Kitchen Systems

PROS

Granite is a natural stone, and so every individual slab of granite is unique in its hue, patterning and shading. If you want to admire your kitchen top while cooking, granite flaunts its attractiveness with each slab having its colours and patterns. When properly sealed, it’s one of the most durable options as its heat, scratch, stain and water resistance. According to Marcus from Lian Hin, darker tones are recommended as minimum sealing is needed to prevent water marks and stains.

CONS

The only con with granite is that there are so many options available depending on what colour and patterns that you like, and prices vary for different types of granite. If you choose some of the more exotic slabs, it can be expensive, and many suppliers will charge you for the whole slab even if you just need a small part. Installation can also be expensive. To reduce waste and save money, work with your designer and a supplier to select a slab early and work that slab into your design.

PROS

Quartz is a manufactured product and the manufacturing process allows a much wider range of colours as well as a more uniformed look compared to natural stones such as marble or granite. Furthermore, quartz has the same durability as concrete and granite but does not chip or crack as easily.

Like other hard surface countertop materials, quartz is non-porous, so it resists staining much better than granite, marble and concrete. For cleanliness, a non-porous surface means that it will not harbour bacteria or viruses. No sealing is required. Darker colours are also more matte in their finish.

CONS

The biggest concern for some will be the price. When you get written estimates, expect quartz countertop prices to be much costlier than other countertop materials such as granite and marble. The difference in prices comes from the fact that quartz is a much stronger material compared to granite or marble.

Some homeowners may also prefer the natural look of granite or marble for their home. Finally, quartz is not as resistant to heat as granite, so beware of those hot pots leaving warm patches even when they have long left your kitchen top. Also beware that quartz which has whitish tones will turn yellowish after years of usage.

PROS

With mineral impurities in the stone, marble has many patterns and colours to choose from for your interior design choices. People who like their kitchen surfaces all white will rejoice, as even white (pictured above) can come in a myriad of patterns. The cook in the family will also love the fact that no matter what hot dish is on the countertop, the surface still feels cool to touch.

CONS

You’ll find that marble scratches easily, unlike granite, as it is softer and more porous compared to granite. Acidic foods also can cause etching in the marble. The homeowner that chooses marble must be prepared to use sealant to fill in those gaps.

PROS

Tile countertops deliver top-notch durability at bargain prices. If you are handy with your DIY work around the house, you can even try installing tiles yourself. Tile can withstand both heat and knives, so you will not see a scratch or etches in the surface. Coloured tiles can be put together for a café effect, or you can unleash your creativity by painting designs on the tiles.

CONS

However, the maintenance of tiles can be high as grout tends to form after a few years of constant exposure to heat and water. The best way to keep those tiles clean would be to ensure they are stuck together as tightly as possible.