Countertops in Baton Rouge & Lake Charles: Granite, Quartz, Marble & More – A Complete Comparison Guide

Choosing the right kitchen countertop is one of the most important decisions in a remodel or new construction – especially for homeowners and contractors in Baton Rouge and Lake Charles, Louisiana. The countertop isn’t just a work surface; it sets the tone for your kitchen’s style and has to stand up to daily wear and tear. In this guide, we’ll compare all the major countertop types – granite, quartz, quartzite, marble, laminate, butcher block, concrete, and Dekton – with real data on durability, maintenance, popularity, and price. Whether you’re a homeowner planning a dream kitchen in Baton Rouge or a contractor managing a project in Lake Charles, this comprehensive comparison will help you find the perfect countertop material for Louisiana homes.

Local trends show that granite and quartz have been the top choices in recent years. In fact, natural stone (like granite) still makes up about 41% of countertop market value as of 2023, with engineered quartz close behind. But newer options like Dekton and classic budget-friendly materials like laminate also have their place. Below is a quick comparison table to summarize the pros, cons, cost range, and upkeep for each material. We’ll then dive into each type in detail, with tips tailored for the Baton Rouge and Lake Charles area.

Summary Comparison Table: Countertop Materials

(Costs are approximate installed prices in 2024-2025 and can vary by supplier and design details. Maintenance refers to routine care needed to keep the material in good shape.)

As you can see, each countertop material has its own strengths and considerations. Next, we’ll go through each type in detail – what it’s made of, how it holds up in a busy kitchen, typical price ranges in Louisiana, and tips especially relevant for Baton Rouge and Lake Charles homeowners.

Granite Countertops – Natural Beauty & Tough Durability

Granite is a natural stone that has long been a favorite in Louisiana kitchens. It’s mined from quarries in huge slabs, each with unique mineral patterns and colors. If you walk into a home in Baton Rouge or Lake Charles that was remodeled in the last 20 years, there’s a good chance you’ll find granite countertops – they’ve been a go-to choice for their classic elegance and durability.

Durability: Granite is known for being very hard and durable. It can handle the heat of a Cajun gumbo pot with no problem – you can place hot pans on it and granite “barely flinches”. It’s also highly scratch-resistant; you generally won’t scratch granite with knives or utensils (it’s tougher than steel in many cases). With normal use, granite countertops can last for decades (25+ years easily). However, like any stone, the polished surface can chip or crack if something extremely heavy and hard is dropped on it or if it’s hit at an edge. Such instances are rare with proper care and installation.

Maintenance: Granite is porous, which means it has tiny pores that can absorb liquids if left unsealed. For this reason, granite needs to be sealed periodically – usually about once a year in a busy kitchen, or every 1-2 years. Sealing is a simple process of applying a stone sealant that soaks in and helps block those pores. An adequately sealed granite countertop is very stain-resistant. Just be sure to wipe up spills (especially oils or red wine) reasonably soon and clean with mild dish soap or stone cleaner. Day-to-day cleaning is easy: a wipe with soapy water or a stone-safe cleaner is all you need. If you keep up with sealing (which a local Baton Rouge countertop professional like EE Kitchen and Bath can do for you or show you how to do), granite is pretty low-fuss.

Aesthetics & Popularity: Each granite slab is one-of-a-kind – you’ll find beautiful natural variations in color and veining (from earthy browns and golds to blues, grays, and nearly pure white or black). This natural beauty is a big draw. In Baton Rouge, granite is still a “top choice” for homeowners seeking a luxurious and natural look, offering timeless elegance along with its durability. It suits a variety of styles, from traditional Southern kitchens to modern designs, depending on the color/pattern you choose. Granite adds real estate value too – buyers often love seeing granite in a kitchen, considering it a premium feature. In our area, where entertaining and cooking for family is a way of life, granite’s mix of beauty and toughness makes it a popular option for both homeowners and contractors (it’s a safe bet that pleases clients).

Cost: Granite prices can vary widely based on the specific type (common varieties vs. exotic imported stones) and project details. In general, installed granite countertops range from about $75 to $150+ per square foot in Louisiana. Common colors like certain tans or grays might hit the lower end, while rare colors with dramatic patterns (or thicker 3cm slabs) are on the higher end. This cost usually includes fabrication (cutting the slab to fit, edge finishing) and installation. Granite is typically a mid to high-range option in terms of cost – not as pricey as rare marble or quartzite, but more expensive than laminate or basic wood. Many Baton Rouge and Lake Charles homeowners feel the investment is worth it for the durability and premium look.

Pros and Cons Summary – Granite:

• Pros: Authentic natural beauty; very durable against heat and scratches; good for resale value (upgrades your kitchen’s appeal). Each piece is unique. Ideal for those who want a high-end look with solid performance.

• Cons: Requires periodic sealing (easy, but you can’t ignore it). If unsealed, can absorb stains (think cooking oil or wine). Corners or edges could chip if struck by a hard object (but repairs are possible by professionals). Seams will be present if your counter is long or has corners, and while fabricators do a great job matching patterns, you might see the line. Also, granite (being natural) has color variation – you need to pick the exact slab you want. Overall, very few downsides as long as you’re okay with sealing it annually.

Granite remains a trusted choice for many Baton Rouge and Lake Charles kitchen projects. If you love the idea of a natural stone that “checks all the boxes” for durability and style, granite is likely at the top of your list. EE Kitchen and Bath has a wide selection of granite slabs and can help you find one that complements your cabinets and color scheme perfectly.

Quartz Countertops – The Low-Maintenance Champion

Quartz countertops are an engineered stone product that has surged in popularity, now possibly even more popular than granite in many modern Louisiana homes. If you’re looking for a combination of durability and ease of care, quartz is hard to beat. These counters are made from about ~90% natural quartz minerals ground up and fused with 7-10% resins and pigments. The result is a non-porous, extremely hard surface that looks like natural stone but offers exceptional consistency and practically zero maintenance.

Durability: Quartz is extremely durable in terms of everyday wear. Because it’s manufactured under controlled conditions, it doesn’t have the tiny cracks or pores that some natural stones have. It’s resistant to scratches and chips; you generally won’t chip a quartz countertop unless you hit an edge with something very heavy. It’s also completely non-porous, so it won’t stain and doesn’t harbor bacteria – a big plus for kitchens. In a busy Baton Rouge family kitchen, quartz can really handle spills, coloring projects with kids, you name it, without needing special protection. In terms of hardness, quartz (the mineral) is actually a bit harder than granite, and the binders give it a little more flexural strength (meaning it’s slightly less likely to crack than a brittle natural stone).

One caveat: heat resistance. Quartz countertops can discolor or even crack if exposed to high heat directly. The resin component in quartz can only tolerate so much heat – typically around 150°F before it risks damage. That means you should always use trivets or hot pads for things like hot pots, frying pans, or baking sheets right out of the oven. In our Louisiana kitchens, where boiling crawfish pots or cast-iron skillets are common, just remember this rule – no direct off-the-stove pans on quartz. Other than that, quartz is about as tough as it gets for indoor use.

Maintenance: Here’s where quartz really shines. Quartz countertops are essentially maintenance-free. Unlike granite or marble, you never need to seal quartz – its surface is already sealed by the manufacturing process. It doesn’t absorb liquids, so spills won’t seep in. Day-to-day cleanup is just a wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap or any gentle household cleaner. Stains generally sit on the surface and can be wiped away; even things like red wine or coffee usually aren’t an issue if cleaned within a reasonable time (and even dried rings can often be scrubbed off since they can’t penetrate). Because it’s non-porous, quartz is also very hygienic – a plus for home cooks and also attractive to contractors designing clean, modern kitchens. There’s no place for germs to hide, and you don’t have to worry about mold or mildew in the countertop itself. Overall, for homeowners in Baton Rouge and Lake Charles who say “I don’t want to baby my countertops,” quartz is a dream come true.

Aesthetics & Popularity: Quartz is hugely popular right now – in fact, quartz countertops remain the top choice for many Baton Rouge homeowners due to their durability and low maintenance. One reason is the variety of looks available. Since it’s engineered, manufacturers (like Cambria, Silestone, and others) can add pigments and patterns to mimic natural stone or create looks you can’t find in nature. Love the look of marble but not the upkeep? There are quartz designs with realistic marble-like veining that many clients choose over real marble for convenience. Prefer solid colors or something bold? Quartz comes in countless colors – from pure bright whites (very trendy in modern kitchens) to deep blues, greens, even patterns with mirror flecks or natural stone-like speckles. The consistency of pattern in quartz is also a selling point: you can have a large kitchen island without seams and the pattern will be uniform across the whole slab, unlike granite which can vary. For contractors, this predictability makes the material easier to work with when matching multiple slabs in one kitchen.

In terms of style, quartz is versatile: it fits right into a contemporary Lake Charles condo with a sleek solid color top, or a traditional Baton Rouge home with a quartz that looks like white marble. Because it’s man-made, some very unique finishes are available too (matte finishes, textured surfaces, etc., although polished is most common). The popularity of quartz in our area is also driven by the fact that it’s seen as high-end and is often featured in new construction. Many remodeling clients ask for quartz by name these days.

Cost: Quartz tends to be in the same ballpark or a bit more expensive than mid-range granite. For an installed quartz countertop, you’re looking at roughly $80 to $150 per square foot on average. The range is wide because it depends on the brand and design – for example, standard quartz colors (solid colors or simple patterns) might be on the lower end, while premium designer series with dramatic veining (that look like Calacatta marble, for instance) can be on the higher end. Some very basic quartz options could sometimes be found in the $60s per sq ft installed, whereas the fanciest might exceed $150. In Baton Rouge and Lake Charles, quartz is widely available and our team at EE Kitchen and Bath can often find a style to fit different budgets. It’s not a bargain material by any means (laminate or butcher block are much cheaper), but its longevity and no-fuss nature give a lot of bang for the buck. Also, because it’s considered a premium surface, it tends to retain value in your home similar to granite.

Pros and Cons Summary – Quartz:

• Pros: Incredibly low maintenance – no sealing, ever. Highly stain-resistant and hygienic (non-porous). Very durable against scratches and general use. Huge range of colors and patterns (from natural-looking to very artistic). Consistent appearance and available in large slab sizes. It’s a top choice for many homeowners and adds to home value similar to natural stone.

• Cons: Not as heat-resistant as stone – you must be careful with hot items (thermal shock can crack it). Seams (if any) might be visible, though usually low-profile. It can be on the pricier side, especially for high-end designs. Also, since it’s so hard, the countertop edges could chip if struck (similar to granite), but this is uncommon and repairable by a professional. Some people feel an engineered product lacks the “soul” of natural stone, but that’s subjective.

In summary, quartz countertops offer a winning combination of beauty and practicality. They are particularly great for busy households in Baton Rouge that don’t have time for extensive upkeep, or for commercial projects where maintenance needs to be minimal. Contractors appreciate working with quartz because clients love the results. If you want a countertop that you can “set and forget,” quartz should be on your short list. EE Kitchen and Bath sources top-quality quartz brands and can help you pick a design that suits your taste – whether you want that ever-popular white with grey veining, or something bold and unique.

Quartzite Countertops – The Natural Stone That’s Harder Than Granite

Quartzite is an exciting material for those who want a natural stone that has the elegant look of marble but the robustness of granite. Don’t confuse quartzite with quartz – despite the similar name, quartzite is 100% natural (it’s a metamorphic rock originally formed from sandstone and quartz under high heat and pressure in the earth). It has become popular in upscale kitchens, including some stunning installations we’ve seen in Baton Rouge and Lake Charles homes where the homeowner wanted a bright, luxurious stone surface that can handle daily use.

Durability: Quartzite is extremely durable – even more scratch- and heat-resistant than granite in many cases. On the Mohs hardness scale, quartzite is often around 7 (quartz is the main component), whereas granite can be around 6-7. This means you can cut on it (though we don’t recommend using your countertop as a cutting board!) and not worry about scratches; it will also take heat quite well, similar to granite or even better. It’s a rock that was essentially “baked” in the earth, so hot pots or pans won’t scorch it. In terms of resisting chips/cracks: it’s very tough, but like any stone, a forceful impact at an edge could cause a chip – so treat it with the same care you would granite or marble when it comes to not dropping heavy cast iron pans on the corner.

One thing to note: Quartzite is still porous to a degree. It’s not as porous as marble, but not as inherently non-porous as engineered quartz. This means sealing is required to ensure it doesn’t absorb oils or stains. A well-sealed quartzite will resist stains admirably, but if left unsealed or if sealant wears off, substances like red wine or tomato sauce could potentially darken or stain it. The good news is that quartzite’s overall hardness means it doesn’t etch from acids as easily as marble does – you won’t get the dull etch marks from lemon juice that you would on a marble counter. So in terms of chemical durability, it’s better than marble, but still seal it to be safe.

Maintenance: As mentioned, sealing quartzite about once a year is recommended. Many quartzite owners treat it just like granite for maintenance purposes: seal it annually and wipe up strong staining agents relatively promptly. The daily cleaning is the same: mild soap and water, or a pH-neutral stone cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or abrasives which could degrade the sealant or finish. With that minimal routine, quartzite is quite forgiving. One thing to manage expectations: some very light-colored quartzites (often the ones that look like white marble) can still get slight stains or etches if abused, so you do have to care for it, but nothing like the pampering marble needs.

Aesthetics & Popularity: Why do people choose quartzite? It looks like marble – beautiful soft whites, grays, with natural veining – but it has “granite-like guts” in terms of strength. Designers and homeowners love quartzite for its bright, elegant appearance. If you’re after that light, airy kitchen with a big white countertop island that has subtle grey veins, quartzite might be calling your name. There are also quartzites with stunning colors – blues, greens, or bold patterns – each quarry produces different looks. Every slab is unique since it’s natural. In Baton Rouge and Lake Charles high-end renovations, we’ve seen quartzite gaining popularity for those who want the real stone luxury look but also plan to do a lot of cooking or have kids and don’t want to fret over every spill. It’s described as “an excellent choice for those who want a high-end, natural look” with durability for everyday wear.

That said, quartzite is still a premium material and not as ubiquitous as granite or quartz. Not everyone is familiar with it. Part of our role at EE Kitchen and Bath is to educate clients on newer options – and when we show a Baton Rouge homeowner a slab of gorgeous “Taj Mahal” quartzite or “Sea Pearl” quartzite, they often fall in love with it. It offers a kind of beauty that engineered materials try to imitate but many say there’s nothing like the real thing.

Cost: Quartzite is generally on the higher end of the price spectrum. You can expect roughly $90 to $150+ per square foot installed for most quartzites, and some rare ones even more. Our sources indicate a range that can reach up to $250 for very exotic or difficult-to-source quartzites. It tends to be a bit more expensive than standard granite and in the realm of high-end marble. The reasons: it’s harder to cut and polish (which can increase fabrication cost), and it’s often imported from distant quarries. For example, some popular quartzites come from Brazil or India. So, if you’re budgeting, know that choosing quartzite might mean allocating a bit more funds compared to granite or quartz.

Pros and Cons Summary – Quartzite:

• Pros: Best of both worlds for many – luxury marble-like look with granite-like durability. Highly resistant to heat and scratches (you can place hot pans without worry). Each slab is unique and naturally beautiful. Often a conversation piece in a high-end kitchen. Great longevity (with proper care it’ll last for decades). Doesn’t etch from acids as easily as marble.

• Cons: Needs sealing regularly to maintain stain resistance. Still not foolproof against stains if sealant wears off. It’s expensive – a premium material. Limited availability in some patterns/colors; you have fewer choices compared to the infinite options in engineered quartz (nature provides what it provides). Also, due to its hardness, fabrication must be done by experienced pros – always go with a skilled installer (which is something EE Kitchen and Bath prides itself on). Minor con: because it’s so hard, edge profiles might be somewhat limited (intricate edge details can be challenging to cut on such a hard stone, but most modern designs are simple edges anyway).

In summary, quartzite is ideal if you want a natural stone centerpiece for your kitchen that can stand up to real cooking. For Baton Rouge and Lake Charles homeowners who desire that light, sophisticated stone countertop and are willing to invest in quality, quartzite won’t disappoint. We often recommend it as an alternative to marble for clients who say, “I love marble’s look but I’m worried about durability.” With quartzite, you get a similar high-end vibe with less of the worry.

Marble Countertops – Timeless Elegance with a High-Maintenance Side

Marble has an aura of luxury and Old-World charm that few other materials can match. From classic white Carrara marble to dramatic Calacatta with bold veining, marble countertops are truly stunning. In Baton Rouge and Lake Charles, we often see marble used in high-end kitchens, bathrooms, or on statement islands where the homeowner wants that wow factor. However, as beautiful as marble is, it’s important to go in with eyes open: marble requires more care and is softer than most other countertop stones, which makes it prone to scratches and etching.

Durability: Compared to granite or quartzite, marble is a softy. On the hardness scale, marble is around 3-4, which means you can scratch it with something as simple as a knife or even heavy ceramic cookware if dragged across the surface. It’s prone to scratching and chipping if mistreated. Marble also etches – this is a unique issue separate from scratching. Etching is a dull spot that occurs when an acidic substance reacts with the calcium carbonate in marble, basically eating away a tiny bit of the surface. Common kitchen acids like lemon juice, vinegar, tomato sauce, wine, even some cleaners can etch marble quickly if not wiped up. It doesn’t stain the color, but it leaves a hazy or dull spot that you see when it catches the light. Polished marble will show etches as dull, matte spots; honed marble (matte finish) can hide them a bit better, but they still happen.

Marble is also porous, more so than granite. That means it can absorb liquids and stain. For example, a bit of red wine or coffee left to sit could seep in and leave a permanent tint. Because of this, staining is a concern and why sealing marble is critical (more on that next). Heat-wise, marble is actually pretty good: you can put a hot pot on marble and it won’t scorch or crack from heat alone (it was formed by heat and pressure eons ago, after all). Bakers love marble because it stays naturally cool – great for rolling pastry dough. So no issue with normal hot pans. The main threats to marble are scratches, etches, and stains.

Maintenance: Marble is somewhat infamous for being high-maintenance. To keep it looking its best, you have to seal it very regularly – experts often say every 3 to 6 months for kitchen marble countertops. Some marble owners even seal as often as every few months, especially the first year, to get the stone “saturated” with sealant. Sealing doesn’t prevent etching (nothing can except avoiding contact with acids), but it does help prevent stains by filling the pores.

Even with sealing, you’ll want to be diligent about wiping up anything that could stain – oils, wine, brightly colored foods like curry or berries. Use coasters under oily bottles or citrus drinks. Day-to-day, use a pH-neutral cleaner or just mild dish soap and water. Never use vinegar or bleach on marble (it will etch). Also, it’s wise to treat marble like a “no cutting” zone – always use cutting boards, and avoid sliding heavy pots or appliances around on it, because it can scratch. If you do scratch or etch it, the good news is marble can be refinished by a professional – they can polish out etches and scratches in many cases, restoring the shine. But that’s an extra cost down the road.

Some people actually like the patina of an aging marble – tiny scratches, etch marks, etc., can give it a lived-in, antique character (think of old marble countertops in historic New Orleans homes or Europe). Others want it pristine. So knowing your personality is key; as one source humorously put it, “Know your personality before swiping the credit card” for marble. If you’re the type to fret over every mark, marble might stress you out. If you’re more relaxed and think of the wear as “character,” you might manage fine.

Aesthetics & Popularity: There’s no denying marble is gorgeous. In a Baton Rouge luxury home or a Lake Charles estate kitchen, marble on an island or as the main countertop immediately telegraphs elegance and high-end taste. The light colors and dramatic veins of stones like Calacatta or Statuario marble are often imitated but never perfectly duplicated by man-made materials. Marble has a translucence and depth to it that seems to glow. It pairs wonderfully with classic white kitchens, and equally well as an upscale accent in modern designs.

That said, due to the maintenance, many homeowners shy away from doing their entire kitchen in marble. We more commonly see marble used in specific areas: a baking station, a centerpiece island, or in bathrooms (where spills are less damaging than a kitchen). In our region, some clients opt for marble in less-used kitchens or showpiece kitchens, whereas in high-traffic family kitchens, they might lean towards quartz or granite instead for peace of mind. Marble is highly popular in luxury and high-end homes where the look is a top priority. It’s often considered a premium, aspirational material. If you’re a contractor building a high-end custom home in Baton Rouge, you might use marble to wow in the master bath vanity or a bar top even if the kitchen is quartz – it’s that kind of strategic use.

Cost: Marble can range from relatively affordable to very expensive, depending on the type. You might find a common marble like Carrara in the $75-$100 per sq ft installed (sometimes even a bit less for prefabricated pieces), whereas exotic marbles can run $150-$250+ per sq ftdeslaurier.comjsbhomesolutions.com. On average, sources put marble around $80-$250 per square foot. The variation is huge because “marble” isn’t one thing – it includes everything from domestic Carrara (whitish with gray veins, abundant in Italy) to Calacatta Gold (Italian, bold veins, quite pricey) to local or other country marbles. Don’t forget to factor in the maintenance cost: sealing regularly (you can DIY that cheaply, though) and potential repolishing or repair down the line. Still, for many, the allure of marble is worth the cost and care.

Pros and Cons Summary – Marble:

• Pros: Undeniable beauty and luxury appeal – a classic material that can instantly elevate your kitchen’s design. Each slab is a work of art by nature. Marble stays cool for baking and is heat-resistant for normal kitchen use. High-end marbles are a status symbol and can impress in the real estate market (though some practical buyers might be wary of it). If well-maintained, it’s the showstopper of countertops.

• Cons: High maintenance and delicate. Requires sealing every few months for best protection. Easily scratched and etched by common household items – you have to be careful and accept that a pristine polished surface may not remain pristine if you actually use it. Stains can occur if not vigilant. It’s expensive, especially for rare varieties and thicker slabs. Not ideal for heavy-use kitchens unless the homeowner is committed to care or okay with patina.

In summary, marble countertops are like a luxury sports car – breathtaking and head-turning, but requiring more care and maintenance than your standard sedan. We often counsel our Baton Rouge and Lake Charles clients: if you absolutely love marble (and many people do, for good reason), consider your lifestyle. You can also consider doing a smaller area in marble (like an island or a baking counter) and use something like quartz or granite for the rest. If you do go for marble, EE Kitchen and Bath will ensure you understand how to take care of it, and we’ll apply a high-quality sealant upon installation. The decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities – for those who cherish that classic look and are willing to pamper their countertops a bit, marble can be immensely rewarding.