FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your kitchen countertop is arguably the most important surface in your home, second only to the floor. It serves as a hub for family meal prep, late-night snacks, and kids’ projects. Since the kitchen is often where guests gather, your countertop plays a crucial role in entertaining. Choosing the right material is essential, especially considering you’ll likely live with it for decades.

However, if you’ve explored home improvement stores, magazines, or online options, you know that selecting a countertop can be overwhelming due to the variety of materials available, each with unique styles and benefits.

Here, we’ll cover three popular kitchen countertop options: Granite, Quartz, and Quartzite. Understanding their similarities and differences will help you make an informed choice for your home.

Granite

Granite countertops are among the hardest natural stone surfaces, making them extremely durable. Here are some key benefits:

• Heat Resistance: While it’s still advisable to use hot pads, granite can withstand hot pans without damage or discoloration.

 

• Scratch Resistance: Daily use should not scratch the surface, though it’s best to avoid cutting directly on it.

 

• Stain Resistance: Regular sealing helps granite repel stains, but it’s wise to clean spills promptly, especially with acidic liquids.

 

• Low Maintenance: A mild cleaner and a soft cloth are all you need to keep granite looking pristine.

 

• Return on Investment: Granite countertops often boost a home’s value and can help it sell faster.

 

• Variety of Colors and Patterns: Available in a wide range of colors from neutrals to vibrant hues, granite features patterns that can be subtle or bold. Use our granite visualizer to see how different options will look in your kitchen.

Quartz

Quartz countertops are engineered surfaces made from about 90% pulverized quartz, mixed with minerals and pigments, and bonded with resin. Their popularity continues to rise for several reasons:

• Durability: Like granite, quartz is highly resistant to stains and scratches.

 

• Water Resistance: Completely waterproof, quartz doesn’t require sealing.

 

• Low Maintenance: Cleaning is simple with just a mild cleanser.

 

• Return on Investment: As quartz gains popularity, home buyers appreciate its beauty, durability, and ease of care, sometimes preferring it over natural stone.

 

• Consistency: Unlike natural stone, quartz samples provide a reliable representation of the final product, making it easier to match pieces.

 

• Variety of Colors and Patterns: Available in solid colors for modern aesthetics, quartz can also mimic various natural stones like marble and granite.

 

Quartzite

Quartzite is a natural stone often confused with quartz. It’s formed when sandstone undergoes high pressure and heat. Here are reasons homeowners opt for quartzite countertops:

• Durability: Similar in hardness to granite, true quartzite won’t etch from acidic substances, making it resistant to stains, although not as much as granite, especially in lighter colors.

 

• Care and Maintenance: A mild cleanser suffices for daily cleaning, while a natural stone cleaner is needed for deeper cleans. Regular sealing is required to maintain its water- and stain-resistance.

 

• Colors and Patterns: Typically found in lighter shades like creamy white and beige, quartzite often resembles marble, providing a similar aesthetic with less maintenance. Darker and exotic colors are also available.

 

• Countertop Edges: Slightly softer than granite, quartzite allows for easier customization of edges by fabricators.

 

Points to Consider

Choosing between quartz, granite, and quartzite can be simplified by considering these questions:

• What’s your priority: Stain resistance, scratch resistance, or etching? Granite excels in stain and scratch resistance, quartzite in etching, and quartz in all three.

 

• How much maintenance are you willing to do: All stone countertops require occasional sealing, while quartz needs none.

 

• What’s your budget: Granite typically costs less, while quartzite is more expensive. You can lower costs by using a premium material in a central area and a less costly option elsewhere.

 

Each countertop material has its pros and cons. Ultimately, your choice may come down to which one feels right. Regardless of your selection—granite, quartz, or quartzite—you’ll be installing a beautiful, durable surface that your family will enjoy for years to come.

Marble and granite are natural stones, and the most obvious difference is their appearance. Let’s mention some of their pros and cons:

Marble

Marble countertops are renowned for their elegant appearance and unique veining patterns, making them a luxurious choice for kitchens and bathrooms. They offer a classic, timeless aesthetic that elevates any space. While marble is softer and more porous than granite, it provides excellent heat resistance and can withstand high temperatures. However, it requires regular sealing to prevent stains and etching from acidic substances. With proper care, marble countertops can be a stunning centerpiece that adds sophistication to your home. Here are some key benefits:

• Is a metamorphic rock derived from limestone, tends to have a timeless, elegant look with beautiful veining and a unique design for each slab.

 

• Offers the widest variety of looks of any natural stone.

 

• Highly durable yet delicate surface.

 

• Vulnerable to scratches, chipping, and staining.

 

• Daily cleaning and consistent maintenance are needed.

Granite

Granite countertops are a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, heat resistance, and timeless aesthetic. Made from natural stone, they offer unique patterns and colors that enhance any design. Granite is also scratch-resistant and relatively low-maintenance when properly sealed, making it a practical option that can increase a home’s value. Here are some key benefits:

• Is an igneous rock formed from cooled magma.

 

• Looks more like true natural stone, with a large variety of colors, hues, and styles marked by flecks of minerals.

 

• Is stronger, harder, and less porous than marble.

 

• More durable and easier to keep clean than marble.

 

• Withstands heavy wear and tear.

 

• Less likely to crack or chip.

 

• Easy to clean.

 

• Less daily cleaning and maintenance are required.

 

The most common stone used for fabricating countertops is granite. Its popularity stems from several factors:

• Durability: Granite is incredibly hard and resistant to scratches and heat, making it ideal for high-traffic areas likekitchens.

 

• Variety: Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, granite allows for customization to match various design styles.

 

• Low Maintenance: When properly sealed, granite is relatively easy to maintain and clean, resisting stains and bacteria.

 

• Increased Home Value: ranite countertops can enhance the resale value of a home, making them a sought-after feature forpotential buyers.

In today’s kitchen design landscape, quartz countertops have emerged as a standout choice. Whether you’re a professional chef, a passionate home cook, or someone who appreciates a stylish and functional kitchen, quartz offers surfaces that not only withstand the demands of daily cooking but also enhance the overall aesthetic. Many culinary enthusiasts are turning to premium natural quartz for their kitchens. Let’s delve into the key advantages of quartz and explore why it’s the ultimate surface for elevating any culinary space

Exceptional Durability for Everyday Use

Kitchens are busy environments that experience constant wear and tear. For home cooks, having a durable surface is essential. Quartz countertops are known for their impressive strength and resistance to common kitchen challenges, making them an excellent choice for active cooking areas.

Crafted from natural quartz and resins, these countertops provide a robust surface that outperforms natural stone in terms of crack, chip, and stain resistance. They can handle heavy kitchen tools and even the occasional mishap without losing their attractive appearance.

For those who cook often or host gatherings, quartz’s durability is a significant advantage. These countertops maintain their beauty over time, making them a smart investment for any home chef.

Non-Porous for Hygiene and Safety

In a busy kitchen, maintaining cleanliness is vital. The non-porous quality of quartz countertops offers a major benefit. Without microscopic pores, quartz resists stains and bacterial growth, making it a safe choice for food preparation—whether you’re chopping vegetables, rolling dough, or handling raw meat.

For those concerned about food safety, this property of quartz is especially important. Unlike traditional stone countertops, which typically require sealing to prevent staining and bacteria buildup, quartz simplifies maintenance. A quick wipe with mild detergent keeps the surface clean, saving home chefs valuable time.

Heat Resistance for Demanding Cooking

A common concern when selecting countertop materials is their ability to withstand heat. For home cooks who frequently employ high-heat techniques like searing and roasting, heat resistance is essential. Quartz countertops can endure moderate heat, making them suitable for kitchens where hot cookware is regularly used.

While it’s still advisable to use trivets or hot pads, quartz provides reassurance that it won’t easily scorch or crack under occasional high temperatures. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who spend a lot of time in the kitchen or often entertain guests, requiring a resilient surface.

Low Maintenance with Stunning Aesthetics

Quartz countertops are popular for their minimal maintenance needs. Unlike natural stone, which often requires regular sealing and specialized cleaning, quartz is easy to care for. These surfaces need only a gentle wipe with warm water and a soft cloth to maintain their fresh appearance.

This ease of maintenance is a major advantage for home chefs who are busy preparing meals and hosting events. Instead of worrying about upkeep, they can focus on creating delicious dishes in a beautiful, functional kitchen.

Diverse Design Options to Suit Any Style

Kitchens serve as the heart of the home and play a crucial role in its overall design. The quartz market offers a vast array of styles, catering to both modern and traditional tastes. With options ranging from classic whites to bold colors and realistic marble patterns, quartz selections deliver striking visual appeal.

Many quartz products feature formulations that enhance depth, realism, and clarity. These technologies improve light reflection, resulting in a radiant surface that adds a touch of luxury to any kitchen. With such options, home chefs enjoy a surface that combines unmatched style with the durability and beauty characteristic of quartz.

This design versatility is one reason why both professional designers and homeowners prefer quartz countertops. The wide variety of colors and patterns allows for easy coordination with cabinetry, backsplashes, and flooring, creating a cohesive kitchen aesthetic that reflects personal style and culinary passion.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Option

In addition to being beautiful and durable, quartz countertops are an environmentally responsible choice for eco-conscious home cooks. Quartz is an abundant natural resource, and the production processes for quartz countertops often incorporate sustainable practices. By choosing quartz, home chefs select a long-lasting material that minimizes waste through reduced need for replacement.

Manufacturers often prioritize responsible sourcing and production, allowing homeowners to feel confident in their countertop choices. The durability and low maintenance of quartz further enhance its sustainability, as it doesn’t require harmful chemicals for upkeep or frequent replacements.

Choosing a quartz countertop for your kitchen or bathroom is a significant decision, but there are still more choices to make! The good news is that there are more options for quartz countertops available today than ever before. However, with so many selections, the process can feel overwhelming.

Regardless of the colors, patterns, or customizations you choose, one thing is certain: opting for quartz is a smart choice. This premium surface is easy to maintain and never requires sealing to stay resistant to water and stains. It’s incredibly durable, capable of withstanding the demands of a busy family, from daily cooking and entertaining to school projects. Additionally, quartz countertops resist stains and chips, potentially increasing your home’s resale value.

While most people think of quartz countertops for kitchens and bathrooms, they are also great for other areas of the home. Consider updating your laundry room or mudroom; a countertop can provide space for folding clothes, pre-treating stains, or even accommodating a utility sink. Craft rooms are another excellent fit for quartz, as they resist scratches and stains, combining durability with aesthetic appeal.

Making a big purchase can be stressful, especially when you want to ensure you’ve covered all the important factors. This straightforward guide offers a checklist to help you consider everything necessary when selecting a new quartz countertop.

Prefabricated vs. Slab Countertops

One of the main advantages of choosing quartz is the option for prefabricated countertops. These are not inferior to slab countertops; rather, they are crafted from the same high-quality quartz and come in popular shapes and sizes that fit standard kitchen designs. Prefabs typically include cutouts for sinks and may come with a matching backsplash.

While you may have fewer color and pattern options with prefabricated countertops, they often feature the most sought-after designs. Choosing a prefab can save you money, and installation may be quicker since there’s no wait time for fabrication.

Thickness of the Slab

Quartz countertops usually come in two thicknesses: 2 cm and 3 cm. Both options are suitable for countertop use, but weight and durability are important factors to consider. The 3 cm countertop is heavier and better suited for high-use areas, while the lighter 2 cm slab is ideal for vertical applications like backsplashes. The 3 cm option may require additional reinforcement for cabinetry and flooring to support its weight.

Edge Profiles

When selecting the right quartz countertop, details matter! You can choose from various edge profiles to create a customized look that aligns with your personal style. Simple edge styles like eased, bevel, or bullnose fit well with contemporary designs, while classic treatments like Dupont, Ogee, and French Cove complement traditional aesthetics. The edge style you choose may also depend on the thickness of the slab; for example, a mitered edge can make a thinner 2 cm countertop appear thicker.

Waterfall edges are increasingly popular, featuring a design that extends down the side of the cabinetry, creating a sleek and unified look while protecting the cabinetry from damage.

Finishes for Quartz

Most countertops, including quartz, typically feature a polished finish, known for its shiny, reflective surface. However, quartz is also available in a range of finishes, including soft, non-reflective matte options or styles that mimic concrete—perfect for modern designs.

Color and Pattern Options

Since quartz is man-made, it can be produced in an extensive variety of colors and patterns, limited only by creativity. You can select subtle, neutral patterns ranging from light ivory to deep black, or opt for a solid color for a minimalistic look. Quartz can also mimic the appearance of natural stones, including Italian Calacatta marble and limestone, but with much less maintenance required.

Matching Existing Features

If you’re only replacing the countertop and keeping existing cabinetry, fixtures, and flooring, it’s important to consider how your quartz choice will coordinate with these elements. Think about your overall aesthetic—rustic, contemporary, traditional, or farmhouse. Do you want a light and airy feel or a darker, more elegant ambiance?

Multi-colored quartz can complement natural wood beautifully, while a subtle-patterned countertop may work well with intricately carved cabinetry. Be sure to get a sample of your chosen countertop to compare it with your existing design elements before making a final decision.

Mixing and Matching Colors

There are no rules stating you must select only one color of quartz countertop. If you love a bold black countertop but worry it might overwhelm your space, consider using a darker color for side counters and a lighter shade for a central island. Alternatively, you could use a striking pattern on the island to create a focal point.

With the vast array of options for colors, patterns, edge profiles, and finishes available, you can ensure that your kitchen—or any room—never feels dull. Take your time, consider each aspect outlined in this article, and you’ll feel confident in selecting the perfect quartz countertop.

After choosing quartz as your surface for the kitchen or bathroom, the next step is to find a coordinating backsplash that complements your new countertop. While this can be an exciting process, the vast array of stunning options can also feel overwhelming. A backsplash is an essential element, as it protects your walls from splashes, spills, and grease. Here are some tips to help you choose the right backsplash tile for your quartz countertop.

Start with the Countertops

When embarking on a kitchen or bathroom remodel, it’s best to select your countertops first. They are typically one of the most expensive components, create a significant visual impact, and are not easily replaced. Narrow down your favorite quartz colors and patterns before exploring backsplash options. Installing the quartz slab first allows you to visualize different backsplash ideas in your actual space.

Set a Budget

Your new quartz countertops will take up a substantial part of your budget, so it’s important to set a clear spending limit for the backsplash. While you could extend your quartz up the wall, this may not be feasible for everyone. Determine how much tile you need by identifying the areas you want to cover. Extending the backsplash up to the kitchen cabinets or bathroom ceiling can significantly affect your total costs.

If you decide to cover only part of the wall, you may have room in your budget for higher-end materials like marble. For instance, starting with a solid white quartz countertop allows for versatile design choices, such as beautiful basketweave mosaic tiles installed only up to the cabinetry, saving money on both materials and installation.

Create a Focal Point

Establishing a focal point in your kitchen or bathroom can draw attention to a standout feature or view. If you choose statement surfaces or bold backsplash designs, ensure that only one element serves as the primary focus. Balancing a simple counter with an intricate backsplash or vice versa can create visual harmony.

If your design centers around a kitchen island, window, or stovetop, or a bathtub or vanity in the bathroom, decide whether your countertop or backsplash should stand out. For instance, a striking countertop can be paired with a subtler backsplash or vice versa, depending on the desired ambiance.

Ensure Cohesion

For a unified design, match some details in your kitchen. Coordinating colors, finishes, or edge profiles can create a cohesive look. You can draw inspiration from accent colors or veining in the countertop, which can guide your backsplash color palette. This doesn’t always have to mean bold colors; you can also pull from various shades of whites, grays, or golds to maintain a neutral design. A polished quartz countertop pairs beautifully with glass tile that reflects its glossy finish, while ornate countertop edges can inspire a similarly shaped tile.

For example, a luxurious Calacatta Laza marble-look quartz can be complemented by gray glass subway tiles, with colors echoing the countertop’s veining and finishes.

Experiment with Patterns

If you enjoy bold designs or simply want to express your personality, consider incorporating patterns into your backsplash. Many quartz options come in solid colors, making this the perfect opportunity to select a vibrant or uniquely patterned tile as a focal point.

Even a monochrome backsplash can stand out with a striking pattern. In one bathroom, a black, white, and tan color scheme is enhanced by a floral encaustic-style backsplash, which the homeowners loved so much that they extended it into the shower for a cohesive look.

Make the Right Choice

Interior designers know that a backsplash serves as more than just a design statement; it’s a practical element as well. With so many styles available—from modern tiles to traditional shapes—begin by selecting your quartz countertop to make the backsplash decision easier. By setting a budget, determining a focal point, ensuring design cohesion, and considering patterns, you can confidently choose the right backsplash tile to complement your quartz surface.

Need assistance in finding the perfect backsplash to match your quartz countertop? Feel free to contact us by phone or email, or even better, visit our showroom to explore your options.

You’ve done your research and narrowed down your tile options, but now you face one last decision: should you choose glazed or unglazed porcelain tile?

If you’re unsure about which finish is right for your project, read on. We’ll clarify the differences between glazed and unglazed tiles and help you determine which option suits your needs best.

Understanding the Differences

The key distinction between glazed and unglazed tiles lies in their manufacturing process. Both types start with natural clays and pigments that are fired to harden them. For unglazed tiles, this is where the process ends, resulting in a natural, rustic appearance with a textured, matte finish.

In contrast, glazed tiles undergo a second firing process. They are coated with a protective layer of liquid glass, giving them a slick surface and enabling a wide array of designs and colors through advanced printing technology. This allows modern tiles to replicate the look of materials like Carrara marble or aged wood at a fraction of the cost.

Choosing the Right Type for Your Space

To decide which tile is best for your home, consider how you plan to use the space.

Unglazed tiles have a textured finish that provides extra grip and traction, making them ideal for wet areas and outdoor applications. They are also well-suited for high-traffic areas, such as laundry rooms, due to their matte finish and dense composition, which resist scratching and wear.

For example, unglazed porcelain tiles like Beige Sierra Porcelain Wood Look Tile can seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, making them versatile for both residential and commercial settings.

On the other hand, glazed porcelain tiles are more commonly available and widely used because they offer a greater variety of design options. There’s likely a glazed tile to match any aesthetic, making them ideal for applications like kitchen backsplashes, where the smooth, non-porous surface allows for easy cleanup.

The protective coating on glazed tiles also guards against stains and bacteria, making them a practical choice. While they tend to be smoother than unglazed tiles, many still feature some texture and are available in various finishes, not all of which are high-sheen.

Explore Your Options

To dive deeper into the differences between glazed and unglazed porcelain tiles and to address any additional tile-related questions, check out our online catalog. If you need personalized assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us or visit our showroom for expert guidance.