Countertops are subject to constant and hard usage. So, you should be wise in choosing the best countertop material if you are planning to have one in your kitchen. Keep in mind that the material for your countertop must have excellent performance, providing heat resistance and boosting resale value.
If you’re in the market looking for one, you will encounter a solid surface countertop and a quartz countertop material. Some say that solid surface and quartz are the best material you can have for a countertop. But, as a homeowner, you should know which one is better so you can have a countertop that can last you a long time.
To help you make an informed decision, here are the things you should know about solid surface countertops and quartz countertops.
What Is a Solid Surface Countertop?
A solid surface countertop has been widely popular since 1967. The material is made of mineral dust (mostly marble) mixed with various resins and pigments. If you look at solid surface countertops, you can see that it kind of looks like a stone, but it’s a different story upon closer look.
The best thing about solid countertops is that they can be easily fabricated, and you can create invisibly seamed countertops. If you are not interested in laminate countertops, a solid surface is a perfect alternative because it’s a decided improvement.
However, if you want something that looks like granite particles, a solid surface countertop may not be the best choice. It’s also not ideal if you want to have all-natural products because it’s composed of many materials that are not purely natural.
What Is a Quartz Countertop?
A quartz countertop is more modern than a solid surface countertop. It consists of stone products of about 95% ground natural quartz and 5% of binding resins. Compared to laminate, wood, and tile countertops, quartz is more in the higher-end.
If we take a closer look at quartz countertops’ composition, 5-10% of its binding resins are either polymeric or cement-based. The other 90-95%, on the other hand, is composed of hard, stone-like industrial waste products like marble, quartz, glass, and mirrors.
Is It Possible to DIY Their Installation?
While it is possible, do-it-yourself installation of solid surface and quartz countertops can be challenging. However, if you weigh the two, solid surfaces are more manageable to install as long as you have the materials for cutting and seaming. On the other hand, quartz needs special tools that can be difficult to use.
Which Is More Heat-Resistant?
While solid surface countertops rarely give in to heat, quartz countertops provide higher heat resistance than solid surfaces. After being exposed to scorching heat, solid surface materials must be sanded out and repolished to remove the stains. On the other hand, quartz doesn’t need one because it can manage and survive extreme heat temperatures.
Conclusion
After knowing these pieces of information, you can now choose which countertop material can provide you with longer-lasting results and optimum performance. It’s crucial to know these important details so that you won’t regret your buying decision. But, if you’re not confident to choose and unsure which among the two materials is suited for your kitchen, better to call for a professional who can guide you.
If you are looking for contractors who can help you with your countertops, Cutstone Company is here to help! Our experts can provide you with the best countertops in Birmingham, AL. They have been trained to maneuver and design stone surfaces that catch consumers’ eyes without breaking their budget. Get in touch with us today!
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