Questions rise when homeowners are deciding on what material to use for the kitchen and bathroom countertops. Here are some pros and cons for 3 most popular material.
Here are some tips on Porcelain Countertops:
1) They are new to the market; Therefore, not many fabricators have enough experience to work with it. When cutting the slab into smaller pieces, the fabricators will need a special blade to make cuts without chipping it.
2) Fabrications may be more time-consuming than Quartz or Marble making it the more expensive option.
3) It is important to use MDF or Plywood underneath to support it.
4) The colour and pattern are only on the surface. When mitering, you will not have any colour or pattern on the mitered edge.
5) Options may be more limited in some areas of the province.
6) They look almost identical to natural marble with no need for maintenance.
7) Very durable, scratchproof, heatproof, UV resistant, Anti-Bacterial
8) Stain-proof, no liquid or chemical can penetrate it easily, leaving no need to seal.
Here are some tips on Quartz Countertops:
Quartz is a natural material composed of Oxygen and Silicon. Manufacturers grind the natural Quartz into dust and bind it back together using resins and polymers. This forms a highly durable and fairly less porous material to use as a countertop. Pigments are also used to add colour to them, but some manufactures go a step above and use recycled glass or metal flecks to enhance the design.
1) Given the designs available in the market, Quartz countertops have a tendency to have more of a modern or contemporary look. But they do come in a variety of patterns and designs and can accommodate any look you desire. Do you like bookmatched pattern? They also come bookmatched to give you the symmetry you like.
2) Some manufacturers provide a lifetime residential warranty. Meaning if you purchase your material from a reputable manufacturer like Caesarstone, you will enjoy a peace of mind.
3) Compared to natural stone, they are considerably more resistant to stains. In case of any spills, most of the time, all you need is warm water and soap to wipe it off. But it is very important to know, they are not stain-proof. some liquids and food colourings can still penetrate the surface and leave a stain.
4) Compared to Natural Stone, The slabs come in bigger sizes allowing you to have a bigger 1 piece countertop with no joints.
5) If your kitchen is filled with direct natural sunlight, Quartz is not a good option for you. Quartz countertops are not UV resistant; so they will go pale if they get hit by direct sunlight. Needless to say, for outdoor kitchen, they are definitely not recommended.
6) Quartz countertops roughly carry around 10% resins and pigments. These material can react to certain chemicals and cause damage. Liquids like bleach, high pH cleaners, nail polish removers, and also damage the colour pigments.
7) Avoid putting any hot cookware on these countertops. The resins are pigments do not like extreme heat and they will get discoloured if they come in contact with it.
Here are some tips on Natural Stone Coutnertops:
1) They look gorgeous, YES; But they require proper maintenance to keep it that way. If not sealed properly every few months, one wine spill can damage the stone and leave a red stain beyond repair.
2) They are super heavy and counters have to be sturdy enough to support the load.
3) Price is also considerable. Compared to other option, Marble is of a higher price line.
4) Every slab will be different and truly unique to your home.
To summarize, the answer comes down to your lifestyle and budget.
The most budget friendly option is Quartz
The most worry free option is Porcelain
The most exotic option is Marble