Is Granite A Solid Surface Or Stone Countertop

However the material isn t without its flaws.

Is granite a solid surface or stone countertop.

Solid surface is the term for a type of heavy polymer laden countertop material. Non porous very resistant to bacteria. Unlike laminate or ceramic tile solid surface s material goes all the way through from top to bottom. These include granite marble quartzite soapstone porcelain butcher block quartz solid surface and laminate.

Each surface material ranges in price some being more dramatic than others. Read on to find out which countertops are the cheapest and which are the most expensive. First up solid surface countertops are non porous. A stain resistant nonporous option with virtually no seams solid surfaces can be used for just about any vertical or horizontal surface making them a prime pick beyond countertops.

Due to brand competition it is a lower priced and popular material quartz is the catchy marketing term for what is more widely known as engineered stone itself a term for a slurry of natural minerals combined with resins to create a hard rock like surface for. No surface is completely non porous but tile quartz and solid surface come as close to being non porous as any countertop material solid surface s extremely low porosity keeps bacteria away promoting a cleaner and more sanitary countertop. In premium kitchen countertops the most popular choices are solid surface engineered stone and granite. Countertop fabrication info stone granite solid surface quartz laminate and more.

Prices range but will be similar to a mid range granite countertop. Hot pots can burn the surface. Although it can hold up to 100 degree celsius of water boiling point anything hotter than that may cause the countertop to warp and deform. That said it is fairly easy to stain scratch and melt these c ountertops in a kitchen setting.

Non porous easy to clean. Solid surface is also durable trumping natural stone but can still sustain damage from heat or force. Solid surface countertops also cost less than natural and manufactured stone making it a viable option if you are on a budget. On any given day your kitchen countertop may wind up playing the roles of cutting board hot pad office desk food prep surface snack bar and headquarters.

Independent studies have found granite to be one of the most bacteria resistant surfaces available. Solid surface countertops can be refinished by a professional if they become stained or scratched. Hot pots can warp melt or discolor the surface. Solid surface countertops are a great alternative to natural stone for those looking for peace of mind.

Cutting boards and trivets should always be used.