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Only a few years ago the only place you would find stainless steel countertops would be in a restaurant. But today both stainless steel and it's more warm and rustic counterpart copper countertops are both popular in the home. So what does each have to offer?

Stainless provides a terrific look to a contemporary kitchen and the nice sleek lines are clean and smart looking and the antibacterial qualities make them the perfect place to prepare food.

The 10.5 percent chromium in stainless makes it resistant to corrosion and the nickel adds to its high temp performance. There are different grades of stainless on the market but for countertops you should use 304 stainless steel which is what is generally used for food prep areas.

Industrial counters are usually made from 12 or 14 gauge steel but home use usually uses 16 gauge. You can have stainless counters built to any shape or dimension. You should not have joints soldered.

Stainless can corrode if it is not properly cared for. Never use harsh products or products that have bleach in them and don't leave acidic products on the counter. To clean use warm water, rinse thoroughly, and dry.

Over time stainless will also age. Deeper dents and scratches can be difficult to remove but If you have a light scratch you can use a non abrasive pad to remove. If your stainless gets too marked up consider having the surface changed from polished to brushed. It's a great way to disguise years of use and abuse.

Stainless-steel counters cost from $50 to $90 a square foot plus installation. And of course you also have the cost of sinks, backsplashes, and cutouts. You or your contractor will need to take the necessary measurements so you know what you need. It's recommended that you have them professionally installed but if you are handy it is a project you might undertake yourself.

Metal countertops are not always stainless steel. In fact for many kitchens stainless just feels to distant or cool. Copper has always been popular for pots and pans and backsplashes and now it is increasingly finding a place in the kitchen counter. While copper countertops may not be mainstream it makes a wonderfully unusual statement and it is certainly warm and appealing. Copper is a much softer metal than stainless steel. Your countertops should be a minimum of .60 thick and .80 is preferred for better performance and strength.

Unlike stainless over time copper countertops change developing a beautiful patina. They shiny copper takes on a beautiful rosy brown color and scratches are considered part of the natural patina so they are not dealt with.

Copper is an excellent antibacterial material and all that's involved in cleaning is soap and water. Maintenance just requires beeswax applied to preserve the finish and help reduce fingerprints.

Copper isn't cheap so countertops are custom quoted. In general estimates usually run around $175 per square foot installed. Copper tends to warp more than stainless and it not recommended that you attempt to install it by yourself.

So which will it be stainless steel or copper countertops? Both will look great!