When it comes to remodeling your Western Washington state kitchen or bathroom, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right countertop material. In the Pacific Northwest region, quartz, natural stone, and ultracompact surfaces are all popular options. Each of these materials has its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Let’s do a quick run-thru on quartz, natural stone, and finally, ultracompact surfaces and the basic similarities and differences between them.
Quartz
Quartz is a man-made material that is composed of crushed quartz, resin, and pigments. It is extremely durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. Quartz is also non-porous, which means it won’t absorb liquids and bacteria, making it a great option for kitchen countertops. Additionally, quartz is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, so it’s easy to find a style that suits your taste. Some local slab suppliers to consider include MSI, Stratus Surfaces, Silestone, and Cambria.
Natural Stone
Granite is a natural stone that is quarried and cut into slabs. It is also extremely durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. Granite is unique in that each slab is one-of-a-kind, with its own natural pattern and coloration. Granite countertops can add a touch of luxury and elegance to any kitchen or bathroom, but it does require regular sealing to maintain its natural beauty.
Soapstone is a natural stone with a timeless beauty, offering unique patterns and excellent durability. Its heat resistance and resistance to stains and chemicals make it a low-maintenance option. While it may develop minor scratches over time, these can add character, and the stone can be easily sanded to restore its smooth surface.
Lastly, marble countertops exude timeless elegance and sophistication. While it is softer and more susceptible to staining and scratches, proper care and maintenance can help preserve its beauty.
Local natural stone slab vendors to browse include Architectural Surfaces, Crocodile Rocks, Meta Marble, and Cosmos.
Ultracompact Surfaces
Ultracompact surfaces (aka “large format porcelain”) are a new generation of materials that is extremely durable, resistant to scratches and heat. It is also non-porous, making it hygienic and easy to clean. Ultracompact surfaces are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, so it’s easy to find a style that suits your taste.
When choosing the right countertop material for your kitchen or bathroom remodel, it’s important to consider your lifestyle, budget, and personal style. Quartz is a great option if you’re looking for durability and a wide variety of colors and patterns. Natural stone is a great option if you’re looking for a unique and luxurious look. Ultracompact surfaces are a great option if you want to combine durability and aesthetics with low maintenance. Good vendors in this space include Florim, Lapitec, Laminam, and Neolith.
Choosing the best countertop materials for Western Washington kitchens and bathrooms can be daunting but hopefully this blog post has given you some general ideas. To help guide your decision in detail, we have created a Countertop Buying Guide that provides deep dives about each of these materials and compares the benefits and drawbacks of each. Check it out on our website and feel free to reach out to us with any questions.