During a kitchen or bath remodel, choosing a countertop can be one of the most exciting parts of the process. However, with so many options, it can be difficult to choose the right one. Two types of counters available, solid surface and quartz, may seem very similar but they actually have their own pros and cons.

Solid-Surface and Quartz Countertops

Solid-surface countertops are created when mineral dust, which usually has a high concentration of marble, is mixed with resins and pigments to create the counters. It is easy to create and can give you completely seamless countertops even if you have a large counter area. The product was introduced by duPont in 1967 under the brand name Corian but there are now other brands available. Quartz countertops are created when ground quartz, one of the strongest substances on Earth, is mixed with resins and pigment. Although the counters are made in a similar fashion, there are several differences between them that you must understand before choosing it for your family.

Ease of Installation

Neither is easily installed by the average do-it-yourselfer. Although solid-surface materials can be cut with ordinary tools it is almost impossible for the average person to find sheets of solid-surface materials. Quartz requires special tools that most people don’t have lying around their home or garage. It is possible to purchase ready-made vanities or small sections of counter designed for bathrooms or small kitchens that may be able to be installed on your own.

Heat Resistance

Both counters contain polymers which make them less heat resistant than granite but most solid-surface counters have a lower heat resistance rating than quartz. It is possible to damage quartz counters with extremely hot pans although it does take significant heat to do so. Damaging your solid-surface counter with a hot pan could actually void the warranty.

Scratch Resistance

Quartz is far more scratch resistant than solid-surface materials. Cutting on a solid-surface counter will result in scratches although they can be buffed out fairly easily. It is recommended that you use cutting boards for quartz more to protect your knives than the surface of the counter.

Neither quartz nor solid-surface materials need sealing and the cost for the two products is similar. If you are looking for countertops for your kitchen or bath remodel, contact us today by filling out the easy online form or giving us a call.