In the market for a new countertop surface and don't know where to start? You're in the right place! Replacing your countertops is an easy way to change the whole look of your kitchen without going through a full kitchen remodel. If you're thinking about replacing your tops or doing a full remodel and are wondering how you will select a material, here is some information about the different types of countertops available to help!
Quartz - $$-$$$ You may have seen this type of top on your favorite HGTV show or know someone who has used it since this surface has majorly been on the rise in the last few years. Quartz is an engineered countertop made from ground-up particles of stone bound with resin. Most brands are manufactured using 95 percent ground natural quartz and 5 percent polymer resins. Customers are going to see a lot more consistency in color and across slabs with quartz because it is engineered and the manufacturer has full control of the colors and patterns they make available.
Quartz is fantastic for homeowners who don't want to have to deal with maintenance on their tops. You’ll still want to clean any spills on your quartz tops using soap and water or other approved cleaner, but that’s about it in terms of maintenance. The nonporous surface means that you don't have to seal your countertops as you do with granite.
The engineering process to create quartz makes it harder than granite and actually, more durable. The nonporous surface makes the tops easier to keep bacteria-free and clean. You still need to protect your countertops from excessive heat. The resin can burn if you're not careful and leave a spot behind. Always use heat pads when cooking to protect your investment. Most resources say that quartz should be protected at temperatures over 150 degrees.
Granite - $-$$$
Granite is a 100 percent natural surface and a very hard stone that is mined from quarries all around the world. Because it is a natural surface, you'll find lots of movement and color variation that brings its own beauty into your space. Granite pricing varies quite a bit from entry level colors, to more expensive exotic colors that are sure to wow you. We always recommend our customers go to the granite warehouses to pick out their slabs since color can vary slightly between pieces.
Your granite should be cleaned every day using a mild household cleaner or soap and water. Do your homework before your granite is installed because some oils/acids can stain your tops. Our granite fabricators recommend resealing your countertops once a year to protect your investment and increase its longevity.
The durable nature of granite makes it more resistant to heat than quartz. Granite may be able to handle temperatures up to 480 degrees with no damage. However we still always recommend protecting your countertops from heat damage by using hot pads while cooking. Drastic changes in temperature from cold to hot can lead to cracking or color changes. The porous texture of granite also could allow staining or etching if the tops aren't properly sealed.
Conclusion:
Granite and quartz are both beautiful options for your home and have a lot to offer depending on your lifestyle. If you're interested in visiting our GW Smith Kitchen Studio and speaking to one of our knowledgeable kitchen designers about what might be the best option for you, we'd love to help you out! Contact us today to set up your appointment: 336-249-4941.
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