Countertop Comparison: Granite, Quartz, & Corian

Granite vs. Quartz vs. Corian: Which is Right for You?

When choosing the “right” material for your countertop project there is no one perfect material for everyone. The debate surrounding the pros and cons of granite versus quartz countertops is heated and well documented on many public forums. Solid Surface materials, commonly known by the brand name Corian®, are another popular option for kitchen and bathroom countertops.

Every project has parameters to be met and understanding the physical makeup of each material may help in your decision making process. Granite vs. Quartz vs. Corian – which is right for you? Read on to find out!

Granite

• Naturally occurring stone comprised of mostly quartz, mica and feldspar.
• Each slab is unique with hundreds of colors and design options.
• Patterns and colors can change within each new slab from a quarry.
• Durable and excellent for indoor, outdoor, commercial and residential use.
• Porous surface requires occasional sealing with specialty products.

Granite Countertop Pros and Cons

Granite has been a popular surface for millennia. Some of the components of the pyramids in Egypt are granite as are many ancient buildings and roadways. As a work surface, it holds up to lots of abuse. However, dropping a cast iron pan or heavy object on a granite countertop can damage the surface. Granite can be polished to a high sheen, but works equally well with honed or leathered finish for less shine. Granite can stain and often ends up with a patina after years of use. Shopping for a slab is a lot like shopping for art: there is something out there for every taste. If you like natural stone and lots of pattern (called movement), then Granite may be the perfect choice for you.

Quartz

• Engineered/ Man-made comprised of crushed quartz, resins and pigments.
• Each slab is identical but there are dozens of colors and patterns.
• Choosing a color and pattern will be consistent from slab to slab.
• Durable, non-porous, stain and crack resistant.
• Not heat resistant.
• Little to no maintenance and easy to clean

Quartz Countertops Pros and Cons

Quartz is man-made and just when you think you have seen every color and pattern something new is available. Some brand names you might recognize are LG, Silestone, and Han Stone. Quartz now mimics patterns of granite, marble and other natural stones and can be finished with high polish or a honed or leathered look. It is considered low maintenance and resists most extreme wear and abuse. It is not considered “heat resistant “ so trivets are necessary. There are very few cons to choosing quartz and there are lots of reasons why it is so popular. Each brand has something different to offer and the professionals at Keystone GraniteWerks would be happy to help you select the right brand for your project.

Solid Surface

• Man-made material from acrylic resin and crushed stone.
• Considered quiet and contemporary, can mimic subtle natural stone designs.
• Seamless installation and integrated sinks and backsplashes are available.
• Not heat resistant but minor scratches and stains can be buffed out easily.
• Quiet and more forgiving surface than granite or quartz.

Solid Surface Countertops Pros and Cons

Corian, Sage Surfaces, and LG HI-MACS are recognizable brands of this man-made material. This type of countertop surface has been around since the 1950’s and has been used in many types of installations for decades. Positive reasons for choosing this product are a more forgiving surface when you drop dishes or glasses, the ability to buff out a stain or scratch on your own and nearly seamless installation. Because this is made from acrylic, the surface is not heat resistant and trivets are a must.

Your Countertop Contractors at Keystone GraniteWerks can answer more questions, offer advice and share samples to help you decide the best product for your project.

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