Frequently Asked Questions About New Countertops
Looking for a new countertop is a big step for your kitchen. At All in One Design Build, we understand that means asking as many questions as it takes to ensure your dream kitchen becomes a reality. To get you started on the right path, below are a set of countertop FAQs to consider asking before you begin your kitchen renovations.
Q. What Is the Best Material for Kitchen Countertops?
For a countertop that can withstand anything you can throw at it literally, quartz countertops are the way to go. From kids’ splattering science projects to hefty appliances dropping onto the surface, quartz’s durability and anti-staining properties protect it from everyday wear.
Quartz is one of the most resistant minerals mineable. Because it is non-absorbent and tightly compressed for a poreless effect, water damage and germ growth are not a concern.
Q. What Are the Downsides of Using Quartz?
The primary downside of a quartz countertop is its lack of heat resistance. While you can use the bare surface lightly as a cutting board, you shouldn’t place hot pots, heating lamps, toaster ovens, and other scorching items directly on the countertop. Doing so can damage the surface or edges of the quartz slab.
Another conflict is with the high sales price. Low-grade granite can start at $50 and high-grade granite can range up to $150 per square foot. However, if you decide to choose from its wide selection of colors and patterns, you’ll enjoy this solid natural stone countertop for decades.
Q. What Is the Next Best Type of Countertop?
While quartz is one of the sturdiest materials for a kitchen countertop, granite doesn’t fall too far behind. Between its quartz-like strength and unique beauty, granite easily becomes the highlight of any kitchen decor.
Each granite slab has a unique veining, creating a different design in every home. What’s more, unlike most other countertop materials, granite captivates residents and visitors alike with specks of gold and silver. That visual aspect makes granite the perfect choice for high-profile countertops, including bars and public counters.
Unlike quartz, granite has higher heat resistance, making it ideal for hotter spaces such as near the stove. Still, it’s slightly cheaper than quartz. On average, the lowest grade level of granite can range up to $50 per square foot, while the highest level five granite can reach up to $100 per square foot, still falling below the higher price range of quartz.
Q. What Are the Downsides of Purchasing Granite?
Although granite may sound just as good as quartz, be aware of the maintenance requirements before purchasing a slab. While quartz requires nothing more than a simple wiping down with soapy water and a cloth, you’ll need to seal granite countertops at least once a year to ensure they remain stain-proof and damage-proof from constant use.
It’s also important to understand granite doesn’t come in as many colors as quartz or other natural stones. Black, blue, red, and white are the main colors available to buyers.
Furthermore, be warned that a specific slab that you fall in love with at a showroom is not going to be the exact one you receive. Your given slab will have more, less, or different veining designs, which can change the overall look. Still, each piece is guaranteed to bring a flare of elegance and creativeness to your cooking space.
Q. What Other Materials Make Up Countertops?
Many other materials can be used to make countertops, including:
Marble: Natural color, veining, and specks show through the glossy surface of the slab. However, marble is softer, making it more prone to markings, and it’s porous, requiring sealing to keep it from staining.
Quartzite: With the look of marble and the strength of quartz, quartzite is durable and aesthetically pleasing. However, contrary to quartz, quartzite needs sealing to protect it from scratches and high heat.
Porcelain: Unlike most stones, porcelain is heat-resistant, stain-resistant, and poreless. Porcelain countertops include materials like silica, mineral oxide, and kaolinite. Its only weakness includes utensil scratches that can chip away at the light design that doesn’t reach deeper than the slab’s surface.
Soapstone: Although a cheaper and less durable substitute for granite, these white or gray colored slabs can contribute to a modern or classic look in your abode. They’re also easy to clean and don’t need sealing to keep them looking new.
Synthetic stones: These cheaper stones are a mix of polyester and acrylic material that come in more designs and colors than natural stones. However, they’re not as durable as real stones and are more prone to scratches and other damage.
Your questions shouldn’t stop here. For more answers to popular countertop FAQs or to schedule a design consultation, please contact All in One Design Build at 517-552-5985 today!
All in One Design Build
Michigan’s #1 Choice
4286 E Grand River Rd,
Howell, MI 48843
