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Customers find it difficult to shop for kitchen countertops that appeal to the eye, have a high resale value, serve them well, and are heat resistant. The most common cause is that they are torn between two options: solid surface vs quartz countertops.
Usually, these countertops appear to be practically identical to each other. However, upon closer examination, you will see several distinct variations between solid counters and quartz surfaces.
Therefore, before deciding, you should be aware of the differences between solid surface and quartz surface countertops. Keep reading; this post will assist you in doing so.
How Are They Prepared?
The methods used to create solid and quartz surfaces and their compositions significantly vary. In addition, even though they are both artificial materials, their processing also differs greatly.
Natural quartz stone makes up 93 percent of quartz and is one of the most durable stones used in the home. On the other hand, the final countertops are hard and heat resistant when they have been set.
The solid surface material is made up of polymer-based plastics. The plastics have melted and solidified past their melting points. As a result, the finished countertops have a softer texture than quartz. In addition to this, they are usually a little thinner.
Solid Surface vs Quartz – What Are the Differences in their Looks and Appearance?
At first glance, both solid surface and quartz countertops appear to be very similar. They, however, appear to be different depending on their hue. Quartz usually has a gleaming or polished appearance.
On the other hand, solid countertops are more low-key in terms of polishing. Though you will come across highly posted solid surfaces and matte quartz, the thickness of quartz and solid surface countertops also varies.
Solid surface countertops usually have a thickness of two to three centimeters. Some of them are also thinner, with slightly thicker margins. Usually, they do not possess different seams, as their material is melted by heating and molding methods.
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How Do They Differ in Terms of Performance?
Solid and quartz countertops demand far less upkeep than natural stone surfaces. This is because you do not necessarily need to purchase special cleaning materials for them.
Solid countertops, on the other hand, are more susceptible to scratches and stains. So, there will be no differences in their performance in the future.
However, it’s also worth noting that solid surface countertops are more susceptible to heat. If you place hot objects on them, the counter will melt, and the seam will open up.
Iron and other red-hot metals can cause more substantial damage and potentially destroy your sink. As a result, when it comes to solid surface countertops, you must exercise greater caution when it comes to heat. Aside from that, solid surface counters are simple to clean and maintain.
Solid Surface vs Quartz – Which One is More Durable?
Compared to a solid surface, quartz is more durable than kitchen countertops as they are scratch-resistant, heat resistant up to 400 degrees. In terms of visuals, quartz looks glossy (although some matte options) with a consistent color pattern.
Solid surface countertops are slightly cheaper than quartz countertops on average, but solid surface countertops will never last as long as quartz. Quartz countertops almost last up to 50+ years. So, quartz countertops are a more durable and cost-effective alternative than solid surfaces.
Can We Install them by Ourselves?
When it comes to quartz vs solid surface countertops, DIY options are really difficult to come by. This is because fabricators, installers, and retailers cycle the raw materials in a network of fabricators, installers, and merchants. As a result, they will be difficult to access by the general population.
When it comes to solid countertops, you can use standard routers and power saws to cut the material. Then, using seaming kits, you may quickly connect these parts simultaneously. In that situation, if you can get your hands on raw material somehow, a DIY technique won’t be too difficult.
Quartz countertop installation necessitates the use of specialist gear that the average individual lacks. As a result, installing them would be more challenging even if the basic materials could be obtained.
Alternatively, you might go for scattered parts like the tops of ready-made one-piece vanity units. These are much easier to obtain and may be installed without difficulty utilizing a DIY method.
Solid Surface vs Quartz Cost
Prices of solid surface vs quartz countertops are generally the same. However, the prices differ depending on the style and color of the material selected. The prices of both the countertops are very difficult to source materials solely. Most suppliers will already sell to licensed fabricators and contractors.
Quartz vs Solid Surface – How to Choose the Right Countertops
As previously said, both solid and quartz countertops have advantages and disadvantages. If you choose solid surface counters, you will receive a lighter countertop with no seams. Quartz countertops, on the other hand, are significantly more durable and closely resemble real stones.
In comparison to natural stone, both are most likely easier to keep. You won’t need to use special cleaners on them. Furthermore, their market prices are nearly identical. Your kitchen countertops will be made of high-quality material.
Conclusion
If you desire a stone-like appeal and feel in quartz/engineered counters, you can benefit from solid surface counters. On the other hand, solid surface countertops are the way to go if you want a super-contemporary look.
Solid surfaces can even be thermoformed or worked by hand into curvy, smooth shapes, something you cannot do with quartz counter stuff.
Solid surface countertops scale about 4.4 pounds per square foot of 12 mm element; quartz weighs about 6.2 pounds for the equivalent volume and thickness.
Thus, quartz is about 33 percent heavier than solid countertops, resulting in a slightly more solid feeling when installed. To make the right choice, talk with custom countertops professionals. You may also explore the comprehensive guide of quartz surface countertops by Caesarstone.
