Countertop Materials

Granite

Granite, is a generic name for more than 13000 different stones that contains Quartz, it is difficult to describe granite because each color has different contents of quartz therefore its hardness varies. It is a natural product which is mined in slab form from quarries throughout the world. Each slab is unique, as a result each countertop is unique, that's what make granite a top design product for countertops. Granite generically is porous and brittle material. As a result of its porous nature, granite must be sealed prior to installation, and must be resealed periodically throughout its useful life depending on color and material. 

Quartz surface or engineer stone

Stain Resistant

The resigns used to bond the quartz crystals act as a sealant throughout the complete depth of the stone. I.e. Quartz Surface is a sealed top. bottom and in between. this structure results in a virtual non-porous material that never needs sealing. Quartz Surface can be cleaned with almost any household cleaner without fear of damage. Even acetone (fingernail polish remover) will not penetrate nor harm the surface of Quartz Surface. Some brand names of Quartz Surface, LG, Zodiaq, Silestone, Hanstone, Ceasarstone,

Scratches

The hardness of the quartz stone prevents scratches under almost all-normal use. Example: the use of a sharp kitchen knife on the surface of the material will generally lead to removal of metal from the blade, thus dulling the knife.

Scorching

Quartz stone dissipates heat extremely well, the bonding agents have a very high heat retardant value. The combination of these factors do not allow scorching or burning under almost any normal condition.

 Solid surface materials   (corian, avonite, staron, gibraltar)

these plastic based materials are softer and less resilient to heat. they are more porous in nature and can melt att reasonably low temperatures compared to that of stone. This makes solid surface far more susceptible to scratching, scorching and porosity problems.

Laminates         (Formica, Wilsonart...)

These thin sheets of plastic, mounted over plywood, are also highly susceptible to scratching, staining and scorching.