Whether you’re moving into a new home or looking into an update for your home’s key areas, it all comes down to deciding on the type of material you would like to have as countertops. Needless to say, countertops are an expensive purchase and since you will be looking at your investment for years to come, it’s good to go ahead with a clear mind about what you would like. Quartz and granite kitchen countertops are popular.

Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting out with your new home, we all know that when it comes to countertops, only granite and solid surface make it through as top choices along with marble and quartz countertops. At a glance, both materials may look alike but up close, they vary greatly.

This time, we will be comparing the two countertops in categories such as general appearance, durability and overall returns, so you can hopefully select the best material out there suitable to your needs. Let’s get started.

Appearance

Solid Surface Countertops

Solid surface countertops are fully synthetic manmade materials consisting of poly resins, epoxide, acrylic and various other pigments all incorporated by a filler like material known as natural bauxite. What makes them distinct is the uniformity and simplicity. Unlike granite, solid surface countertops are devoid of complex patterns and elaborate veining’s making it an ideal purchase for families who would like to have a countertop that doesn’t take away all the attention. Others may dislike it because of its plastic like uniform and plain appearance.

Granite Countertops

Granite counter surfaces are 100% natural stone derived from the igneous rocks. They are quarried and mined from large rock reserves and then cut into slabs. Granite stone is the epitome of luxury and elegance, as the stone is available in a variety of colors and patterns with elaborate patterns and speckles and complex veining, all adding up to its beauty. Granite countertops can easily become the center of attention in the room, which means it’s not the ideal choice if you already have a well decorated area. Although the general appearance is lustrous and shiny, the bold colors and mottled appearance is something only for the brave hearted.

Heat And Water Resistance

As far as heat and water resistance is concerned, there is a tie in between both. Solid surface countertops have excellent moisture repelling properties but they can easily get scorched by hot skillets and pans. On the flip side, granite tends to retain a lot of moisture due to its porous nature and will need periodic sealing and maintenance. As far as heat resistance is concerned, granite does a good job against most pans and skillets.

Care And Cleaning

Coming to this category, both materials are considered as hygienic and essentially non porous. To clean a solid surface countertop, a soapy solution or ammonia based detergent is sufficient. Do not use glass cleaners or other strong solutions for cleaning purposes. They might leave a waxy residue which is undesirable. Solid surface counters rarely require a sealing agent. Do not put scorching hot pans and pots on the counters and clean the stains as soon as possible.

Contrary to the former, granite does a good job at being less messy. A simple soap solution or baking soda paste is sufficient to remove stains. The countertop does not scorch with intense amounts of heat, so that’s a plus here. The lustrous appeal may give a false appearance of being clean, so keep an eye over that. Regular sealing are recommended for granite counters.

Durability

Solid surface counters are easy to scratch, but minor imperfections can be fixed by sanding the counters thoroughly. These counters are relatively inert, hence do not react to acidic solutions nor require sealing. Granite on the other hand, is scratch free and quite hard, but it is brittle and can be broken by immense pressures. Granite counters will react to acidic solutions such as lime juice and vinegar, and require frequent sealing so there’s a point there to look out for.

Cost

Solid surface countertops can range from anywhere from $35 and beyond, while granite countertops are generally expensive with prices starting from $65 per sq ft and above depending on the design.

And there you have it folks, a quick guide covering up your most important concerns about the two countertop materials. Go to a granite countertop installer Raleigh NC for getting exact quotes.