Kitchen and Bath Countertops

Engineered Stone Quartz Countertop Pros & Cons

Pros
Cons
  • The most durable surface material.
  • Can be expensive.
  • Low Maintenance
  • Does not have the uniqueness and beauty that is found in natural stone.
  • The surface is nonporous and is resistant to stains and acid damage.
  • Can have visible seams.
  • Resistant to heat damage.
  • Offers a wide variety of colors, patterns, and textures.
  • No need for resealing unlike granite and marble which is required for natural stones.
 

Granite Countertop Pros & Cons

Pros
Cons
  • You select the material. Is a mixture of natural beauty and elegance.
  • Can be expensive depending on the color and type of stone. Size and thickness can also be a factor that can raise cost.
  • Withstands heat and is resistant to scratches
  • A cutting board must be used.
  • Very strong and durable. Permanent and substantial look.
  • Granite is Porous, thus without regular sealing you can stain it.
  • Different costs based of particular stone selected
  • Granite must be resealed.
  • Very unique as no two granite tops are exactly alike
  • Granite can crack thus it could be costly to repair let alone expensive to replace.
  • Coloration does not change. Granite will always remain the same bright and vibrant color as when it was first installed.
 

Laminate Countertop Pros & Cons

Pros
Cons
  • Limitless variety of color and design.
  • The multiple layers make it difficult to repair chips and scratches.
  • Can replicate the look of granite, solid surface, hardwood, among others, providing a more upscale look at a cheaper price.
  • Layers can break apart due to hot items and water seeping into the seams.
  • Requires easy upkeep, and is easy to clean up.
  • Requires use of cutting boards.
  • Inexpensive, due to reduced labor and less expensive materials compared to other countertop surfaces.
  • Cannot be cleaned with abrasives.
  • Very Allows for decorative edge treatments
  • Seams show and finishing the front edge can be expensive.
 
  • Not stain-proof.

Solid Surface Countertop Pros & Cons

Pros
Cons
  • Offered in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
  • Can be more expensive than other countertop surfaces.
  • Seamless look. Very durable.
  • Vulnerable to hot pans and stains; may crack as it cools down.
  • Virtually stain-proof because it is nonporous.
  • Potential to be discolored if a heavy object falls on it.
  • Chips, dents and scratches can be repaired easily.
  • Although scratches can be sanded out, a cutting board should be used.
  • Flexibility allows the formation of decorative shapes and an integral sink.
 
  • Can provide the look and feel of stone or marble surfaces.