Counter tops are easy to mess up, It is best to pay a little more for an experienced shop. For more information on what type of countertops are best visit the countertop material ideas page at the kitchen ideas and guide book

If you get granite it is best to go to one of the big yards in Denver and pick out your slab. The big yards won't sell to individuals so you have to go through a dealer.

I don't like the bigger installer shops in denver. The smaller more local shops are more quality minded. 

Paragon Granite and Marble at 66 and I-25
Colorado Stone Company  in Longmont Colorado
Advantage stone in Longmont


COUNTER TOP MATERIAL GUIDE    1 = worst,  5 = best

Material    l  Toughness  l  Stains  l  Maintenance  l  Colors  l  Natural  l  Affordability  l 

Granite       l        5            l       4      l            4            l        5     l        Y       l            3           l 

 Some manufactured solid surface company links:
Caesar Stone,
Zodiac,
Hanstone,
Corian,
avonite,
Wilson art,

Some Classic Granites For Countertops