QUARTZ VS. GRANITE: WHICH ONE IS BEST FOR YOUR KITCHEN COUNTERTOP?

QUARTZ VS. GRANITE: WHICH ONE IS BEST FOR YOUR KITCHEN COUNTERTOP?

Remodeling your kitchen is exciting, but also presents you with a variety of difficult choices. After all, the choice you make is one you will have to live with for quite some time. One choice that homeowners find very challenging is that of selecting the right material for kitchen countertops. The two choices that often compete very closely are quartz and granite.

DECIDING BETWEEN QUARTZ AND GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

You know both countertop materials are attractive, and you may have even found colours and styles you like that suit the overall design of your kitchen, but you still need to decide between the two. Granite is quarried directly from the earth in a large single chunk. It is a natural stone that can be cut into slabs later. Quartz, on the other hand, is crushed and mixed with resin at the ratio of 93 percent quartz to seven percent resin. It is then manufactured to create a variety of colours and patterns.

To compare these two stone surfaces adequately, you need to consider the following:

Stain Resistance – Quartz is one of the only stone surfaces that is stain resistant and does not require sealing to be resistant. It repels wine, oil, coffee and even makeup spills with ease. Granite, on the other hand, is porous and can stain, especially if it is not sealed properly and regularly according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Safety – Your kitchen countertops will obviously be exposed to food and other consumables on a daily basis. Quartz is non-porous, which means it is easier to keep clean and more resistant to bacteria. Granite can absorb food-borne pathogens and the small fissures and spaces can easily harbour bacteria.

Aesthetics – Both countertop types are attractive and it is personal preference as to which looks better in your kitchen. Engineered stones can sometimes have more consistent patterns, while with granite the material is formed naturally and may show more variations in the surface.

Cost – Every home improvement project has a budget. Granite has become more affordable over the past few years and the prices are remaining consistent. Quartz prices can vary, costing more than granite at times or less. When it comes to the overall care costs, quartz will ultimately cost less than granite in the long run.

The best way to decide which countertop surface is right for your kitchen is to visit a showroom and see the varieties and colours in person for yourself. PF Custom Countertops invites you to see our showroom and see our quartz and granite countertops for Sherwood Park, St. Alberta and Edmonton residents in person.

Call us toll-free at 888-484-0831 or contact us online to learn more about our granite and quartz countertops in Edmonton or to request a quote.July 28, 2019

MAINTAINING A LAMINATE COUNTERTOP

The laminate countertop options in Edmonton are diverse and come in a variety of colours and styles. These days, these non-stone surfaces can resemble real stone and can be extremely durable; only as long as they are properly cared for. It is important to know how to clean, maintain and even remove stains so that you can have the look of high-end countertops without the cost.

HOW TO CLEAN A LAMINATE COUNTERTOP

Your countertops should be cleaned daily using a soft-material cloth. This helps remove dust and dirt and protects the finish. Avoid using harsh bleach cleansers or scouring agents as these can remove the shiny finish of the laminate. Instead, stick to an all-purpose cleaner and degreasing agent.

While not prone to staining, in the event that you do find that some staining occurs on your laminate countertop surface, the process for removing the stain is quite simple. For heavy stains, you can use a baking soda paste made from three parts baking soda and one part water. Spread the paste evenly over the stain and allow it to sit for at least five minutes. Then, wipe it away gently without scrubbing.

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING A LAMINATE SURFACE

Most homeowners assume that laminate does not last as long as other real stone countertops, but often this limited lifespan is due to poor maintenance. To keep your laminate countertops looking beautiful, follow these easy tips:

Avoid dropping heavy items onto the surface. While laminate is durable, heavy objects can easily crack or damage the surface.

Never use a cutting blade on the countertop surface as this can chip or scour the surface.

When cleaning, avoid using heavy amounts of water on your countertops. While they are sealed, exposure to excess water can allow it to seep under the seams and create a bulging or deformed surface.

Harsh chemicals should never be used on laminate, especially those containing lye or acidic elements.

While heat-resistant, a laminate counter can become scorched or burned. Never place hot objects directly onto the surface of your counter; instead, use a hotplate or pad.

When cleaning, you can use a soft short-bristled brush to loosen dirt or stains, but never use a scouring pad or steel wool to clean the counter.

PF Custom Countertops carries the largest selection of laminate countertops in Edmonton. Come to our showroom and see our extensive selection of colours, style and finishes that mimic real stone, but made from affordable, beautiful laminate. We carry Formica®, Wilsonart® and all of the major laminate brands in our lineup.

Call us toll-free at 888-484-0831 or contact us online to learn more about our laminate countertop products and all the options available for your kitchen.

Pf Custom

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