17

Aug

Concrete Vs. Quartz Countertops: Which Option Is Better?

When it comes to kitchen countertops, there are natural stones are then there are man-made materials. If you’re considering man-made materials and, that too, durable ones, then you may want to know more about two materials: quartz and concrete. So, here is a comparison between concrete and quartz countertops in case you want to choose between the two.

How To Choose Between Concrete And Quartz Countertops?

The Material

First, we will discuss the material and how it’s made. When it comes to kitchen countertops, the materials you choose are extremely crucial. The composition of the material says a lot about the durability and longevity.

Concrete Countertops

When it comes to concrete, it is literally what it sounds like. Concrete is made out of mortar and cement in a very specific combination to give the material its characteristic appearance and list of qualities.

Concrete is generally a neutral material, but when pigment is added, it can be turned into a color. Concrete, because it is made out of sand and mortar, has a very rough look, and it is very rustic-looking. So, if that is what you are looking for, then you can go for it.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz is also a man-made material and it is composed of pulverized stones and quartz crystals and then these things are bound by a clear mix of liquid, which hardens to a rock-solid finish and that is resin.

The result is a countertop that looks just like marble, but the strength is exceptional. Quartz is one of the strongest kitchen countertop materials out there and it is up there with granite and other natural stones, so you know that it is good.

Durability

Next up is the durability of the materials. When you’re choosing countertop materials, they need to be strong. You can’t just get a kitchen countertop that is very fragile, because it won’t last long in the kitchen.

Concrete Countertops

When it comes to concrete, it literally looks like rocks. It is an amazing material with sound durability. It is very strong and it doesn’t budge or crack under weight or pressure. Although concrete is very hard and it doesn’t scratch or chip easily, it is still not indestructible. It can get ruined by something harsh like wire mesh or even acids. So, that is something to keep in mind.

Quartz Countertops

The stone, quartz, is one of the strongest man-made countertop materials out there. It is chip-resistant and it doesn’t break easily, especially around the edges, which are considered to be the most fragile part of the countertops.

However, that also doesn’t mean that quartz can’t ever break. That is impossible. If you use too much force or mishandle the material, then there will obviously come a time when it won’t be able to endure anything for too long and it will break and chip.

Maintenance

The next thing to go over when it comes to kitchen countertops is the maintenance. You don’t want to choose a material that is too heavy on the maintenance side of things. Otherwise, you will be spending all of your time treating the material with kid’s gloves and that is not what you want.

Concrete Countertops

Concrete is sadly porous, which means that it can absorb water into its surface and that can cause a whole lot of damage. This is why an essential part of maintaining concrete is waterproofing it and that is possible through sealing.

It is a clear coat of liquid applied to fill in the pores of the concrete slabs. In this way, water won’t be able to get in easily and your countertops will be safe. As far as cleaning is concerned, dry cleaning is recommended every day.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz is a non-porous material by nature. Since the majority of quartz is composed of crystals and resin, the surface is essentially dense and has no pores in it.

This is why water naturally beads up on the surface of quartz and doesn’t get absorbed into the material. This is amazing, because aside from regular cleaning, you don’t need to maintain it a lot.

Scratch & Heat Resistance

Another factor that people go over when choosing the perfect countertop material for their kitchen is the scratch and heat resistance.

Concrete Countertops

Concrete is generally hard, but it is not entirely scratch-resistant. Even though concrete is amazing when it comes to resisting heat, the same can’t be said about scratches. It is quite soft and it can easily get scratched.

However, that is not too big of a problem, because removing scratches from concrete countertops is easy and doesn’t cost a lot either, since the supplies are readily available and they don’t need to be searched far and wide.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz lacks a bit in the heat resistance department and it makes up for this drawback in the scratch resistance department. Quartz, even though it is hard and durable, can get blistered really easily and that is because resin is not naturally heat-resistant.

As for scratches, you can use the roughest, most abrasive cleaning agents on the surface and quartz will not be affected in any way. So, conclusively, both materials lack in one department and excel in the other.

Cost

Concrete and quartz vary slightly in pricing and installation. Quartz is generally a tad bit more expensive than concrete, when you combine the actual cost of the material as well as installation and maintenance, so this is something you need to keep in mind.

Both materials generally cost fairly, so they’re not as expensive as exotic materials, but you still want to have a reasonable budget for them, so you are not overspending. Kitchen countertops are a necessity, but that doesn’t mean that you can splurge on them.

Environmental Impact

This is something that not a lot of people think of, but judging by the declining health of the planet with each passing day, this is something you need to consider.

Concrete Countertops

Concrete is naturally more environmentally sustainable because the materials which are used to make concrete are naturally sourced. However, some practices are very damaging to the environment, like the high temperatures under which cement is made.

The end product, concrete, is not toxic at all and it doesn’t emit any sort of harmful compound once it is installed in the kitchen. The point is, the material is very stable when it comes to environmental impact.

Quartz Countertops

Okay, so quartz is also a man-made material, but the fact that it uses resin, and a lot of it, makes it very damaging to the environment, especially when it is made. It is treated under very high temperature and pressure, and the toxins left behind are very harmful to everyone. So, that is something that is a huge thumbs down when it comes to quartz countertops.

Resin is a petroleum-based compound and if you know how they’re made, then you’ll want the production to stop all at once, because it is very damaging to the environment.

Conclusion

Concrete and quartz countertops both have their qualities and drawbacks, and now you know exactly what they are. Get in touch with a quartz countertops contractor Potomac to take a look at a variety of natural stone and engineered countertop options.

25

Dec

10 Kitchen Countertop Materials That Are Not Recommended

You might have heard of different countertops being raved up and down. But there are also some materials that you need to keep at bay because of their qualities that don’t make them a good choice for kitchen countertops. Some mentioned here have a few great qualities but also have one or more flaws that make them a bad choice. For example, marble is one of the most beautiful stones but it’s a fragile one. This means it chips, scratches, and cracks easily. So, a better choice in place of marble would be granite countertops. Let’s know more!

Kitchen Countertop Materials You Should Avoid

Glass Countertops

When it comes to countertop materials, you want to choose something that won’t break, at least not at the slightest of impact. Well, this is where glass will disappoint you. Even though it is an amazing material, made out of recycled glass and is very sustainable for the environment, glass is still very much a fragile material that doesn’t do well in the kitchen.

Glass is not entirely heat resistant. It doesn’t prevent scratches and dropping anything heavy from a reasonable height will shatter or crack the glass before you know it. So, if you want to go for a material that will last long, then natural stones or even other man-made options are better.

Something like glass will be treated with kid’s gloves in the kitchen and that is the last thing you want to do when it comes to working in the kitchen to get things done.

Marble Countertops

Marble is a beautiful, elegant, and exceptional natural stone when it comes to kitchen countertops and it is also used in bathrooms, vanities and even making sculptures. Well, marble is also really heavy on the maintenance side of things.

When it comes to maintaining marble, the steps are just too many to keep count. First of all, marble is a non-porous material, so it needs to be sealed. Not only this, the material has to be sealed every now and then to ensure that it doesn’t get damaged by water.

Next comes the actual cleaning, which is very tedious. Marble, being a fragile stone, had to be cleaned gently, otherwise you can turn a cleaning session into something terrifying. Also, you can’t use sharp knives on the surface of marble, otherwise, it will leave deep scratches on the surface and that is not what you want.

Stainless Steel Countertops

Stainless steel is an amazing material when it comes to getting something really easy to clean and manage in the kitchen. If you love industrial looks, then stainless steel should be the option to go for. So, what makes it so bad that you have to avoid it? Well, stainless steel can show fingerprints on the surface like it’s getting paid to highlight them.

There is just no way that you can properly clean a stainless steel countertop without leaving fingerprint smudges all over the surface. This is very frustrating about it and cleaning a stainless steel countertop will seem like going in circles and that is not what you want to do.

Travertine Countertops

Travertine is a beautiful stone that is derived from limestone itself. It is a wonderful material that has patterns similar to a cross between limestone and marble itself. However, it can also stain over time and it doesn’t lead to the best of results.

Similar to patina on marble, travertine can turn yellow as the years go by, but it won’t be pleasant. It will make the stone look old and that is not what you want. This is why you need to choose something else that won’t lose its original color as time passes by.

Wood Countertops

Wood is a beautiful and classic option and even though it is highly expensive, it is still something that people rave about. The higher cost is not the only concern for many people because you need to spend even more money to maintain wood countertops.

You need to seal it, tint it, polish it, and do countless other things to ensure that it stays in amazing condition. Well, that can be impossible at times and not everyone has time on their hands to do things like these, regularly.

Concrete Countertops

Concrete countertops are amazing. They’re heat resistant and they have a very rustic look to them. But what makes concrete a thumbs-down? Well, it’s the fact that it stains like there’s no tomorrow.

If you know anything about concrete, then you would know that it absorbs moisture and water like a sponge. So, you better believe that concrete will suck in all of the water available on the surface and then it will lead to stains. This is why it’s recommended that you go for something else.

Tiles

When it comes to tile, the look is sleek and effortless, but the main concerning factor is are grout lines. Even though you can hire the best of the best contractors for the job, you will still feel like making the grout look clean is harder than you can imagine.

This is why you need to skip tiles, because not only is grout a problem, but it can also get very dirty and the once-white grout can turn murky and black in no time, which sounds disgusting.

Laminate Countertops

Laminate is a material that is everyone’s dream. It is a reasonably priced material that can mimic almost all looks of stones, materials, and man-made things on Earth. So, why is laminate such a bad choice? Well, because it’s not the best quality. See, laminate is prone to discolor and fade over time and that is something that bothers a lot of people.

Also, it’s not the most durable when it comes to heat and it will lead to heat stains, which is very unfortunate because removing them is almost impossible. So, laminate might be easy on the wallet, but not so much on the eyes.

Limestone Countertops

Limestone is also a very good material for the kitchen, but there are a handful of things that don’t sit well with a lot of people. First of all, it is very high maintenance. It needs almost as much maintenance as any other natural stone.

If that wasn’t enough, then limestone also doesn’t do well with heat and it can lead to blisters on the surface that look very hideous. Lastly, limestone is a soft stone, so using sharp knives won’t be the best of decisions, if you don’t want scratches to become a permanent thing.

Bamboo Countertops

Bamboo is an amazing material on the surface, but not so much when it comes to design and creativity. It is a serious bummer for people who love wooden countertops because bamboo isn’t as versatile when it comes to design options.

There are a couple of options that you can choose from and that’s pretty much it. Also, bamboo needs regular sealing and maintenance because at the end of the day, it is a wooden countertop and it needs to be treated like one too. So, bamboo isn’t the greatest of materials.

Conclusion

These countertops are amazing, but there are certain things like fragility, price, maintenance, and other things that need to be considered and they don’t do so well in these departments.

Still, if you love a quality of a certain material like the beauty of marble, the durability of stainless steel/concrete, the cost-effectiveness of laminate, or the sustainability of wood/bamboo/glass, then you can choose that material but beware of the disadvantages as well. If you want an indoor kitchen countertop material with the least downsides, take a look at granite and quartz countertops or consult countertop replacement services Potomac.

24

Oct

How To Pick A Countertop Material For Your Outdoor Kitchen?

If you’re thinking of redoing your outdoor space and want to build a backyard kitchen, then one of the important things is figuring out the countertop material you need for your outdoor kitchen. The most popular choice is granite countertops but is it the only option? Here is what to know.

What To Know When Choosing A Countertop For An Outdoor Kitchen?

Before diving into the materials that are good for outdoor kitchen countertops, you need to understand what makes a countertop material good and what doesn’t. So, here are all the things you need to consider when choosing a material.

The Durability

The durability of a countertop material matters the most. Having a durable countertop material in an indoor kitchen is one thing, but you need to give durability even more consideration if you are to choose a countertop surface for an outdoor kitchen.

An outdoor kitchen is exposed to all kinds of elements and you want to ensure that you’re choosing a material that can withstand everything and last long for years to come. The last thing you need is a countertop material that you will need to replace every so often because it fades or cracks with heat, cold, moisture, or sunlight.

Resistance To Outdoor Elements

As mentioned previously, an outdoor kitchen is exposed to outdoor elements, beaming sunlight, downpours, and dryness. These things aren’t necessarily a problem in an indoor kitchen, but in an outdoor kitchen, you need to be able to factor in all of these things to ensure that you’re choosing a material that will be able to endure all of the harsh and continuous conditions of the weather.

So, this is important to do and you need to compare materials based on their resistance to heat, UV light rays, and even dryness because it will make a difference.

Water Resistance

The next most important bit to go over is the water resistance of a countertop material. Usually, natural stones and man-made materials are the best countertop materials out there, but natural stones are not resistant to water damage because they are naturally porous. So, you either have to seal them or you need to opt for materials that don’t have that problem altogether like stainless steel and porcelain tiles or slabs.

Water may look harmless, but it can spoil and damage the material from the inside and in an outdoor kitchen, you need to give water resistance more importance because it can be the difference between longevity and premature damage.

Now, natural stones may not be water-resistant, but they are still some of the best options for outdoor kitchens so don’t rule them out.

Price

The next bit to go over is the price of the countertop material you’re going for in the outdoor kitchen. Your budget is really important when it comes to buying a countertop material for your outdoor kitchen. Outdoor countertop materials often do cost a bit more, and that is because they are specifically treated to last longer in the kitchen and outside.

So, when you’re considering materials for your outdoor kitchen, make sure that you know what each of them costs, so you can create a budget accordingly. If you can’t afford it, then everything is pretty much pointless.

Maintenance

You also want to choose a material that doesn’t need to be maintained too frequently. Now, a couple of months later, maintenance is overdue and that is pretty normal, but what isn’t is the fact that you need to slave over the material day in and day out because without it, the material will wither away.

Best Materials For Outdoor Kitchen Countertops

Now that you know what things you need to look out for, here are some of the countertop materials that are considered excellent for an outdoor kitchen.

Granite

The first and most amazing material for an outdoor kitchen is the beautiful and strong granite. Granite is a natural stone that is made out of melted rocks and minerals under high temperature and pressure and the result is a rock so beautiful and mesmerizing that you can’t help but want it in your kitchen.

It is a very strong material and the best part is that it lasts for years to come without any major problems. The only downside to this material is the price and the maintenance it needs.

Stainless Steel

If you want to say goodbye to the maintenance and the looking after of countertop material, then stainless steel countertops will take care of everything. Stainless steel is pretty much the answer to all of your countertop and outdoor kitchen-related problems.

The material is non-porous, it doesn’t need to be sealed or maintained in any way, it’s beautiful, especially if you’re someone who loves an industrial and minimal look, and it’s overall very strong. So, if you have a bit of room in your budget, then definitely go for stainless steel, because you can set it and forget it.

But keep in mind that stainless steel gets cold to touch in winter and becomes very warm under direct sunlight.

Glass

If you’re looking for another maintenance-free option in countertops, then glass won’t disappoint you. Glass is a very beautiful and hassle-free material and it is one of the best options you can go for because it does not need to be cleaned and it’s also amazing when it comes to longevity.

The only downside of glass countertops is the fact that it is, infamously, prone to breakage. If you let it out and something falls on top of the countertops with a reasonable impact, then it can shatter, so that’s just something you need to look out for.

Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are also a great option when it comes to outdoor kitchen countertops. Tiles are mostly very easy to install and even though they are not as strong as thick slabs of rock or man-made material, it is very easily replaceable, so much so that you can even do so by yourself.

Porcelain tiles are also available in many designs and patterns so you can choose any color or pattern you want.

The only problem with tile is the fact that it can be hard to clean, especially around the crevices of the tile, because the space between the tile, also known as grout can be hard to reach into and clean.

If you like porcelain as a countertop surface but not tiles, you can also choose porcelain slabs that don’t have grout lines. However, if you like tiles, you can also look into stone tiles like granite tiles, marble tiles, and can also ask for concrete tiles. But they won’t be water-resistant whereas porcelain tiles and slabs are.

Quartzite

Lastly, quartzite is another natural stone that people often confuse with quartz. Quartz is a man-made material and it’s not a good choice for outdoors since it doesn’t have natural UV protection and sunlight can make the material dull.

However, with quartzite, you won’t have to face any of these problems because it is a durable, waterproof, and stain-resistant material that will surprise you with its qualities and strength.

Conclusion

An outdoor kitchen needs to be sturdy, otherwise, it won’t last long. As you’re choosing durable materials like concrete and stainless steel for other parts of the kitchen, don’t forget to pick a sturdy option when it comes to your outdoor kitchen countertops. Get in touch with a granite contractor Potomac to take a look at various options and choose the right one.

05

Jun

Which Countertop Materials Are The Most Durable?

The best kitchen countertop materials are those that last long and can stand against almost anything that kitchen prep throws at them. Granite countertops are the most popular, but are they also the most durable? Here is a list of countertop materials ranging from the most durable to the least.

Most Durable Countertop Materials

Quartz

The most durable countertops of them all is none other than quartz. This man-made material is seriously a titan in the kitchen. It requires almost zero maintenance. It doesn’t need to be sealed because it’s not porous and it can also resist heat and scratches better than many. So, that makes quartz a clear winner in the kitchen.

Moreover, you don’t need to handle quartz with kid’s gloves or invest in specialty products to clean the surfaces daily. A bit of water and soap goes a long way.

However, there are still some downsides. For instance, quartz excellent for indoor kitchen but not for outdoor kitchens.

Moreover, quartz is usually available in light colors. From light grays, beige, off-white to stark white. Now, a lot of the time, people want a bit darker color to play with and there may be some limitations. Other than that, if you’re looking for a material that will outlast everything, then quartz is your best bet.

Granite

You might have thought that granite would get the top spot in the list of most durable countertops, but quartz beat it to the punch. However, granite is just as durable as quartz and it’s also long-lasting. Then why isn’t it on the top spot? you may ask.

Well, the maintenance required for this natural stone is what makes people skitter away. Since it’s a natural stone, granite has lots of pores on the surface. These pores can suck water and moisture in and ruin the stone. This is why sealing granite countertops is a must. It not only gives the countertops a shiny surface but also makes them last longer.

As far as regular cleaning is concerned, granite has a sensitivity to acids and harsh chemicals, so you need to get pH-balanced cleaners for it to remain undamaged and most of all, clean.

Solid Surface

Solid surface is another man-made option that’s durable and long-lasting. Solid surface is made out of pulverized rocks mixed in with clear resin and pigments to give the countertops a dash of color.

This rock-hard material is resistant to scratches, stains, and water damage, so there’s no need for you to seal these babies.

The only downside would be that solid surface doesn’t do well with heat. It can get damaged by heat if you constantly put hot pots and pans on the surface. Heat stains are almost impossible to remove and they can ruin the look of your perfect countertops. So, it’s better to protect them with cutting boards and trivets.

Concrete

Concrete is a very versatile and reasonable option to go for. Concrete is hydrophilic, so it loves moisture and it will absorb any moisture in the surroundings within minutes if not seconds. So, sealing these countertops is a must.

Concrete countertops also have great resistance against pressure and heat, so you can deal with hot food all you want on this countertop material and it won’t budge. It also endures scratches well, so you won’t have a scratched-up surface at the end of the day. The best part? You can get it in any color and shape you want.

Tile

Tile countertops are durable too. Don’t let the wafer-thinness fool you. Some porcelain tiles are durable and long lasting. One of the things that make tile countertops amazing is the fact that they’re really easy to install. Say goodbye to handling huge slabs and welcome tiles because tiles are manageable and you can even install them by yourself if you have a bit of time and skills.

Tiles also perform well under heat and pressure, although they can break or crack easily, especially ceramic tiles which are not recommended for kitchen countertops. However, if your countertop tile cracks, it’s not something to worry about since you can easily replace the broken tile with a new one.

Stainless Steel

If you’re looking for a minimal countertop material that will make your kitchen look professional, then stainless steel is the one to choose. Stainless steel is also pretty amazing considering that you don’t need to worry about waterproofing or anything like that. However, fingerprints, hand smudges, scratches will be an issue with stainless steel. Because of its mirror-like shine, it can reflect smudges a lot clearly and you have to clean them.

Not to mention, stainless steel is pretty hefty in price, as it is in quality, so you’ll need to have a comfortable budget for this material.

Not So Durable Materials

Now some materials which are not that durable and you should think twice before investing in them.

Wood

Hardwood is not the best material to use in the kitchen and there are a couple of reasons why. Firstly, wood is not great against water and moisture. So, it will get ruined sooner because of mold and fungus. Also, hardwood isn’t naturally stain-resistant so you need to seal the countertops right after installation.

Hardwood, on the flip side, is amazing against heat. It can endure high temperatures without any damage, so that’s the quality that makes this material a somewhat good choice, but other than that, you might want to explore other durable options for countertops in the kitchen. If you’re dead set on installing a wood countertop, then look for wood types that do well against moisture.

Marble

Marble is a beautiful natural stone with looks that will make everyone stare in awe, but it’s not as durable as other natural stones like granite and limestone. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that marble needs a lot of maintenance and it’s a soft and fragile material that gets chipped and cracked under even the slightest of pressure. So, marble is even worse when it comes to maintenance than granite.

Therefore, if you’re not a fan of constantly maintaining a countertop material instead of working on it, then it’s best that you don’t go for it.

On the bright side, marble does perform well under a lot of heat, since it’s a natural stone and it’s made inside the boiling depths of the Earth. And as said earlier, marble slabs are extremely beautiful.

Soapstone

Soapstone, a slippery soft material is great against heat and water damage. However, it scratches extremely easily. It’s even softer than marble, so using a sharp knife directly on the surface of soapstone will result in deep scratches that look hideous. Also, if you want to install soapstone in your kitchen, then regular sealing is a must.

Laminate

If you’re looking for a cheap and reasonable countertop material, then laminate is a great choice. It’s popular among people mainly because of its low price and reasonable longevity.

Laminate is made out of layers of plywood and there’s a decorative layer on top and this is where all the magic happens. This decorative layer can be made into any countertop design known to man. So, you can get the look of granite, marble, quartz, or anything for half the price. That’s pretty amazing in the books of the majority of people.

Conclusion

The first 6 materials are amazing for investing in your kitchen because they will last for a long time. The other four are also fine, but not as durable. if you want the best of them, pick granite or quartz countertops. Moreover, choose reliable countertop replacement services Rockville for high-quality slabs and perfect installation.

24

May

10 Countertop Materials You Can Choose In Place Of Marble

Marble is a beautiful countertop material, but since it’s an expensive material, a lot of people can’t afford it. Those who can, still want an option that looks like marble or more durable than marble, but with a lower price tag. If you want countertop materials similar to marble, then you’re at the right place. Hint: some are even better than marble such as granite and quartz countertops. Let’s begin!

Alternatives To Marble Countertops

Quartz

If marble isn’t in your budget and you just can’t deal with the mountain of maintenance it needs, then you can skip it and go for a very durable, beautiful, and simple quartz.

Quartz is a man-made material made out of natural quartz, minerals, and resin all packed together to give a countertop that is so strong that it will outlive everything else. You can get quartz in a variety of colors too, but if you want to stick to the light marble theme, then quartz has tons of options for you to choose from.

The light background with the contrasting subtle veining is to die for and you will love the look of it in your kitchen. It’s certainly the closest material to marble as far as looks are concerned and it’s also one of the most long-lasting ones, so you know that you won’t need to slave over its maintenance.

Onyx

Even though its name is anything but light, onyx comes in a lot of light colors too and one of the striking resemblances it has to marble is the fact that it looks very much like the fragile stone, but it’s anything but. The color variety of onyx will leave you confused in the best way and you can rest assured that these slabs will last long in the kitchen.

Another great thing about onyx is that it’s very resistant to heat, so say goodbye to those heat stains.

The only downside is that it needs to be sealed because the surface of onyx has a lot of pores that tend to suck water and moisture in. This can ruin your countertops. So, seal them and you will be good to go.

Quartzite

It sounds like quartz, but it’s natural stone and it looks just like marble. If you want to get your hands on a natural stone, since marble is one too, you’re going to love quartzite countertops. Quartzite has that soft and rough and tough finish that perfect quartz doesn’t have and it looks amazing in the kitchen.

It also has a decent color variety and since it’s primarily available in lighter colors, you can get your hands on muted hues. However, just like any other natural stone, you will need to make it waterproof by sealing it. It’s a measure that will make it long-lasting.

Granite

Next in line is granite. Now, you might be thinking: How does granite make a good alternative to marble? It’s dark! Well, granite is available in lighter colors too and you can get amazing slabs in muted colors with the same natural beauty that everyone knows and loves about marble. And the plus point is that granite is more rigid and durable than marble.

There is also subtle veining and mosaic patterns on granite that add that extra layer of something-something to your countertops. Moreover, many types and qualities of granite are cheaper than marble.

Soapstone

Just like its name, soapstone is light, soft, and slippery in the best way. If you want something that looks like marble but has the feel of butter, then soapstone is the material for you. It is soft to the touch and the random subtle and heavy veining just takes this material to the next level.

Be warned though because soapstone is a very fragile material and it can be chipped or cracked if you put too much pressure on it. So, try to take it easy on the poor material and don’t use sharp knives directly on the surface of soapstone and also don’t put heavy items on it if you don’t want scratches or cracks on the surface.

Concrete

White concrete can also mimic the appearance of marble, that is if you do it right. White concrete is available in either pre-made slabs or you can get them fabricated and even add veining to give it that marble-like appeal.

Concrete is a highly porous material though and it can darken over time, especially if you get it wet a lot, so you’ll need to have it sealed and polished after every couple of months. However, it is a much cheaper, but durable option as compared to marble. So, there are many good things going for concrete.

Neolith

Neolith is a new material in the realm of countertops, but it’s getting more and more popular. It is made out of pulverized quartz, glass, and porcelain and it’s a lightweight and durable option for those who want their countertops to look like that of marble. It also has a reasonable price and it is affordable to install. Since it’s lightweight, most people can install it by themselves too.

To add to the qualities of neolith, it is also heat resistant, so all in all, it’s a great material for someone who wants marble-like countertops, but on a budget.

Porcelain

The beautiful porcelain! Even though porcelain slabs are seldom used in kitchens, you can still see the similarities between porcelain and marble. It’s a material that screams “opulence” and “indulgence” and the iridescent look and light color of porcelain will steal your heart.

However, it’s not as strong as the other options. It can chip pretty easily, so it might not be the best option for the kitchen. However, you can safely use it in the bathroom as countertops and vanities and that will look amazing. Porcelain can also be used to make shower fixtures.

But if you only want porcelain for kitchen countertops, there are some varieties that are tougher which can use.

Solid Surface

A durable, man-made option is solid surface. This material is pulverized minerals and resin all sealed together in a rock-hard thing of beauty. The light color is very similar to marble and it also has the option of veining like marble and natural stone countertops.

Solid surface is pretty much robust and indestructible. It’s heat resistant, it doesn’t stain, it doesn’t scratch and it also has built-in UV protection to prevent darkening of the countertops.

Vinyl

If you want a material that is affordable and can mimic almost all of the countertops known to man, then vinyl is the one you want to go for. It’s a combination of plywood slabs and decorative sheets on top. These sheets are magical things because you can print any countertop design on them, stick them onto the panel and call it a day.

It’s probably the cheapest option available so you can safely that it’s not as durable as other options on this list.

Conclusion

Who says you can’t get the beauty of marble countertops at a much more reasonable price? Now you can choose from a list of materials that look strikingly similar to marble. If you want the best options, choose granite or quartz. Get in touch with quartz countertop contractors Potomac to take a look at various light-colored quartz slabs.

20

Jan

Why Quartz Countertops Are A Bad Choice For Outdoor Kitchens?

Quartz seems to be the titan of the countertops realm, with its unmatched durability, excellent longevity, and overall performance. But is this countertop material good for outdoor kitchen just as granite countertops are? Well, let’s see if quartz can handle the giant fireball, aka the sun.

Yes, Quartz Is Not Fit For The Outdoors

If you were thinking about building an outdoor kitchen and keeping quartz countertops in the blazing sunlight, then you might want to take a step back and rethink. Quartz countertops, even though they’re amazing for indoors and there aren’t a lot of stones that can match the qualities quartz has, are still not good for outdoor kitchens.

Why, you ask? Well, it’s going to fade away quickly in the sunlight and it will not look as appealing as it did before. Some things just aren’t meant for use in the sun, and quartz is one of them.

UV Light Damage

The main culprit that inflicts damage on quartz countertops is the sun’s rays. The UV rays of the sun are as bad for the countertops as they are for humans and their skin. Same with skin, if you keep the countertops outside for too long, they’re going to become dull and fade in color and in some cases, the quartz can become very brittle and fragile. So, it’s best that you don’t use them outside at all.

Minimal sunlight is alright, but anything too direct and exposed for too long can turn your beautiful quartz countertops into an ugly faded mess. UV rays from the sun affect the resin and pigments of the quartz countertops making them extremely dark and splotchy on the surface.

Shade Is Necessary

If you want to install quartz countertops outside, then you need to keep them in the shade. Direct sunlight isn’t good for anything, especially when it’s not protected properly. So, proper shade will be the safest option, however, it won’t guarantee that the countertops will remain in pristine condition as they would if they’re inside. This is mostly a last resort if you’re dead set to install quartz countertops in your outdoor kitchen.

Light Quartz Vs Dark Quartz

Another way by which you can suppress the damage of quartz countertops in sunlight is by getting lighter-colored quartz. Darker quartz can react more violently with sunlight and the pigment and resin combination can lose its potency way faster than its lighter-colored counterpart.

Dark quartz will also show the damages prominently whereas lighter quartz is a lot more forgiving. So, if you want to bite the bullet and get quartz countertops for the outdoor grill or kitchen, then consider lighter colors because they’re going to last a bit longer.

It’s Not Heat Resistant

If you didn’t know this already, quartz is not a naturally heat-resistant material. Quartz is an engineered stone and it’s made by combining and sealing resin with pulverized rocks and pigment, which gives the stone its characteristic appearance. Almost all man-made stones have bad heat resistance.

Nothing matches the heat resistance of natural stones because they’re made naturally inside the ground where the temperatures are astronomically high and the pressures are unbearable. You can’t expect quartz to match anywhere near this quality of natural stones. This is also another major reason why quartz doesn’t last as long in sunlight and it gets faded.

Amazing Qualities Of Quartz Countertops But Not For The Outdoors

Quartz can’t last in the sunlight. So what? The material itself is not bad. Quartz is still a very durable and reasonable material that will make wonderful and long-lasting countertops for indoor kitchens. Here are some qualities of quartz that are make it so popular.

Durable

Quartz is a highly durable material. It can last anywhere between 15 to 30 years if you take good care of the surface. Buying quartz countertops is a one-time investment and you will not regret this purchase because it’s going to pay off. This is why it’s a fan favorite among people.

Comparatively Affordable

Quartz is not as expensive as other materials. Natural stones, even though they also have amazing qualities, just aren’t as affordable as quartz and if you compare them with the qualities and things quartz has to offer, then you’ll know exactly which choice is better.

People can justify the cost of quartz, because it’s durable and doesn’t need a lot of maintenance whereas some natural stones are also durable but they need more maintenance than quartz.

Quartz countertops don’t need to be sealed every few years. You can set it and forget it because these bad boys are going to stay put for as long as you want.

Easy To Clean

There aren’t a lot of countertops that can match this quality of quartz. Let’s face it; no one wants to slave over kitchen countertops with a washcloth at all times. So, it’s comforting to know that quartz won’t put you through this trouble at all. It’s truly a magnificent material that requires little to no maintenance.

You just need to take care of daily cleaning and getting the countertops polished every year or so, and you’re pretty much set for a long time. Now that’s what you can call “low-maintenance”.

Better Alternatives To Use In Outdoor Kitchens

If you’re looking for countertop alternatives to use outside, then these options are going to be the best:

Granite Countertops

Lo and behold! Granite is a stone that knows no damage, especially the one inflicted by the blazing sun. Granite has a very high heat resistance which is not a quality you see in a lot of stones and it can take the heat of the sun like a champ.

There’s no need for you to worry about discoloration, fading, or damage to the countertops because granite can endure temperatures and harsh weather with finesse, so your kitchen will always look dazzling as long as you seal and maintain it properly.

Porcelain Slab Countertops

Porcelain is another great option to use outdoors. This material is also very shiny and it has a very opulent feel to it. So, the kitchen will feel glossy and luxurious. One thing that you need to keep in mind about porcelain slabs, is the fact they are not waterproof. You will need to seal them to protect the beautiful countertops from food stains and moisture.

This is the only drawback of this seemingly perfect material, and other than that, porcelain works like a wonder in an outdoor kitchen. If you like tiles, you also get a porcelain tile countertop that is waterproof.

Concrete Countertops

This option is great for all of you lovers of rugged countertops out there. Concrete is a very popular countertop material choice for outdoor kitchens. It’s appealing, it has that rustic appeal to it and it doesn’t need to be colored or stained whatsoever because the natural color of concrete doesn’t fade away in the sunlight. And the countertop will be as durable as the walls of the kitchen.

The only downside is that this material is extremely porous and it can absorb water, among other things, like a literal sponge. So, this makes sealing necessary because you not only want to protect the countertops from water damage, but infestation of bacteria and viruses too.

Conclusion

Quartz countertops are not fit for outdoor kitchens. Looks like it’s a score for the sun and a loss for quartz. But you can use granite countertops that are also extremely popular. Discuss it more with a granite installer Rockville.