Stone Types

• It is one of the hardest and most durable surfaces available.
• Can be damaged by direct a/o extreme heat exposure.
• Very stain resistant. Sealing every 3-8 years, depending on porosity and sealer used.
• pH neutral cleaner, non-ammonia glass cleaner, special granite cleaner.
• Installed interior, exterior, commercial, and residential.

2. Quartz (Engineered): Considered engineered stone. Produced from quartz crystals, resin, and pigments.

• Colors are consistent slab to slab.
• There is a naturally occurring quartz…not to be confused with this stone type.
• Can be damaged by heat. Not recommended for outside applications.
• Highly resistant to staining, and no sealing required, unless purchasing the newer suede or matte finish. .
• pH neutral cleaner, non-ammonia glass cleaner, special quartz cleaner.
• Installed interior, commercial, and residential. Not outside or indoor fireplace surrounds.
• Can be more costly than granite.

• Can stain and scratch. Not recommended for kitchens or other high-traffic areas.
• Can be more costly than granite.
• Can be damaged by direct heat exposure.
• Must be sealed yearly.
• pH neutral cleaner, non-ammonia glass cleaner, or special marble cleaner.

• Much costlier than granite, marble, and quartz.
• Is one of the hardest surfaces available, but can have water absorption issues. Ask MTTS for additional semi-permanent sealing options
• Can be damaged by extreme heat.
• Sealing schedule same as granite.
• pH neutral cleaner, non-ammonia glass cleaners, or special natural stone cleaner.

Advantages:

• Gives the look of marble without the upkeep and care.
• Virtually scratch resistant. The polished versions are somewhat more susceptible. Ceramic knives have been known to scratch.
• Hot pots will not scorch or damage the surface, although trivets are still advised to be used for hot cookware.
• Porcelain is also resistant to ultraviolet light, which means it will not fade from sunlight, so it’s a great choice for outdoor countertops.
• Acidic foods, drinks, and or chemicals will not dull or etch the surface as it does marble.
• Impervious to water, so wiping away spills immediately is not necessary as in marble.
• No sealing is required.

Disadvantages:

• Even though they are durable, they can chip and crack, and repair is many times impossible.
• Porcelain slabs tend to be very thin, which necessitates visual tricks such as mitered edges to make them appear more substantial. This usually increases fabrication costs.
• Many patterns are only surface deep, and they do not extend through the full body of the slabs. Certain edges will remove the pattern.
• Limited edge options. Edges are limited to square or mitered edges
• Fabrication is more difficult, so the cost will be higher.
• Polished surfaces (vs. matte) can scratch easier.
• Due to the thinness, counters must have a sub-board attached before installation. This added framework is provided by your contractor.

As always, if you have any questions for us, feel free to reach out!