We offer custom fabrication and installation of granite, marble, limestone, quartz, corian, concrete and other natural stones. Stop by our showroom to view samples of the different products and edging. Read below to learn more about the different options for countertops. Countertop Information
1. Quartz Products (Engineered Stone)
Engineered stone is composed of 93% quartz particles, varies with different manufactures.
It is available in a different range of colors than granite and has a nonporous surface that
resists scratches. It's easy to maintain, without the annual sealing required by natural
stone. Some brands on the market include Caesarstone, Cambria Quartz, and Silestone®.
Pros: Resistant to stain and acid; easy care.
Cons: Expensive.
2. Granite Counters
Granite is the countertop material of choice. It defines elegance in a kitchen. As the use
of granite becomes more widespread, the price comes down. The beauty of the stone
contributes to the beauty of even the most modest kitchen.
Pros: Holds up to heat; comes in a range of almost 3000 colors; looks permanent and
substantial; will last a lifetime; new sealers are almost maintenance-free; 2nd highest
hardness rating after diamonds; has a high value to home buyers.
Cons: Becoming more affordable; requires some maintenance; some stones absorbs stains
if not sealed; knives can become dull if you cut on it; can crack if stressed or improperly
installed.
3. Solid Surface
Because solid surface counters are just what they're called, solid, any scratches can be
sanded out. The countertops are custom-made to your specifications. Some brands on the
market include Corian, Living Stone, and Avonite.
Pros: comes in a rainbow of colors and patterns; seamless
Cons: vulnerable to hot pans and stains which can damage the surface; can be moderately
expensive.
4. Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is durable and easy to clean. Add to that inexpensive, and you've got a really
good choice for countertops for the average home. Because it's installed a section at a time,
it can be done by most resourceful homeowners.
Pros: takes hot pans; easy to clean; wide range of price, color, texture and design.
Cons: counter surface is uneven; tiles can easily chip or crack; grout lines become stained;
custom-designed tiles are very expensive.
5. Laminates
Laminate counters bear trademarks such as Formica and Wilsonart. They're made of
plastic-coated synthetics with a smooth surface that's easy to clean. The pieces are cut to size and finished on the ends.
Pros: you can buy laminates in lots of colors; easy to maintain; durable; inexpensive.
Cons: scratches and chips are almost impossible to repair; seans show; end finishing and
front edge choices can be pricey.
6. Wood or Butcher Block
Wood countertops offer a beautiful warm look and are available in a wide range of colors
and finishes. Hardwoods such as maple and oak are most often used as countertop woods.
Pros: easy to clean; smooth; can be sanded and resealed as needed.
Cons: can be damaged by water and stains over time; scratches must be oiled or sealed
according to manufacturer's instructions.
7. Stainless Steel Counters
For a really contemporary and industrial look for your kitchen, stainless steel is a
good choice. They are heat resistant and durable. Because they're constructed to your
specifications, you can have a seamless countertop.
Pros: takes hot pans; easy to clean.
Cons: Expensive; noisy; may dent; fabrication is expensive; you can't cut on it.
8. Soapstone Counters
Soapstone is generally dark gray in color and has a smooth feel. It is a softer material and
chips easily. It is often seen in historic homes but is also used in modern homes as both a
countertop and sink material.
Pros: rich, deep color; smooth feel; somewhat stain resistant.
Cons: requires regular maintenance with applications of mineral oil; may crack and darken
over time.
9. Marble
Because of its extremely high price tag, marble is not often seen on the countertops of
whole kitchens. To get the luxurious look, use it on an island or inset at a baking center.
Marble requires constant maintenance, as it easily stains. Some new sealers retard staining.
Pros: waterproof; heatproof; beautiful.
Cons: expensive; porous; stains easily unless professionally sealed; can scratch;
Recommend resealing periodically.
10. Concrete Counters
If you have countertops in unusual shapes, concrete may be a good choice. We offer
concrete that has veining, you can choose from a variety of colors and textures. The high
price tag may be beyond most people's budget.
Pros: heat resistant; can be color-tinted; looks exotic and unusual; new treatments
eliminate cracking; additives reduce porosity; new finishes are more decorative.
Cons: mid to high range on cost due to custom work; cracking is possible; can look
somewhat industrial; porous but can be sealed.
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