Granite
If you are looking for a heat-resistant, natural, durable and scratch-proof countertop, solid granite would be a perfect choice for your home.
Granite is available in a variety of finishes, including polished, honed, brushed and antique.
- Cleaning Recommendations: use a non-abrasive cloth with a low PH level soap
- Sealing: Most granite slabs require sealing about 1 time per year
- Important to note: Etching/scratching can happen on granite, due to high use or by use of abrasive products
Quartz
Made from one of the world’s most durable materials, quartz is a great choice for families looking for a countertop that won’t mark or scratch and has little chance of staining. This engineered stone is nonporous thanks to its manufacturing process. For a clean and bright design, quartz is a great option, as its coloring is typically solid and consistent throughout the slabs.
- Cleaning Recommendations: use a non-abrasive cloth with a low PH level soap
- Sealing: is not required as quartz is non-porous
- Important to note: Although quartz is durable, stain resistant, scratch resistant and 100% non-porous, the product is not stain, scratch, or etch PROOF.
Acrylic/Polyester Solid Surface
Acrylic and Polyester surfaces are created from a solid resin, which is like a hard, plastic surface laid over a particle board or plywood base. This surface is easy to repair if needed and extremely easy to clean, as it is non-porous and resists any growth of mold, mildew or bacteria.
- Cleaning Recommendations: use a damp microfiber cloth with a household kitchen spray to remove most stains.
- Sealing: not required
- Important to note: Although most acrylic countertops are non-porous it is recommended to wipe up spills as they occur.
Laminate
Laminate countertops offer a great value for anyone wanting the look of natural stone but on a smaller budget. Laminate has evolved in the last decade to now withstand high temperatures and has always been a favorite for those wanting a stain-resistant material.
- Cleaning Recommendations: use clean water and mild detergent; rinse detergent off with a clean, damp cloth and polish the surface dry with a soft cloth.
- Sealing: not required
- Important to note: Don’t place hot dishes or pans from the oven directly on your laminate countertops. Avoid abrasives as they will damage the surface.