Quartz is one of nature's hardest minerals. Engineered into stone, using 93% crushed Quartz combined with high-quality polymer resins and pigment, compacted under intense vibration, vacuum and pressure into dense, non-porous slabs, it takes on characteristics that make it an ideal material for kitchen countertops and bathroom vanities.The new Quartz resists stains, scratches, chipping and cracking, mold and mildew, heat and burns, chemicals, acids and solvents. It's even immune to freezing and thawing.
Granite is the most popular natural stone and countertop material due to it's versatility and superior performance characteristics. granite's innate ability to withstand constant abuse will impress you. A granite countertop is nearly impossible to scratch (you can cut your veggies, etc. on it if you don't mind dulling your knives), hot pots won't hurt it, bacteria and stains are not a problem under normal use and proper cleaning. granite is naturally porous and thus susceptible to staining, however with simple care & maintenance it's hardly a concern and certainly not the problem or hassle that some in the industry would have you believe.
Marble Counter Tops: Classic Luxury with Modern Style. It's softer than granite, so it needs to be sealed more often - usually twice a year. However, if you are a baker, a marble countertop is almost de riguer. It's unparalleled in its ability to maintain a cool temperature even when you are working on it. Like granite, marble is very resistant to heat. Another way that it's similar to granite is in price - but expect to pay even more for marble.
Laminate Laminate is a low cost and usually temporary solution. It is very common and most homes will always start out with a laminate countertop in their kitchen. Laminate has hundreds of different color patterns and is easy to clean. Its downside is that it has a low durability, easy to dent, scratch, impossible to fix, can burn from heat and has a standard bull-nose edge profile. The underside of laminate is particle board and if water enters the joints the laminate will bubble up and have to be replaced. If properly cared for laminate counters can last for many years..
Cultured Marble Used for bathroom vanities only. Cultured Marble is a manufactured countertop made with marble dust and resin to create a 1-piece unit. Has a quality appearance and lower cost than granite. |