31 May Natural Stone Countertops vs. Solid Surface Countertops
Solid surface countertops are often compared to natural stone countertops because they are designed to look like granite or marble. These products tend to cost less because they are made from composite materials, not actual stone. Before you opt for the bargain though, it’s important to know the differences between natural stone and solid surface countertops so you can make the best investment for your home. Here is a quick comparison to get you started.
Durability
One of the biggest reasons why people love granite and marble countertops is because they are incredibly durable. These stones can stand up to hot pans, spills, stains, scratches, humidity, and much more. By comparison, solid surface countertops are made from less durable materials, which means they won’t last as long. They may be more affordable initially, but they will have to be replaced sooner than granite countertops. You’ll get more use out of your money by choosing the durable option.
Visual Appeal
Solid surface countertops are man-made composites of different material that are mixed and compressed down to form a sheet. These products are made to appear similar to a natural countertop product, but because of their manufactured make up, they often have a generic look. Granite on the other hand is completely natural and can be found in a variety of patterns, designs and veins that make each stone unique. If you want a piece that is truly unique to your kitchen, you aren’t going to find that with a solid surface countertop.
Installation Cost
This is the one area where solid surface countertops reign supreme. They are cheaper to buy and cheaper to install, but you must keep in mind that you get what you pay for. As we mentioned above, manmade countertops do not last nearly as long as natural stone countertops, so you will end up spending more in the long term. You might as well make a solid investment from the start so you don’t have to worry about it in the future.
Property Value
The kitchen is one of the biggest selling features in a home. In fact, most renovators agree that you can get every penny you put into kitchen remodeling back when you sell the home. If you have two identical homes – one with natural stone counters and one with solid surface counters – the one with natural stone will be worth more money. It will also appeal to a greater number of buyers, which will ultimately lead to a faster sale. The choice is yours, but when you weigh out the pros and cons, natural stone counters win every time.
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