COUNTERTOP COMPARISON

Countertops come in a wide variety of styles and materials; it is often difficult for a consumer to know what is right for their particular situation. For durability, there is granite and natural stone. For the widest variety of colors, laminates offer the most choices. And for sheer flexibility, solid surfaces are ideal for fashioning decorative shapes or integral sinks.

Preston Woodworking supplies and fabricates all of these materials with an extensive array of backsplash and edging options. The best way to visualize and understand these features is to visit our showroom where our professional consultants will courteously demonstrate the various distinctions and answer your questions. If that’s not possible, the following information and guide should help answer many of your questions.

Granite

Granite is natural stone. It is the most durable of all countertop materials and is chip and scratch resistant. Because it is porous, it does require a special sealant but this could range from as often as once per year to as seldom as every fifteen years, depending on the type of sealant.

Granite is available in polished and matte finishes. While it may be more expensive than most other materials, its popularity and availability has driven costs down in recent years. Further, its longevity adds value.

• Advantages: Natural beauty unmatched by any other product. It’s durable, and comes in a wide selection of colors. Sinks can be under-mounted and its surface can handle hot pots and as well as resist most stains if properly sealed.
• Disadvantages: It’s relatively expensive. Although durable, it can be scratched and watermarks can form if not cleaned up immediately or properly sealed. Seams are evident, especially in clear patterns.

Quartz

Quartz is ideal for homeowners who want the beautiful look of natural stone, but without a porous surface. It is low maintenance, hygienic and has a consistent surface.

• Advantages: Quartz is scratch-resistant and hard to stain. It is very durable and does not require sealing.
• Disadvantages: It can be expensive and may be too uniform in looks and has visible seams. Integrated sinks are not available with quartz, as with solid surfacing.

Solid Surface

Solid surfaces are made of solid synthetic sheets formed by mixing a mineral compound with polyester and/or acrylic resins. The countertop is smooth and uniform throughout and you can get the look of stone without the seams or potential color variations. Chips and scratches can be easily repaired and it is flexible enough to form decorative shapes and an integral sink. It will stain, but spots can be scrubbed out.

• Advantages: The non-porous material is hard to stain and can be made in nearly every size and shape without seams. Abrasive cleaners can be used on unpolished surfaces and scratches and burns can usually be repaired.
• Disadvantages: The finish dulls over time and may need to be rebuffed. The surface has the potential to melt or crack if hot pans are placed on them. Although scratches can usually be repaired, the surface can scratch easily.

Laminates

Laminates are the most common kitchen countertops. They are made of a thin layer of synthetic plastic and glued to particleboard or wood. Laminates can simulate many different materials, including granite. The edge of the countertop can be square or rolled. Wood, brass and other inserts can also be added. It is the most economical countertop but doesn’t have the lasting power of stone.

• Advantages: Low cost and easy maintenance. It is produced in hundreds of colors and patterns and a variety of finishes. Some designs replicate the look of stone and solid surfaces providing a desired look at an affordable price. It is fairly durable and resists staining.
• Disadvantages: The surface can be damaged by hot pans and knives and long-term moisture can cause the laminate layers to separate. It is difficult to repair chips, scratches easily, and can’t be cleaned with abrasives.

Laminate Edge Profiles