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Silestone (quartz) is today's hottest countertop product. Make sure to check it out.
Here's what the critics are saying…
"Quartz (Silestone) was our favorite in our tests. This material is attractive, durable and a cinch to care for. It took the heat and still looked brand-new."
- Good Housekeeping
"Quartz countertops (Silestone) are the best choice for most kitchens. More choices than granite but doesn't need to be sealed like granite."
- Leading Consumer Magazine |
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Choosing Your Options
While there are many brands, styles and materials from which to choose, at Kitchen Expo we can help you make an educated choice.
Whether you have your heart set on granite, or have your eye on quartz surfacing, it's important to do your homework
before finally choosing your countertop. Be sure to know the pros and cons as well as the individual characteristics of each countertop you're considering.
Countertop Overview
Generally, natural stone, quartz and solid surface are the most durable. Spills are handled best by solid surface, quartz and stainless steel, and cutting is done best on stone or wood. If you're looking for a wide variety of colors, look to laminate and solid surface. Stainless steel and solid surfacing are good for fashioning decorative shapes and integral sinks. Concrete, when sealed, provides
an excellent surface that can be fashioned in a limitless variety of shapes and colors.
A few guidelines to help you choose
| Appearance |
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| If you prefer: |
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The best choice: |
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| Manmade materials |
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Natural
quartz, laminate, solid surface, stainless steel, concrete |
| Natural materials |
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Natural
quartz, stone, tile, wood |
| Consistent color |
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Natural
quartz, plastic laminate, solid surface, stainless steel |
| Veins or speckles |
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Natural
quartz, stone |
| Integral sinks |
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Natural
quartz, solid surface, stainless steel, concrete |
| Textured feel |
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Natural
quartz, tile, concrete |
| Decorative edging |
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All |
| Decorative backsplash |
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All |
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| Needs |
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| If you need to: |
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The best choice: |
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| Slice, dice, chop |
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Natural
quartz, stone, wood |
| Roll dough |
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Natural
quartz, stone, stainless steel |
| Set down hot items |
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Natural
quartz, stone, tile, stainless steel, concrete |
| Spill without staining
- without sealants |
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Natural
quartz, solid surface, quartz, stainless steel |
| Perform little or
no Maintenance |
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Natural
quartz, solid surface, laminate, stainless steel |
Other considerations when making your decision
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