Choosing countertops can be exciting, but it may also be a bit overwhelming. If you don’t know which type of countertop is most suitable for your needs, we’re here to guide you. Here’s a brief look at quartz, granite, and stone countertops to help you narrow down your options.
Quartz Countertops
Pros
- Hard and durable- Quartz has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it a durable choice.
- Nonporous- Because quartz is nonporous, it doesn’t need to be sealed.
- Color variety- Quartz countertops have the most color options because pigments can be added to the resins.
Cons
- Lower heat threshold- Quartz is not as good at tolerating heat as other types of countertops.
- Indoor use only- Quartz is best for indoor use since it fades in sunlight.
Granite Countertops
Pros
- Heat resistant- Granite performs well when heat is applied, so you don’t need to worry about long-term damage if you set a hot pan on its surface.
- All natural- Granite countertops are great if you prefer all-natural materials over engineered materials.
Cons
- Porous- Granite countertops are porous, so they may become stained unless you seal and reseal them regularly.
- Susceptible to cracks- Granite may crack more easily due to natural striations in the stone.
Stone Countertops
Pros
- No VOCs- Stone countertops don’t emit harmful volatile organic compounds.
- One of a kind- Because stone countertops are completely natural instead of engineered, they offer a unique appearance.
Cons
- Porous- Stone countertops are porous and must be sealed routinely to prevent spills from causing stains or bacteria growth.
- Visible seams- Stone countertops sometimes have visible seams, which bother some homeowners.
If you need help deciding which countertops are right for you, contact us or visit our showroom.