Home Renovation Tips: Granite vs. Quartz vs. Solid Surface
One of the big items people need to consider as they plan their renovations is the materials they're going to use. Kitchen countertops are a major focal point and need to withstand a lot of wear and tear, so choosing the right material for them is especially important.
While there are SO many different materials to consider, we thought we'd shine the spotlight on three of the most popular countertop materials and go over some of their pros and cons.
Granite
Granite, which is quarried directly from the earth, has been a staple in kitchens for a while now. People love the look and feel of granite countertops, and there is a lot to love. Of course, some of the pros could be considered cons, depending on your point of view.
Pros:
All-natural stone, just the way Mother Nature intended
No two slabs look alike, so what you're getting will truly be one-of-a-kind
Strong and durable, so it's built to last
Cons:
No two slabs look alike -- this can be an issue if you fall in love with a sample at your local kitchen and bath store, but you end up with a piece that looks quite different
Porous stone, so it requires sealing in order to prevent the harboring of germs and bacteria
Can't hide seams
Quartz
Quartz has been gaining traction in recent years and has been adopted by many homeowners as a lower-maintenance alternative to granite . Quartz is a combination of crushed quartz crystals, resin, and pigment.
Pros:
Non-porous, so it is 100% hygienic and doesn't require sealing
Color consistent -- what you see in the store is what you can expect to get in your home
Strong and durable
Cons:
Colors can fade over time when exposed to direct sunlight
Can't hide seams
Solid Surface
DuPont created the first Solid Surface brand, Corian, decades ago, but now you can find many manufacturers of this material, which is a combination of acrylic and color pigment.
Pros:
Non-porous material, so it's hygienic and doesn't require sealing
Easier to fabricate custom designs
Say goodbye to seams
Cons:
100% man-made material (which can be considered a con for those folks who appreciate 100% natural)
Not scratch resistant
Choosing a countertop material is a personal choice. Get something you love and that fits in well with your lifestyle. And, of course, if you or someone you know is thinking about a kitchen renovation, we hope you contact us.