When selecting the ideal countertop for your kitchen or bathroom, it is important to consider both the material characteristics and various environmental factors, including temperature, moisture, and the types of items that will be placed on the surface.
Quartz, an engineered stone, is known for its high durability and low maintenance requirements. It also offers a wide range of colors and patterns, making it a versatile choice for different design aesthetics. In contrast, granite is a natural stone that features unique natural patterns and high hardness. It is particularly valued for its high heat resistance, making it suitable for areas that may be exposed to hot cookware.
By evaluating these characteristics, you can make a more informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops refer to surfaces made from quartz. Quartz is a type of engineered stone, created by combining over 90% natural quartz crystals with resins and pigments through a process called polymerization under vacuum conditions. This material undergoes multiple processes, including high temperature, high pressure, grinding, and polishing, resulting in a durable and cost-effective countertop material.
Pros
Durability
Quartz countertops are highly resistant to scratches, stains, and chipping. They are non-porous, which prevents bacteria and moisture from penetrating the surface. And quartz crystals are among the hardest natural minerals, with a surface hardness that can reach up to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them significantly resistant to scratches from kitchen tools like knives and spatulas.
Low maintenance
Quartz is manufactured as a dense, non-porous composite material, providing excellent resistance to acids and bases commonly found in kitchens. The glossy surface of quartz is achieved through over 30 complex polishing processes, ensuring it is difficult to scratch with tools like knives and spatulas, resistant to liquid penetration, and less likely to yellow or discolor over time.
The maintenance of quartz countertops does not require sealing or special cleaning agents; any spills can be easily wiped away with soap and water. For stubborn residues, a razor blade can be used to scrape them off.
Appearance
Quartz countertops are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including options that mimic natural stone. The entire surface features a consistent pattern and color, making it ideal for a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Cons
Limited heat resistance
Quartz countertops offer some heat resistance, but they are not designed to withstand long-term high temperatures. Although quartz (SiO2) has a melting point of approximately 1700°C, the ignition points of the resins and pigments used in the countertops range from 150°C to 200°C. While short-term contact with heat sources, like hot pots, is generally safe, it is advisable to use heat pads under cookware, as their temperatures can exceed 250°C. Excessive exposure to localized heat can lead to deformation, surface degradation, and may result in cracking, discoloration, or resin carbonization.
When purchasing quartz kitchen countertops, it is important to check whether the product is certified by NSF/ANSI 51, which sets minimum public health and sanitation requirements for materials used in the construction of commercial food equipment. The specific conditions for certification typically include:
Food safety: Non-toxic and free from harmful radiation.
Cleanliness and hygiene: Smooth, non-porous surfaces that are easy to clean and maintain.
Thermal stability: Resistance to heat.
The term "thermal stability" refers to the material's ability to not release harmful substances, deform, or degrade at specific temperatures while remaining suitable for food contact. This temperature is determined through testing that simulates actual usage conditions, ensuring credibility and scientific validity. Generally, the heat resistance of engineered quartz ranges from 120°C to 160°C, with variations among different products. While some NSF certifications indicate a maximum usage temperature of 450°F (approximately 232°C), it is important to note that "thermal stability" does not guarantee that the surface treatment or gloss will remain in its original factory condition when subjected to high temperatures. As mentioned, temperature concerns primarily arise from the resins and pigments with low ignition points. If a product has a higher resin content, it may discolor or degrade when exposed to high temperatures, leading to a loss of surface gloss.
Usage Precautions
Avoid direct contact with high-temperature cookware
Do not place hot cookware directly on the countertop for extended periods. Items taken directly from the stove, oven, or microwave, such as hot pots, kettles, or other high-temperature utensils, can damage the surface.Prevent scratches from sharp objects
Always use a cutting board when preparing food, regardless of the countertop material. This practice not only prevents knife marks but also protects the knives and ensures better hygiene. If knife marks do occur, you can lightly sand the surface with sandpaper (grit 180-600) based on the depth of the scratches, and then finish with a non-abrasive cleaning pad.Keep the surface dry
Maintain the cleanliness of the countertop and avoid prolonged soaking or pooling of water. Bleach and mineral deposits in the water might affect the countertop's appearance.Avoid contact with corrosive chemicals
Keep corrosive chemicals away from the countertop. If accidental contact occurs, immediately rinse the surface with plenty of soapy water or consult a professional for advice.
Granite Countertops
Granite is a natural stone known for its durability and unique patterns. It is formed from igneous rock and is a hard, crystalline stone primarily composed of feldspar and quartz, often interspersed with one or more black minerals. Its structure is characterized by a uniform arrangement of these components.
Pros
Durability, bacterial resistance, and heat resistance
As a traditional natural stone for kitchen countertops, granite has a high density and hardness, making its surface highly resistant to wear. This significantly reduces the likelihood of harboring dirt and bacteria. Studies have shown that among all natural stones suitable for kitchen countertops, granite exhibits excellent antibacterial properties.
Granite surfaces dissipate heat effectively without bubbling or cracking and can withstand the high temperatures of frying pans without leaving marks. Nevertheless, it is still advisable to use a mat underneath hot cookware.
Natural appearance
Granite is available in a wide range of colors. Stones from different regions around the world possess unique qualities, and each type of granite features distinct colors and patterns that are difficult to replicate with engineered stones. Upon closer inspection, you will notice that the color of granite changes with varying light conditions. The color, speckles, and other patterns run throughout the entire stone, whereas engineered stones typically have only a surface layer that may not exhibit the same depth or variation as natural stone.
Cons
Requires regular maintenance
Granite is porous, which means it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining. Typically, resealing should be done every 1 to 3 years.
Seams
Due to the limitations in the length of natural stone slabs, long countertops or those with corners can only be constructed using multiple pieces of stone joined together, rather than as a single slab. The seams where these pieces are joined can also be prone to trapping dirt.
