Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 167
Use quartz, not granite
3/13/2018 at 11:39 AM
The term ‘granite’ is often incorrectly used to describe all stone-type countertops. There is a big difference. Granite is a type of rock that, for countertop use, is sawn into a slice suitable for a countertop. It requires regular maintenance and sealing compounds throughout its use. Because it is natural stone, the color you get may not be exactly the same as the sample you picked from. They have also been known to inexplicably crack along the natural grain of the rock, sometimes a few years after installing. They do look like natural rock...because they are. Quartz countertops are made of...quartz. It is mined and processed via grinding it into ...pretty much dust, then ‘glued’ back together and polished to a smooth shine. This way the color can be controlled so it will be consistent with the sample you picked from and the glues they use eliminate the need for sealants or maintenance after installing. All kitchen supply/manufacture shops and lumber yards that sell cupboards will generally have both option available. We chose quartz and LOVE it. Hint: if it is for a vanity or back entrance countertop, be careful not to choose too ‘busy’ a pattern, you will have a harder time seeing small items...pins, nails etc. on it. Good luck!