Avoid countertops that are largely plastic such as
Granite is usually regarded as one of the top kitchen countertop materials as it balances a mid-range cost with amazing performance against heat, scratches, and wear & tear.
1. Quartz. Quartz is the most durable countertop material. A perfect choice for any kitchen or bathroom, quartz countertops contain a mixture of crushed quartz and resin.
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Quartz countertops do have a certain level of heat resistance. However, it's not as heat-resistant as granite countertops. The same thing that makes quartz countertops so strong also makes them weak when you put heat or hot cookware on them.
Hot Coffee and Quartz: The Verdict
Quartz can withstand temperatures up to about 300°F (150°C) without immediate damage. However, the key is to avoid prolonged exposure to heat. Use Trivets and Coasters: To be on the safe side, always use trivets, coasters, or heat pads under hot items.
'Quartz is what I typically would recommend for a client looking for a low maintenance kitchen countertop,' agrees interior designer Esther Chi of Mudan Interior Design. 'Unlike natural stones like marble and granite, quartz is a man-made non-porous material. This means that it is highly resistant to staining.
Quartz countertops can cost between $80 to $140 per square foot installed. Granite countertops can cost between $80 and $175 per square foot installed. The price difference between granite and quartz will vary because both materials are international imports, so tariffs and other transport costs will impact pricing.
Good options include porcelain slabs, quartz, and some natural stone. Avoid countertops that are largely plastic such as cultured marble, solid surface, and those that introduce formaldehyde, like laminate.
Corian is a branded name used in reference to solid surface countertops. These surfaces are a step up from laminate but still lack the durability and aesthetics that would allow them to compete with natural stone such as quartz. This is one of the primary reasons Corian offers poor resale value compared to quartz.
If other homes sold in your area have quartz countertops and sold at or under your home's value, granite doesn't make sense. In this case, quartz adds the most value. Buyers will pay extra for upgrades but not if they can purchase a home similar to yours for a lower price without them.
Can You Put Hot Cooking Utensils On A Quartz Countertop? The quick answer is no, you should aim to not place a hot pan on a quartz kitchen worktop as the heat from the pan will cause the quartz to burn. The resin that is in the quartz material can only withhold 150 degrees in heat before it reaches its maximum.
Today, Corian® is used for kitchen countertops, vanities, and shower surrounds, as well as wall cladding, toilet partitions, signage, elevator cladding and much more! A sheet of Corian® is like canvas for your imagination. After all, you can do nearly anything with it.
How much does a 10 foot quartz countertop cost? Quartz price per sq ft is around $50, so 10 ft quartz should be anywhere between $400 to $600 depending on the grade of quartz you're willing to purchase.
Granite is durable, beautiful and would be uniquely yours. But you can't' beat quartz if you want the classic beauty of natural marble without the headache and heartache of keeping natural marble looking good.
Marble tops the most-expensive list due in large part to its elegant looks. The good: It will instantly lift your kitchen or bathroom to another level. The bad: It requires some regular maintenance to ensure its legacy. Plan on $75-$250 or more per square foot.
For cost-efficient, long-term countertop options, consider granite and other natural stone materials. Sheets of granite are smooth, durable and heat-resistant, making this the perfect material to use in your kitchen.
White marble countertops are a hallmark of Joanna's kitchens, effortlessly bringing luxury and timeless elegance. Paired with dark cabinets, they strike the perfect balance of modern style and cozy warmth, as seen in her Waco home.
Corian Solid Surface
It has a seamless appearance, similar to quartz. One of its main advantages is its durability, as it resists stains, scratches, and moisture. Corian is also non-porous, making it easy to clean.
Quartz worktops are durable enough to withstand the heat generated by most kitchen appliances, cookware, and crockery. But, anything that comes off the stove or out of the oven should be used on a trivet or heat-resistant mat because anything over 150C (302F) can damage the worktop.
While quartz has high heat-resistant properties, it is not completely immune to heat. Temperatures over 300° F can mean bad news for your countertop. Do not place hot pots or pans directly on your countertop, as extreme heat can damage the resin of the countertop's surface, resulting in discoloration.
Quartz countertops can handle the heat generated by a microwave during normal use, but you should avoid placing hot dishes or pans straight from the microwave onto the surface without using a trivet or hot pad.