Selecting New Countertops
It's amazing what a difference installing new countertops will make to your bathroom, kitchen, entertainment area or bar! We work with quartz, solid surface, laminate and granite. Countertop materials vary greatly in style, durability, and cost - we’re here to help you select the perfect material for your home.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz is an engineered stone product that combines the beauty of natural stone and the benefits of technology, with a much wider selection of colors and styles. It can mimic the look and feel of natural stone materials but is typically more durable and easy to maintain.
Care & Maintenance
Quartz countertops are non-porous, low maintenance and easy to clean. They are heat and scratch resistant, but you should avoid cutting directly on the countertop or placing hot pots and pans down without hot pads or trivets. Like other stone materials, quartz can chip or crack if a heavy item is dropped onto it. Always check with the manufacturer for approved cleaning products and tips for care and maintenance:
Cambria Care
Silestone Care
Corian Quartz Care
Granite Countertops
Granite remains a popular countertop material because of its durability and beauty. It comes in a wide variety of colors and styles. Granite is available polished with a glossy finish or honed, which is a soft, matte finish. Because granite is a natural material, quarried as a solid piece of stone, each slab is completely unique. Below are a few examples of different granite styles and colors.
Care & Maintenance
Use only cleaning products designed for granite countertops. Avoid letting liquids, acidic foods or dish soaps sit on the countertop as they can stain the granite. Granite countertops are heat and scratch resistant, but you should avoid cutting directly on the countertop or placing hot pots and pans down without hot pads or trivets. Granite can chip or crack if a heavy item is dropped onto it. Because it is a porous, natural stone, granite must must be sealed periodically to avoid staining.
Solid Surface Countertops
Solid surface countertops are designed to look like natural stone while offering several additional features. They can be molded to fit any space, with numerous edge profiles available. Solid surface countertop material is available in countless colors and styles. Because it is a molded material, it can be seamlessly integrated with sink(s) and even your backsplash.
Care & Maintenance
Solid surface countertops are durable, but not as strong as stone countertops. Do not place hot items and pans directly onto the countertop as heat will discolor the surface. A great feature of solid surface is that surface stains and minor dents/cuts can be repaired by sanding them out. Solid surface countertops are easily cleaned with just soap and water. Refer to the manufacturer’s use and care manual for repair and to find a list of approved cleaners.
Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops are an affordable and popular option. Countless styles and colors are available that mimic the look of more expensive stone and solid surface countertops. Laminate countertops can be made with or without a short integrated backsplash, and are quick to install. They are a durable, attractive option for budget kitchen and bath makeovers, and laundry rooms.
Care & Maintenance
Don’t cut directly on a laminate countertop or use abrasive materials or cleaners - they can scratch or dull the surface. Always use hot pads or trivets under hot items. Wipe up any standing liquid to avoid staining. Clean laminate countertops with mild soapy water or a mild household cleaner.
