One of best ways to make a statement in a kitchen is through the countertops. Even with a perfect layout, high-end appliances, and impeccable cabinets, the kitchen can immediately lose visual appeal and appear substandard with a cheap countertop. Whether you are remodeling an existing kitchen or designing one for a new build, two of the most beautiful and timeless countertops in Bainbridge Island, WA are granite and quartz.
Granite is a popular choice for countertops. Granite is a natural stone that has an enduring attraction and adds value to any kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. It is heavy and will require professional installation, but is also very durable. Granite is heat and scratch resistant. Placing hot pans or cutting directly on the stone will not damage it. Heavy blows can chip or crack granite, but granite can also be repaired with epoxy resin. Granite is porous and will need to be sealed to protect it from stains. A properly treated granite countertops in Bainbridge Island, WA can easily be cleaned with mild soap and water and will not harbor bacteria. Granite is one of the most durable counter materials and will last for the life of the home.
Quartz is another durable counter option. Quartz is a manufactured product and has a large variety of colors available. Quartz is made by mixing natural quartz with coloring and a resin binder, resulting in a consistent color throughout each piece. Quartz is nonporous and very stain resistant. It never requires sealing. Like granite, quartz will not harbor bacteria and is easily cleaned with mild soap and water. Quartz is not as heat resistant as granite. Consequently, hot pans should not be placed on a quartz counter. Quartz is scratch resistant and is manufactured for maximum hardness, making it stronger than granite.
Both granite and quartz countertops will last the life of a kitchen. They are durable and beautiful. If a natural look is wanted, and the owner will not mind resealing the surface, granite it probably the best choice. If a uniform color and pattern are the top priorities, quartz is the way to go.