What are some of the advantages and disadvantages between solid stone, laminate, granite, and quartz?
Written by: Lorna Glasser owner of Bevelled Edge, a Regina, Saskatchewan countertop business who specializes in granite, laminate, quartz countertops, sinks, taps, tiles, and cabinet refacing to Regina, Saskatchewan, and the surrounding area. Here she writes about the advantages and disadvantages between laminate, granite, and quartz.
Solid Surface Countertops
A synthetic surface. It is made of a non-porous acrylic polymer. The compressed molecular makeup makes the product sealed and sanitary. The slabs of material are ½” thick with colour and particulates consistent throughout. Some well-known brand names are Staron, Gibralter, Meganite, Avonite, Corian.
Key traits that make this material a great choice:
- Longevity
- Ease of cleaning
- Invisible seams
- Integrated sinks
The look is satiny smooth. The feel is softer and warmer than stone. The material can be carved and thermofoiled in order to form and shape it.
Surface damage can usually be repaired with scrubbing or light sanding. More severe damage requires professional repair.
Proper care includes:
- Gentle non-abrasive cleaning. An example is the use of microfiber cloths or sponges such as Norwex or Mr. Clean.
- Do not cut or chop directly on the surface.
- Do not put hot pots directly on the surface. Avoid corrosive chemicals, highly acidic or alkaline solutions, and dye or staining foods.
The cost is comparable to granite and quartz.
Laminate Countertops
Laminate is an inexpensive, low-maintenance alternative to pricier options.
New laminate patterns are extremely realistic representations of granite.
Laminate countertops are available in multiple construction styles.
Advantages:
- It is a solid durable material
- There are a wide range of colours textures and patterns
- It cleans easily with soap and water
- Resists most stains
- Inexpensive
Disadvantages:
- Seams may be visible
- Seams susceptible to prolonged water exposure
- It can chip or scratch. Some finishes are more resistant than others.
- It cannot be used as a chopping surface, but really no other counter should be either.
- It is not resistant to heat. The glue that binds the laminate to the substrate can release.
It is an elegant and durable surface. A sheet of natural stone cut from the earth and polished.
Advantages:
- Natural beauty mostly cannot be reproduced in other products.
- It is water and heat resistant
- Easy cleanup
- Every slab is unique
Disadvantages:
- Requires sealing
- Stains, acids, alcohol, and oils can permanently mark the surface.
- It can chip or flake
- It dulls knives and glassware breaks easily
- Expensive
- Seams can be quite visible depending on the pattern in the stone
This is an engineered stone. Blocks of stone are ground up and the hardest crystals are reformed into a slab with 7% resin. Slabs are the same thickness and weight as granite. Slabs are completely sealed. Slabs lack the natural flaws of granite that weaken the slab.
Advantages:
- Mould and mildew resistance. Extremely hygienic.
- Slabs have some resistance to heat and scratching.
- Stains will not penetrate. Surface colouration can be scrubbed off.
- Different looks are created imitating marble, granite, and other stones.
- Seams cut cleaner than most stone products
- Easy cleanup
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- It dulls knives and glassware breaks easily
