Etching happens when acid comes in contact with a marble, limestone or unsealed granite surface. This causes a chemical reaction, which damages the polish and roughens the surface. Green marbles, such as the ‘jades” from China are resistant to etching, and granite is impervious to most common household acids.
High impact blows can harm granite, especially to the corners and edges. Its crystalline structure makes it somewhat vulnerable to chipping from the blunt force of very hard objects. Products such a oil, coffee, juice, and wine can cause stains or discoloration on unsealed granite. Heat from pots and pans or burning liquids will not affect granite under normal circumstances.
In the event that your granite does become damaged, Premier Countertops offers a repair service. We also offer a 15 year granite sealer to preemptively protects your surface for years to come.
Granite’s crystalline structure always has tiny pits and small spaces between the various mineral crystals. Such pits are not readily apparent on large pieces because the overall appearance is polished and mirror like. Additionally, some granite slabs have natural fissures and cracks that are not necessarily structural defects. These fissures occur naturally and are the result of the immense heat and pressure which originally formed the granite.
Solid Surface comes with a standard “matte” finish. “Satin” and “polished” finishes are available for an additional charge.
Quartz and granite come with a standard “polished” finish. “Honed” and “leather” finishes are available with some brands and colors for an additional charge.
Although we never recommend placing hot pots or pans directly on your countertop surface, Granite and Dekton are able to withstand those high temperatures without burning, scorching or cracking. You’ll never have to worry about your Crock Pots degrading the quality of your surface. Quartz and solid surface are also heat resistant, but are not heat proof.
Although all products can withstand high heat, we recommend using a hot pad or trivet under pots and pans.
Solid surface is comprised of acrylic material with aluminum trihydrate. This creates a very durable, non-porous surface.
Quartz consists of approximately 80% natural quartz crystals, suspended in a polymer compressed under extreme pressure. The result is a non-porous surface that is extremely scratch resistant.
Granite is a 100% natural product mined straight from the earth. It is mined in large blocks, cut into slabs, polished, and delivered to our facility for manufacture into a countertop.
Dekton is a surface material made of ultra-compacted glass, porcelain, and quartz. This ultra-compaction contributes to the material’s low porosity, making it low-maintenance and a life-long product.
A standard counter typically costs substantially less in solid surface material. Quartz, Dekton and granite have about the same price range and are generally more expensive than a solid surface counter.
Solid surface, quartz, granite and Dekton are all mid to high-end countertop materials. Typically, individuals interested in a specific look that is only available with a specific material will not necessarily be happy with a compromise. Each material has its advantages. However, there is no such thing as a perfect counter material. View each product page and choose the material that is right for your lifestyle.