Transformation Begins at The Surface
Countertop Options Galore
If you can visualize it, we can create it! From eye-catching kitchens to picture-perfect powder rooms, Cutting Edge Countertops is qualified to suit your design style and needs. Whether your preference is timelessly traditional or stunningly sleek, we can help you create the perfect environment to truly transform your home or commercial space.
But how do you choose a type of stone? The selection process can be hard with our wide range of surfaces. Take a look at the characteristics of each stone below to help you decide which surface will be best for your lifestyle or business. Of course, if you still have questions, we’re here to help answer them so give us a call or come visit us!
Natural Stone (Granite, Marble, Other)
One of a Kind
Due to its origin from the earth, natural stone radiates very unique design that is one-of-a-kind. Its veining and speckled details cannot be truly matched by any other manufactured surface (although there are some that come pretty close!). Each stone is different from the rest, making every piece exclusive.
Durability (Moderate-High)
Overall, natural stone is considered to be a very durable stone, but it mostly depends on the type of surface. Granite is more durable than marble because it is composed of a harder substance. Therefore, granite is less susceptible to chips and scratches. It’s also great for outdoor use too.
Stain Resistant (Low-Moderate)
Because natural stone is a porous material, if it is not sealed upon installation, it will absorb liquids and is likely to stain. However, if sealed properly, it is moderately stain resistant. If you have a darker surface, stains are typically not seen. Softer and lighter material, such as marble, has a higher chance of absorbing and showing stains.
Heat Resistant (High)
With its strong durability, comes a high tolerance to heat. All natural stones are great for kitchen countertops because you do not have to worry about placing a boiling hot pan atop the counter. They are simply stress free!
Scratch Resistant (Moderate-High)
Natural stone is just as scratch resistant as it is durable. It is a strong material and you will rarely find a scratch on the surface. You’re more than welcome to use sharp knives on granite, but be aware that this will dull your knives and could more quickly wear down the sealer.
Low Maintenance
Overall, natural stone is very low maintenance. It is easy to clean and it does not require constant upkeep.
Quartz
Consistent Color
Because quartz is a manufactured product, quartz can be found in a wide range of colors including natural hues as well as vibrant bold options. Each slab design resembles the next, so you can be sure that your color choice will be the same as a sample and that if your project is larger and requires more than one slab, the material will match perfectly.
Durability (High)
Quartz is one of the strongest materials on the market. You will almost never have to worry, because it is a product made from one of the hardest minerals on earth, and can therefore withstand day-to-day activity.
Stain Resistant (High)
Because it is manufactured, quartz is a non-porous material, which means that no liquids can seep through. Thus, quartz does not absorb any unwanted bacteria and does not stain.
Heat Resistant (High)
Another benefit to having quartz countertops is its high ability to resist heat, although we do always suggest using hot pads or trivets to keep your countertop always looking as good as new.
Scratch Resistant (High)
Quartz will not scratch, as it is extremely durable. Don’t worry about needing a cutting board – you can use sharp knives right on the surface! But be aware, cutting atop this material will dull your knives (so we do still suggest using them!).
Low Maintenance
Because quartz is stain resistant, scratch resistant, and extremely durable, the maintenance is very low. It is easy to clean up and you can use any cleaning product without worrying about destroying the surface.
Solid Surface
Consistent Color
Because it is a manufactured product, solid surface countertops come in all different colors, each the same in design.
Durability (Moderate)
Compared to other surfaces in the market, solid surfaces are moderately durable. They can withstand much of the day to day activities, but be careful about the heavy objects that are placed atop!
Stain Resistant (High)
Solid surface countertops are stain resistant because of its non-porous nature. No need to worry about wine spills or lemon juice – you can simply wipe away the mess and you surface will still appear squeaky clean!
Heat Resistant (Moderate)
Like other material, solid surfaces can withstand heat to a certain degree. However, this isn’t the best product to place extreme heat on. You can easily damage the beauty of your countertop if placing a hot pot and pan, or in opposition, can crack the surface if placing extremely cold objects atop.
Scratch Resistant (Moderate)
Solid surface countertops are softer than quartz, so please take out your cutting board when meal prepping. If you take a sharp knife to the surface, it is possible to cut a deep scratch into the surface, leaving your countertop noticeably rough. Thankfully, you can call a professional to remove the scratches to return your surface back to normal.
Low Maintenance
Overall, solid surfaces are a low maintenance product. It is easy to clean up and does not reveal too many damages if taken care of properly.
Compact Surface
Consistent Color
Compact surfaces contain a consistent color through the various collections. A wide range of choices are available, each color being the same within its specific category, much like quartz.
Durability (High)
Similar to quartz countertops, compact surfaces are extremely durable – one of the tops on the list, actually! You don’t have to worry about this material, as it is manufactured to withstand extreme interactions including heavy objects and harsh environments.
Stain Resistant (High)
With its manufactured state of being, comes the ability to resistant stains. Compact surfaces will not absorb any unwanted liquids and bacteria, making it a hassle-free countertop!
Heat Resistant (High)
Compact surfaces can withstand contact with very high AND low temperatures without being damaged. This makes it an ideal surface for both indoor and outdoor kitchens!
Scratch Resistant (High)
Because it is composed of strong and durable materials, compact surfaces are extremely resistant to scratches. You will not need to worry about scratching so cook, prepare, and make a mess as you please!
Low Maintenance
Compact surfaces are a low maintenance material. It will not absorb stains, nor chip and scratch, making it an easy clean up and hassle-free countertop.
Laminate
Consistent Color
Laminate countertops are made up of layers of plastic that are bonded to particleboard or kraft paper to create a solid surface. Because it is manufactured to fit a specific look, these countertops come in a wide variety of colors, textures and patterns.
Durability (Low)
Although laminate is a very good choice when choosing a countertop within a tight budget, its durability is very low, making it a difficult surface to keep untouched.
Stain Resistant (Moderate)
Laminate countertops cannot be considered stain proof, but they are definitely stain-resistant. If taken care of properly and not exposed to extreme acidic liquids, laminate surfaces will not reveal unwanted discoloring.
Heat Resistant (Low)
Similar to its stain-resistant capabilities, laminate countertops are not heat resistant but can, in fact, endure a low amount of heat. If limited, the surface will be able to withstand warm temperatures, but make sure that nothing too hot comes in contact or your countertop will be damaged!
Scratch Resistant (Moderate)
Laminate countertops are eligible to get scratched if treated unproperly, but luckily, professionals can easily remove scratches (if the size of the scratch is not extreme).
Low Maintenance
Although laminate surfaces are more susceptible to damages than other countertops, its maintenance remains low and easy to handle.
Recycled Surface
One of a Kind
Recycled surfaces are all similar to the way quartz is made, but the contents include more environmentally friendly materials making each countertop slightly different in design, pattern, and color. Therefore, each surface is unique in its own way.
Durability (Moderate)
Recycled glass counters are resistant to heat and scratches, making it a durable countertop, but it is not as durable as other options on the market.
Stain Resistant (High)
Because it is manufactured to be a non-porous material, recycled surfaces are known to keep bacteria at bay. Any strong liquids can easily be wiped away and will not absorb into the surface.
Heat Resistant (High)
Each countertop is highly resistant to heat and can sustain extreme temperatures. Recycled surfaces are made up of natural components that are all eligible to withstand strong heat.
Scratch Resistant (High)
Made from strong materials, recycled surface countertops are highly resistant to scratches. Therefore, you never need to worry about damaging your beautifully, unique counter.
Low Maintenance
Because of its non-porous state, recycled surfaces are very easy to clean up and maintain, making it a great (and eco-friendly) kitchen countertop with little to no maintenance.
For further assistance in selecting a countertop, feel free to contact us at 888.515.TOPS or visit our blog for more information.
