Everything You Need to Know About Quartz Countertops: Pros and Cons

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Salerno - Metro Quartz Countertop

Salerno – Metro Quartz Countertop

If you are in the market for a new countertop, you may wonder if quartz is the right choice. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about quartz countertops: pros and cons! We will also provide some tips on how to choose the right quartz countertop for your home.

Quartz countertops are made from natural quartz, which is a hard rock. They are extremely durable and can withstand heavy use. Quartz is also non-porous, so they do not require sealing and are easy to clean. Additionally, quartz comes in many colors and styles, making it a popular choice for kitchen countertops.

However, there are some downsides to consider before choosing quartz countertops. First, they can be expensive compared to other types of countertops. Second, if they are damaged or scratched, it can be difficult to repair them. Lastly, since quartz is a harder material than other stones used for countertops (like granite), it may be more difficult to cut and install.

Quartz is similar in hardness to granite, but it isn’t as heat resistant. If you want to cook a lot on your counters, granite may be a superior choice.

If you’re looking for a durable, stylish and easy-to-maintain countertop material, quartz might be the right choice for you. But be sure to weigh the pros and cons before making your final decision.

Pros:

  1. Non-porous (doesn’t require sealing)
  2. Easy to clean
  3. Comes in many colors and styles
  4. Scratch Resistant

Cons:

  1. Susceptible to high heat
  2. Difficult to repair if damaged
  3. Seams are visible
  4. Cold to the touch
Magnifica Porcelain Countertop

Most Popular Kitchen Countertop Materials

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Bianco Venatino Quartzite from Arizona Tile

Bianco Venatino Quartzite from Arizona Tile

 

There are many types of countertops on the market for kitchens. The most common types are quartz, porcelain, quartzite, solid surface, granite, and marble. They all have their own pros and cons. For example, some materials are scratch resistant, while others can be scratched or marred easily. And some materials are more expensive than others.

Here are the most popular kitchen countertops materials.

Quartz

Quartz is a manufactured stone that contains as much as 93 percent quartz particles and other minerals, molded into slabs, and bound with resins, making it a type of engineered stone. These aren’t real quartz slabs quarried from the earth.

Quartz was designed as a more adaptable and better-performing substitute to granite and marble by firms such as DuPont and Cosentino. It is available in a wider range of colors than granite and has a nonporous surface that resists scratching and staining. Some types are convincing imitations of natural marble with comparable veining. Engineered quartz does not require annual sealing, unlike natural stone.

Porcelain

Porcelain is a type of ceramic with properties such as hardness, longevity, heat resistance, and color fastness. While porcelain may be used for kitchen countertops, there are certain drawbacks. There isn’t much depth in surface designs, so if a porcelain countertop is scratched, the pattern will be disrupted/damaged, and the fact that it only runs surface deep will be revealed. When compared to other more substantial-appearing materials like granite, marble, or quartz, porcelain counters are usually very thin.

Porcelain is scratch-resistant and has a long-life span. It is also resistant to heat and stains. Counters made of porcelain are available in assorted colors and designs. They’re also simple to maintain and keep clean.

Quartzite

Quartzite is metamorphic rock. It develops naturally when sandstone or chert with a high quartz content is subjected to tremendous heat and pressure. Quartzite, which usually has a quartz content of more than 90%, can reach 99%. It is heat and scratch resistant but is susceptible to staining.

Quartzite has a glassy sheen and, in some cases, resembles marble. Quartzite is one of the most popular countertop materials for its beautiful look.

Solid Surface

Solid-surface material, also known as Corian, Staron, HI-MACS and Avonite, is a man-made product consisting of a blend of acrylic particles and resins pressed into sheets and other forms. Solid surface countertops and sinks have been around for almost 50 years, but when they were first introduced, they were space-age alternatives to natural stone, which they sought to imitate.

Solid-surface material is stain scratch resistant. Keep heat away from solid surface as not to damage the surface. The main advantage is the ability to repair and refinish, along with a seamless appearance.

Granite

Granite has long been the go-to countertop material when there were no financial concerns to consider. Granites are elegant in a kitchen. When granite worktops are utilized, even tiny kitchens seem like luxury apartments.

Granite has long been an expensive material, although its expense has dropped as supplies have grown and engineered stone has become more common.

The material is resistant to heat and scratches. Granite surfaces require special attention because they are susceptible to staining.

Marble

Marble is a popular stone for kitchen countertops. Because no two pieces of marble are identical, each marble countertop is one-of-a-kind.

Marble has the advantage of looking beautiful and being exceptionally durable, but it may stain and scratch easily. Marble’s sensitivity to stains and scratches makes it a less desirable material for kitchens than granite or soapstone.

Quartz vs Quartzite Countertops, What’s The Difference?

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Bianco Aspen - Metro Quartz Countertop

Bianco Aspen – Metro Quartz Countertop

The main distinction between quartz and quartzite is the fact that quartz is a manufactured material while quartzite is a natural stone. Sandstone is converted to quartzite through a natural process of heat and pressure in which sparkling quartz crystals are fused with it.

Quartzite is usually white or light gray, but minerals in the stone can produce pink, gold, or crimson-brown hues.

Quartz countertops are made of quartz crystals that have been bonded with resins, pigments, and other materials such as shards of glass by a man-made process. The countertop material is an exceptionally durable, non-porous surface composed of quartz crystals. Quartz comes in a variety of colors and patterns.

Aside from the considerable composition distinctions, the stylistic ones are also significant. Quartzite is frequently confused with marble or granite. It has the same delicate veining and coloration as marble, although it lacks the granular texture of marble. A quartzite countertop may be used to provide a natural appearance with a lot of motion.

Quartz can be made to resemble any stone and comes in a variety of colors and designs. If you want your slab to match a certain color or have a consistent design throughout, quartz is probably the best choice for your home.

The care procedure and longevity of quartz vs. quartzite are two more significant distinctions between the two materials. Quartz’s strength stems from its binding process, which helps to extract air and results in a non-porous, chip-resistant surface.

Quartzite is a hard stone. It is less dense than quartz and will stain in high-use areas. Quartzite must be sealed to avoid stains, but quartz does not.

Quartz is a popular choice for countertops due to its versatility and durability. If you enjoy having numerous alternatives and a dependable, consistent appearance to your counters; or if you’re looking for a long-lasting material that won’t break the bank, quartz may be the answer.

However, if you don’t mind a little upkeep in return for a beautiful, one-of-a-kind natural appearance, our quartzite countertops are worth considering.

So, what’s the difference between quartz and quartzite countertops? The main difference is that quartzite is a natural stone made from sandstone, while quartz is manufactured using ground-up quartz crystals. Quartzite is more durable than quartz and can withstand high temperatures, making it a good choice for kitchens or bathrooms with open flames (like gas stoves). If you’re looking for a beautiful, natural stone countertop that will last for years, go with quartzite; if you’re after a sleek, modern look, choose quartz instead. Ready to start shopping? Give us a call today!

Quartz, Porcelain and Granite Countertops Seams – Top 10 Tips

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Quartz Seam

Poor Seam Quality

Many homeowners are interested in quartz, porcelain, and granite countertops for their homes. Both types of countertops offer a durable, elegant finish that can last for many years with proper care.

However, one thing to consider when choosing between these two materials is the seams. Seams are where the countertop material is joined together, and they can be more visible on certain types of stone than others.

Here are our top tips for making your quartz or granite countertop seams as inconspicuous as possible.

  1. Realistic Expectations – Have realistic expectations of the material. Although a good seam should be inconspicuous, do not expect it to be invisible. A seam in granite and quartz countertops will always be something that you can both see and feel. (Seam quality in picture to right is unacceptable.)
  2. Color and Pattern – The color and pattern selected can make a difference in the appearance of the seam. Light colors (white, beige, light grays) with a solid or small pattern will have more conspicuous seams than a material with multiple colors and patterns.
  3. See a Sample – Be sure your fabricator shows you a sample of their seam quality. A fabricator should either have a showroom that you can go to and view a seam, or they should provide a list of past clients willing to let you come to their home and see the quality of work installed.
  4. Seam Location – There is some controversy about whether a seam should be put in the middle of a sink or cooktop cut out. Some fabricators feel the seam is more vulnerable to breakage in those areas. However, if you prefer to have a seam in one or both locations, ask your fabricator if the material can handle such a small seam.
  5. Seam Layout – Seam layouts should be done before cutting material. Your fabricator should know the length and width of your material and should determine the exact position prior to cutting. If you prefer, discuss the seam location when the fabricator is making the pattern (template) for your countertop. Be sure to be present while they are doing final field measurements, so you can discuss seam location.
  6. Epoxy Seams – Countertop deck seams should be bonded with an epoxy similar in color(s) to the granite / quartz material. Deck seams should not be bonded with silicone.
  7. “Industry Standards” – This is a fancy term used to say the seam is “Good Enough”. Industry standards recommend deck seams can be up to 1/16” wide with a +/- tolerance of 1/64”. Veteran fabricators work to achieve a much tighter fit.
  8. granite seam lippage

    Quartz Seam Lippage

    Lippage – A good seam should be level. Many times, fabricators encounter un-level cabinets, varied slab thickness, and bowed or warped material. This requires the fabricator to shim the countertops or modify the material to get a quality seam. Even minor amounts of lippage are noticeable and sometimes unavoidable due to permanent warp in the material.

  9. Final Positioning – When your fabricator installs your countertops, it’s not typical to have the seam fit perfectly the first time. Most fabricators will layout the tops and do a “dry fit” the first time, and then take the tops out of the house to make slight modifications. This may need to be done multiple times to achieve a great fit. This is normal, and you should not be alarmed.
  10. See It Yourself – Be sure to be present on the day your fabricator installs the countertops. If you have any concerns about the appearance of the seam, it can be addressed immediately before countertops have been permanently set in place.

Quartz, porcelain and granite countertops are a popular choice for many homeowners. When selecting a countertop, it is important to consider the seams. These are our top 10 tips to help you choose the best quartz or granite countertop for your home.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call or text today. Our team would be happy to help you find the perfect countertop for your home.

Stainless Steel Sinks – Can They Rust?

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Stainless steel sinks are beautiful, stylish, and functional additions to any kitchen. They are sleek, good-looking, and easy to care for, and they complement the natural, organic aesthetic of a granite or quartz countertop.

Many homeowners are curious if stainless steel sinks rust. The answer is yes, but it depends on the grade of stainless steel. The common grade for kitchen sinks is Austenitic stainless steel, which is classified as 304 by the American Iron and Steel Institute’s AISI. When investing in a new sink, it is important to realize that not all 304 grade stainless products are created equal.

304 Stainless Steel Grades

Steel with the composition of 18 percent chromium and 8 percent nickel is the most used steel for sinks. This type of steel contains enough chromium to create a barrier against oxygen and moisture, which can cause corrosion and rust. Chromium also provides resistance to stress corrosion and cracking.

Rust Prevention

Stainless steel sinks can and do rust. Prevent damage by caring for your new sink properly.

  • Leaving cast iron cookware in your sink for any length of time will because iron particles attach to the sink, causing the appearance of rust. Instead, promptly wash the cookware, dry it and remove it from your sink.
  • Always air-dry dishes on your countertop, not in the sink.
  • Never use steel wool to scour your stainless sink – steel wool breaks apart and will leave particles behind that will cause rust.
  • Opening a can of vegetables or soup and leaving it in the sink will cause a ring to appear. Your best bet is to try not to leave items in your sink.
  • After using your sink, clean it with the cleansers specifically formulated for stainless sinks, which will keep particles from attaching to the sink and giving the appearance of rust.
  • Always rinse cleaning products away thoroughly to keep them from drying on the surface and degrading the finish.
  • If your sink has yet to be used and already contains tiny, scattered rust stains, clean it as soon after installation as feasible.

Even with care, your sink may develop rust through no fault of yours. Purchasing quality sink products that don’t opt to use less nickel or replace it with other cheaper alloys will ensure that your sink lasts and provides years of rust-free beauty in your kitchen.

Sink Comparison

Kitchen Countertop Sink Type Comparison

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Are you in the market for a new kitchen countertop sink? If so, you’re probably wondering how to choose the right one for your needs. In this blog post, we’ll compare four popular sink styles – undermount, top mount, seamed-in and farmstyle– to help you make the best decision for your home. Keep reading to learn more!

Real estate experts and other design experts in the housing industry stress that kitchens and bathrooms add value to a home. People also renovate their kitchens to make them more functional and to reflect their current lifestyle and needs.

The sink is one of the most important parts of a good room design, and according to Consumer Reports Sink Buying Guide, most people fall in love with the style of a sink before thinking about functionality. Home designers explain that this is the wrong way to go about choosing any type of sink. Although the appliances are the flashiest part of a kitchen design, the sink is equally important because realistically, much of the time spent in that room is spent at the sink.

Top Mount

These are the sinks that are installed after the countertop is in place. These sinks are the most reasonable in price and are suitable for any type of countertop surface. The main disadvantage is the amount of grime that builds up around the sink, and they detract from the look of more sophisticated counters.

Undermount Sinks

Undermount sinks are the most common. Unlike top-mount sinks which are installed from above, undermount sinks are installed below the countertop. Because there is lip that overhangs and may accumulate dirt, it is easy to wipe a counter off. The mounting method may mean that the sink is a bit lower. They are more expensive to purchase and are not suitable for surfaces that aren’t waterproof — including laminate surfaces and most wood.

Seamed-In

Solid surface or seamed-in sinks are created out of the same material as a countertop. This all-in-one product adheres to the bottom of the countertop, creating a seamless, one piece for both the countertop and sink. There is no visible seam. This option is perfect for people looking for a low maintenance sink.

Farmstyle Sink

The style is also known as an apron-front sink because the front of the sink is exposed. These deep sinks are very stylish and complement country-style or traditional style kitchen designs very well. This style requires a special cabinet, and the sinks themselves are expensive.

So, if you’re in the market for a new sink, be sure to think about both style and function. And if you need help finding the perfect sink for your home, don’t hesitate to give us a call or text today. We would be happy to assist you in finding the best sink for your needs and budget.

Tile Backsplash Top Ten Tips

Tile Backsplash – Top 10 Tips

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On a daily basis, I have clients come into the showroom asking me if they should use tile for the backsplash. While it’s not for everyone, tile backsplash can add tons of character to any kitchen. With thousands of styles and colors the design options are endless.

Top 10 Tips to a Beautiful Tile Backsplash:

  1. Add Some Character – A little bit of glass or accent tile can really add some style and character.
  2. Under-Counter Lighting – Lighting really accentuates the beauty of the tile, highlighting the texture and beauty of the tile and grout.
  3. Silicone – Talk with your installer prior to starting the job. The tile should not be grouted to the countertop surface. Leave a space equal to the grout line and apply a color matched silicone between the two. The silicone remains flexible and will allow for expansion and contraction of walls, countertops, etc. and can eliminate the grout joint cracking thus eliminating the need to re-grout.
  4. Flat and Level – Install countertop flat and level. It is particularly important to have a countertop flat. This will ensure the tile stays nice and level with straight grout lines.
  5. Proportional Grout – While some tile such as terracotta need a thick grout line, most tiles are best when inconspicuous. Typically, the smaller the tile, the tighter the grout line. When shopping for tile, look at the different sample boards to get a feel for the size you might like.
  6. Cove Splash – If you plan to use a product like Corian, Staron or HI-MACS, a tile backsplash can be a beautiful complement to the material. With ‘Corian’ clients, I suggest a small, coved backsplash (anywhere from 1-4’’ in height). The cove splash provides a nice seamless transition that is easy to clean.
  7. Neutral Tones – When selecting a tile for granite, select a light or neutral color to offset the darker color granite.
  8. Pizazz – Don’t be afraid to add some pizazz. This is your opportunity to really add the style you want at a low cost. When you are tired of the design the cost to replace it will be less than replacing the countertop.
  9. Low-Cost Countertop – Tile can really dress up a countertop. Selecting a lower cost product like Corian, the addition of tile can transform a basic countertop into a masterpiece.
  10. DIY Project – If you feel comfortable with basic carpentry tools, tile backsplashes can be the perfect project. All tools and supplies can be purchased from your local home center. Tile saw rental may be a great option if using glass or ceramic tiles.

So, what’s the verdict? Tile backsplash is definitely a great option for your kitchen remodel. If you want to add some character and really make your kitchen stand out, then this may be the perfect choice for you. Give us a call today to find out more about our selection of tile and how we can help you choose the perfect style for your home.

Tile Removal

Tile Countertop Replacement

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Many of our customers come to our showroom wanting to replace their existing tile countertops. They are simply tired of cleaning the grout. Though removing the tile countertops is necessary, replacing the cabinets is not an option.

“Is this possible”, they ask?

Of course, it is possible! We do replacement countertops all the time.

Because maintenance is the number one reason for replacement, we begin by introducing our customers to either solid surface or quartz surfacing material. Both products offer easy maintenance and virtually endless design possibilities.

Removing a tile countertop can be a daunting task. Following these basic steps can make the process as pain free as possible.

THE MESS

Removing tile is a messy job. But there are certainly steps that can be taken, including covering the floors with tarps, using plastic to mask off the area of work, dust collection on tools, etc. that helps to keep the mess to a minimum.

Zip Walls are also a fantastic way to contain any stray dust. Zip Walls are temporary, plastic walls that go from floor to ceiling, limiting the migration of dust to adjacent rooms. Be sure to ask your fabricator how they protect the area that they will be working in.

THE DAMAGE

Yes, absolutely there will be damage to walls and cabinets when tile is removed. Typically, tile is set in a mortar base and most tile installers use the large 2’’ drop edge pieces where there are finished edges on countertops.

When that tile and mortar is removed you will typically find that there will be some damage, or at least fading of the stain on the front of the cabinets. This can certainly be remedied by asking your countertop fabricator to extend your edge height from the typical 1 ½’’ to a 2 – 2 ½’’ height to cover the damage. Keep in mind, there is additional cost involved in taller edges, but that cost would certainly be much less expensive than refinishing or re-facing existing cabinets.

If you have tile extending up the wall for backsplash, the removal of that tile will most certainly damage the drywall or plaster behind it. Again, there is no reason to panic. A quality countertop fabricator should be able to create a backsplash with the same material you have chosen for your countertop to cover up any damage to the wall. In fact, you can even ask your installer to go up a ¼’’ – ½’’ or so past what is the existing height of your current backsplash to cover up any old paint or grout lines.

CONCLUSION

When your tile countertops are past the point of repair, don’t let the tile removal process overwhelm you. With the right tools and equipment, removal of the existing tile countertop will be as smooth as selecting the new counter.

Water Absorption Test

Is Granite Porous

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Lemon Test – The lemon test is to determine the ability of your granite to resist etching. Follow the steps below:

  • Place a wedge of lemon or lime, cut side down, on the sample overnight.
  • Wipe the sample in the morning and hold it at an angle to the light.
  • Check for a rough spot where the lemon was placed.
  • Etching will appear dull and rough.

Etches normally occur where calcium or calcite is present in the make-up of the stone. If your sample reacts to the lemon wedge, we DO NOT recommend this for your kitchen.

Water Absorption Test – Test the suitability of your granite to resist water absorption. The tighter the grain the less absorption.

Follow these steps:

  • Place a few small drops of water on the sample.
  • Let stand for about 15 minutes.
  • Wipe excess water.

If the granite sample absorbed the water as soon as you put it on, DO NOT use this granite. A quality sealer would help prevent some absorption but would require constant maintenance.

If there is still a bit of water left on the surface, it will be suitable for your kitchen. We recommend a sealer for all granite.

Let’s Get Started

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Olive Mill - Beautiful Countertops Serving Orange County for over 30 Years.

4247 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, CA 92807

valerie.olivemill@gmail.com
(714) 528-3789