Be it a newly constructed kitchen or a replacement, there is a significant question in everybody’s mind – solid surface vs quartz countertop.
There are countless countertop options available to choose from today. Thus, it has been becoming increasingly difficult for homeowners and contractors to ascertain which of them would be best suited to a particular project. In fact, clients could be unfamiliar even with the specific differences between various kinds of countertops.
Solid surface and quartz countertops are the most popular among all the different kinds of countertops available in the market. That is mainly by virtue of their remarkably economical prices and admirable sturdiness.
However, there remains the question of which of them is apt for your needs. This guide aims to produce a comparison of the solid surface countertop vs. quartz kitchen countertop. You can take a good look at their respective pros and cons to choose the best option for your kitchen.
What are Solid Surface Countertops?
If we want to study the solid surface countertop vs. quartz countertop, we need to look at them individually first. Solid surface countertops are synthetic and crafted using polyester plastic or acrylic blends.
Popular brands like Staron and Corian come under this category as well. These materials feature a uniform texture and color, along with a non-shiny (matte) finish.
Pros Of Solid Surface Countertops
Speaking of the material itself, a solid surface tends to be vulnerable to scratches. There are hundreds of varieties of solid surface countertops available in the market today. All of them come in unique patterns, textures, and colors.
Thus, if you are choosy when it comes to matching the color palette of your décor, there are a lot of options available. Apart from this, you will be able to choose from a variety of edge profiles as well.
Usually, solid surface countertops are poured onto the kitchen’s specifications. As a result, they rarely possess seams. Thus, there is immense scope for special features like integrated splash-backs and molded sinks.
Solid surface countertops are also relatively easy to maintain. They are not porous, so you do not have to fret about accumulated bacteria, fungi, or stains. You can conveniently clean your solid surface countertop using a simple disinfectant wipe.
Cons Of Solid Surface Countertops
Solid surface can admirably withstand up to 100 degree Celsius of water boiling point. However, many manufacturers warn against placing hot objects, such as pans or pots, directly upon these surfaces. Doing so could result in ungainly cracks, discoloration, or warps. Fortunately, a lot of scratch-related issues can be attended to by sanding. This process can restore the intrinsic integrity of solid surfaces.
Although the solid surface countertop possesses a natural finish, it is not as hard as a stone. Thus, any carelessness can lead to scratching and chipping. The latter can be especially awful because it traps moisture and dust.
As a result, cleaning the surface becomes a more challenging job. It also makes scratches appear more prominent and ungainly. You might have to replace the entire countertop if the damage becomes excessive.
What are Quartz Countertops?
Continuing with our topic of the solid surface countertop vs. quartz countertop, we will now look at the latter. Like the solid surface, quartz tops – also known as engineered stone – are synthetic. However, many pulverized natural quartz is present in them (around 85-95%). This quartz is present in combination with resin and certain recycled substances like glass. Let’s have a look at some quartz countertop pros and cons as well.
Pros Of Quartz Countertops
Unlike solid surface countertops, quartz countertops are sturdier and more resistant to scratches. Notably, they can withstand temperatures of over four hundred degrees. You can use heating pads to increase the lifespan of your quartz countertop even more.
Generally, quartz tops possess a beautiful, glossy appearance. They also tend to come in a consistent pattern and color. However, certain matte varieties have been growing in popularity as of late. You have the luxury of selecting from an expansive roster of attractive colors.
Apart from that, these tops come in innumerable innovative patterns, textures, and designs as well. You will also find variants that closely resemble marble, granite, and other natural stones in appearance. Thus, they are often considered to be good alternatives to granite countertops.
You can also choose from several different edge profile options. A quartz countertop’s color is by virtue of the resin utilized to bind it together. Homeowners can conveniently customize their quartz countertops to suit their preferences. The selection process becomes much smoother due to the superior flexibility for the style and design.
Cons Of Quartz Countertops
Due to its luxurious qualities, quartz costs a lot more than the solid surface countertop. If you have a tight budget, it may not be an advisable choice for you. Also, unlike the solid surface countertop, quartz is not seamless. Thus, people aiming for intricate patterns need to make sure that there are not many seams.
Solid Surface vs Quartz Countertop
We’ve arrived at the million-dollar question at last – solid surface countertop vs. quartz countertop. Which of them should one go for? However, the answer depends on your personal budget, a requirement for durability, and design goals.
If you have a limited budget, you can go for any of the basic shades of solid surface. If you do not have any budget restrictions, you have various quality options among custom quartz countertops to choose from.
When it comes to durability, it is evident that quartz countertops are much more durable than solid surface countertops. Remember that if you choose to go for a less durable material right now, you will likely have to invest that price difference in resurfacing the countertop periodically.
Similarly, quartz offers many more design styles and options for you to choose from. We advise having a conversation with a custom countertop professional regarding your requirements.
