If you are planning a kitchen remodel or renovation this year you will want to read my last two posts: Planning a Kitchen Remodel and Kitchen Remodel: Cabinets. This week, I want to focus on choosing your kitchen countertop. After cabinets and labor, the cost of replacing your countertops is the next big bite out of your renovation budget, at 10%. There are several countertop material options, and Consumer Reports offers their review: