 |  |  |
This Resources page is intended to help you to narrow your focus on materials based on some more general criteria, such as cost, visual or aesthetic appeal, maintenance requirements, durability, etc... From there, more detailed descriptions of specific materials can be found by reviewing our Products Page. By continuing to our Brands & Vendors Page, you can learn more about specific products and brands offered, and visit specific manufacturer websites via the links provided.
For even more information, or to answer any specific lingering questions or concerns you might have, please use the Contact Page to send your comments or questions to us.
What follows are some more general features, benefits, and various considerations of the more popular countertop materials that you might select. They are in no particular order and the Products Page can provide you with more detail on each of the options.
Laminates, such as those manufactured by Formica® or Wilsonart®, are still the entry point and the least expensive of your surfacing options. While colors, patterns, and finishes of laminate have improved greatly, it is not general preferred over stones or solid surface products. It is typically chosen when the customers highest priority concerns cost.
Natural or Engineered Stones, and Solid Surface are considered to be upgrades over laminate. Laminate can have a limited life span as the material is generally not repairable. These upgrade options can be significantly more expensive, but definitely represent an investment in the home. They are intended to last forever and most definitely provide tremendous aesthetic improvement, as well as marketability, should a home subsequently be marketed for sale. The cost of these upgrade options are actually pretty similar and very much dependent upon what specific comparisons are being made. Most often, the customer choosing to upgrade over laminate is looking for specific features, rather than relative costs, to help to direct their focus and decisions.
Because of their highly polished surfaces, stones are sought for their visual impact on the kitchen. Natural granite does require some maintenance and general attentiveness, but usually features more color variations and dynamic movement in the stone, enhancing the entire "natural" appeal. Quartz or engineered stones, while a bit more regular or consistent in colors and patterns, is basically the strongest and most maintenance free option. Acrylic Solid Surface, such as Corian® is chosen when the visual impact of the polished stone is not the higher priority. Like Quartz, Solid Surface is a non-porous material, keeping it free from staining or bacterial growth. Solid Surface is very repairable, completely renewable, and can be fabricated and installed with a more seamless appearance. Sinks, of the same material, can be integrated seamlessly, and backsplash can be coved for more easy cleaning and to further enhance the whole integral and seamless appearance of the installed countertop.
Please continue to the Products and Brands and Vendors pages for additional information.