Polymer based countertops are typically more lightweight than stone. That means they may be designed to look like stone, but can often be transported at a lower cost and installed without additional bracing.
Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of dust, dirt, grease and oils. Such buildup can stain the finish and change the entire look of the granite.
Did you know that quartz counters are produced by combining 93 percent natural stone quartz with 7 percent resin binder and some colorant? This results in an extremely hard countertop that is the same working thickness as other materials but much stronger.
Did you know that granite is the oldest of all earth-made igneous rock? Granite is strong and sturdy, as well as durable, adding a timeless and beautiful in the kitchen, bathroom, and elsewhere, and thereby instantly adding value to the home.
Solid surface materials look like stone because they contain natural minerals combined with a durable polymer binder. Highly refined binding agents help make the finished product strong, easy care and durable.
Consider lighting when deciding what color will look best. Dark granite in a dark room can be overwhelming unless it’s offset with lightly colored cabinets.
Perhaps the single biggest issue with using a natural stone like granite in your kitchen is that its porous nature can make it more difficult to maintain proper food safety. Since quartz countertops aren’t porous, they may help you maintain a cleaner, safer kitchen for your family.
Slab granite countertops are both elegant and durable. Here, the stone comes in heavy, custom-cut “chunks” that can be cut to corresponding dimensions, shapes, and widths to create a wide range of styles and visual effects.
Non-porous is important. By presenting a non-porous surface, solid surface countertops are more resistant to bacteria because they are easier to clean.
Most granite products are highly polished to bring out the natural dimensionality of the stone. To keep that finish smooth and bright, avoid subjecting granite to harsh solvents. Most cleanups can be accomplished with a gentle soap and warm water.
One type of solid surface countertop is acrylic, which is basically a petroleum based composite composed of an acrylic polymer and bauxite. This type of solid surface is seamless and nonporous, and resists damage better than petroleum countertops.
Although a granite countertop is an investment, it isn't the most expensive popular choice on the market. Quartz and stainless steel are both usually more expensive options. Some acrylic resin products may be comparably priced as well.
Quartz countertops emulate the veining, mottling, and shading caused by different minerals found in natural stone. For example, black shades are the result of carbon impurities, red and yellow comes from iron oxides, and green tones are produced by mica and talc.
By definition, granite is made up of at least 20 percent quartz by volume. In addition to being a hard mineral, quartz is also known for its crystallized structure. This means your granite countertop has tiny crystals, which give it a rich luster.
One of the benefits of solid surface countertops is that they allow for invisible joints, which can be an important design consideration. This means that other than the normal delineation of sink and countertop, there are no visible seams.
Did you know that granite is one of the hardest substances on the planet? While the processed granite slabs that eventually make their way into your home are softer, naturally found granite usually has a hardness of around 7 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, 10 being the highest rating.
Which is more likely to stain, a granite countertop or a solid surface countertop? Granite is somewhat porous, which makes it more prone to staining and bacteria buildup than a polymer based solid surface material.
One characteristic that makes natural stone so appealing in home design is its uniqueness. No two slabs of granite, marble, or any other stone are exactly alike. Clever designers can take advantage of these distinctive differences to produce truly remarkable countertops, floors, and other natural stone products.
Are you concerned that the natural variations in granite will make the large slab going in your kitchen a far cry from the pattern of the sample you fell in love with? Remember, choosing quartz over granite can help you ensure you’re getting the exact look you want.
Your countertops have to be able to take a lot of abuse, whether it's from heavy pots, hot pans, or sharp knives. Fortunately, granite is one of the most durable rocks out there, which means it can stand up to a lot of punishment.
Even small kitchens need love. We can transform your kitchen too. New cabinets with doors, lazy susan, soft close, easy glide drawers. Cubbies for special items. New quartz counters and back splash.
Bring in your measurements and dreams. Let us make them come true
Tired of looking at the same kitchen through the lock down days? Now is the perfect time to do an uplift. Whether it is just countertops or all new cabinets and counters, we can help find the look you love. Come see us today.
