1340 Discovery Industrial Court  ~  Mableton, GA 30126
(404) 794-4400 voice /fax  ~  www.thegraniteshop.net
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Granite vs. other Countertop Surfaces

  Granite Engineered Stone Acrylic an/or Polyester Plastics Tile Laminates
Brand Names   Silestone, Ceasarstone, Cambria, Avanza, Zodiaq Corian, Staron, Gibraltar, Avonite, Surell, Hi-Macs Ceramic, Porcelain Wilsonart, Formica, Nevamar, Pinoite, Arbortite
What is it? 100% Natural stone quarried from within the earth Man-made: 85%-95% crushed quartz with a resin binder  Man-made: Acrylic or Polyester Plastics Man-made: Ceramic or Porcelain Man-made: Printed colors/patterns on a fiberglass backing
Heat Resistance Not affected by heat Can be affected by high heat (over 400F) Hot pots can warp, melt, crack, or discolor the surface Not affected by heat Hot pots can warp, melt, or discolor the surface
Cleanliness Independent studies have found granite to be one of the most bacteria-resistant surfaces available Non-porous - very resistant to bacteria Deep scratches can harbor dirt and or moisture Grout is very porous and can be difficult to keep clean Non-porous - easy to clean
Scratch Resistance Highly scratch resistant - small scratches can be professionally repaired Highly scratch resistant Scratches easily - can be sanded Finish can be scratched and is usually not repairable Can be scratched - not easily repaired
Fabrication May require seams - various edge profiles available May require seams - various edge profiles available Seamless - usually set on a wood sub-structure - various edge profiles available Should be set on an approved sub-structure - limited edge profiles Sheet material is applied to a wood sub-structure - limited edge profiles
Appearance Highly polished finish - every piece is naturally unique in color and patterning Polished finish - consistent and uniform color and patterning Matte finish - with consistent and uniform color and patterning Grout joints can vary greatly - tile color and shading can vary Highly visible seams - consistent and uniform color and patterning
Maintenance May require periodic sealing to prevent staining n/a Scratches can be sanded out Grout needs to be re-sealed often  
Price $46/sf and up MORE expensive than granite Price varies based on color - many of which are more expensive than granite More expensive than tile Inexpensive

 

 


Updated on 12/09/2006 .  Copyright 2002-2006 The Granite Shop.  All rights reserved.
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