fall in the generic category, and you can expect pitting, yellowing over time, scuffing, staining, and a limited or no warranty.
Save yourself heartache and do a little research before choosing a brand of quartz. Read Google reviews, research on DECLARE, ask suppliers what is covered by warranty if something happens to your surface, and what is not covered.
Marble
Marble is prized for its timeless beauty and classic veining. However, it is softer and more porous than many other materials, meaning it can scratch, etch, and stain more easily. Marble is often chosen for lower-traffic areas or decorative applications. We do not recommend Marble in Kitchens and Baths, especially since there are so many High-Performance slabs that can give you the same look and feel as natural Marble.
Sintered Stone
Sintered stone is gaining popularity for fireplace surrounds, outdoor kitchens, and shower walls. This ultra-dense surface is manufactured using extreme heat and pressure, creating a material that is highly resistant to heat, UV exposure, and weather. That makes it ideal for exterior projects in Minnesota’s challenging climate, as well as areas with extreme temperature changes like fireplace surrounds. We’re fans of this brand: https://www.neolith.com/us/
Soapstone
Soapstone offers a rich, natural look and develops a distinctive patina over time. It is non-porous and resistant to many stains, though it can scratch easily and requires regular oiling to maintain it. Soapstone quarries are being quarried dry, and quality material is becoming hard to get. There are now High-Performance Quartz options that emulate natural Soapstone. Consider that for a more durable and eco-friendly option.
Choosing the Right Surface for Minnesota Living
While many materials can work in kitchens, homeowners increasingly choose High-Performance Quartz and Sintered Stone for their durability, low maintenance, and ability to handle the demands of modern homes — including indoor and outdoor living spaces.
If you're planning a kitchen upgrade, fireplace surround, or outdoor kitchen project, visiting a showroom can help you compare materials and find the best product for your project.
Homeowners across the Twin Cities can explore these high-performance surfaces at our family-owned showrooms. CLICK HERE to find the showroom nearest you.
Select Surfaces - Now in Plymouth, Roseville, and Woodbury.
Our team specializes in High-Performance Quartz and Sintered Stone solutions designed to perform beautifully in Minnesota homes.
Click HERE to read more about the most popular countertop materials in 2026.