Luxurious kitchens are status symbols these days. Kitchen makeovers are the most popular home remodeling job. One of the popular components of the must-have kitchen is stone counter-tops. Some of the most commonly used materials are granite, marble and quartz. Granite was the standard for a while but quartz is running second. Learn the pros and cons of both materials.
First, if you like natural stone, granite is 100% natural stone. Quartz counter-tops are made of natural stone and binding resins. Quartz scores a seven on the Mohs Hardness scale, a diamond is a ten. Therefore, it is very durable. Quartz is resistant to chipping and cracking which makes it easy to transport and install. Additionally, quartz counters can resist heat without burning or scorching. On the other hand, granite is also very durable. However, quartz scores higher on the Mohs scale and resists chips and cracks better. Quartz wins hands down in the stain-resistance department. Common stains like vinegar, wine, oil and coffee bounce off of quartz. Meanwhile, granite has a crystalline structure which makes tiny spaces or fissures that must be sealed. This should be done on a regular basis or bacteria could get embedded in the granite. People who are interested in quartz countertops in Minneapolis should contact Granite Unlimited Inc. This company is a fabricator and installer of natural stone countertops and vanities.
Quartz may be minimally safer than granite. Quartz is non-porous and that makes it superior to granite in staying clean. In addition, natural stones emit low levels of radon gas. Granite is a natural stone but the chance of being hurt by radon is very low. Which surface is most attractive depends on whether you like engineered surfaces or all natural looks. Both materials are available in a wide range of colors. However, granite seams are hard to hide. Installers can hide seams easier on engineered surfaces. You will need a specialist to install both counter-tops. Indeed, they are heavy and you don’t want chips. Granite is the more expensive of the two and remains a favorite for many people. However, quartz countertops in Minneapolis and other places are becoming more common.
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