General Information

Agate Blu
10 Nov
Informational

Is Porcelain Good for Countertops?

Today, granite and quartz countertops are the most popular. However, as people start thinking practically, they are gradually turning to more affordable materials that maintain the same beauty and utility. The material I am talking about is porcelain. You probably already have a few porcelain utensils in your home, but what about countertops? Although it has yet to be the preferred material for most kitchens, its popularity is growing steadily. In this article, we will talk about its pros and cons and find out if a porcelain countertop is something you’d consider. 

Is Porcelain Good for Countertops? 

A mixture of pulverized China stone and kaolin (often called China clay) is heated to a temperature of roughly 1400°C to create porcelain. The kaolin helps the product retain its form, while the high temperature helps the China stone to become an extremely durable substance. In the clay, impurities like silica and feldspars contribute to the strength and color rather than taking away its quality. When porcelain countertops are made, a pigmented glaze is applied to them to increase their decorative appeal. This way, you can make porcelain countertops look similar to natural stone. If you don’t want such a design, you can also have your porcelain unglazed. 

Heat and UV Resistance

Because porcelain countertops are made at such high temperatures, they can withstand heat. Although hot cookware should always be placed on table mats or stands, placing hot pans on the surface won’t burn or cause damage. Porcelain is also an excellent material for outdoor kitchen counters since it is immune to ultraviolet light and won’t fade in the sun.

Stain Resistance

Porcelain comes close to being stain-proof but is only partially so. Since it is non-porous, liquids do not get absorbed. When stains occur, they usually appear on the surface and are simple to remove. Additionally, unlike marble countertops, porcelain has high resistance to the majority of chemicals and won’t etch or develop dull patches from acidic meals and beverages.

Scratch Resistance

Again, due to its hardness, it is scratch resistant. It is incredibly tough to scratch, much like granite and quartz. However, be careful with ceramic knives because they can use occasionally scratch porcelain.

Durability 

Kitchen and bathroom countertops made of porcelain are incredibly strong, resilient, and resistant to impacts unless you drop a heavy object from a substantial height. They are typically untouched by wear and tear, either. However, there is still a chance for chips and cracks, so try to be cautious. 

Design and Colors

As porcelain is a manufactured material, It can be found in almost any color or pattern, and wide varieties resemble marble, granite, or other types of natural stone.

No Sealing Required

For the most part, porcelain doesn’t require sealing since this fire glazing protects it from stains and moisture. However, if your porcelain countertop is unglazed, sealing may be required.

What are the Downsides of Porcelain Countertops? 

As a countertop material for the kitchen or bathroom, porcelain has a lot to offer. It competes favorably with other popular natural stones like quartz and granite countertops. However, you should also be aware of the disadvantages that come with porcelain.

Superficial Beauty

Porcelain does not have its designs pre-built, unlike natural stone and other tabletop materials. This means that designs and patterns need to be printed on top of it later. This is more of a minor inconvenience rather than a serious issue, but you should know that the edges of your porcelain countertop might not have any imprinted design. The same issue will occur if your countertop gets chipped. 

Not Scratch-proof Against Ceramic Knives

As we’ve already established that porcelain is hard and scratch-proof against almost all household materials. But ceramic knives are the one thing that it is not immune against. While the obvious suggestion is to not use ceramic knives but if that doesn’t work for you, make sure you always use a chopping board. 

Limited Finishes

Although there are fewer finish options than granite, marble, or other natural stones, most of the common varieties are still available. During the production process, it is simple to obtain a smooth or textured porcelain finish. For countertops in bathrooms or kitchens, high-gloss polished and honed surfaces are the most popular.

Limited Edges

Although it is possible to make all the common edges, including straight, beveled, and round, you might prefer a different way than some of these. Porcelain’s edge designs are fewer than those of natural stones since its patterns are merely superficial. The pattern will be removed if you choose more elaborate edges.

Conclusion

Porcelain is a hard material that resists wear and tear, is sleek and modern, is UV-resistant, and comes in various hues and designs. You can tailor anything to your preferences, including thickness and edge types. The main drawbacks of porcelain countertops are their superficial elegance and the likelihood that any chips or imperfections will be seen. However, porcelain’s advantages ultimately exceed its disadvantages, placing it among the top countertop materials available. So, with the proper maintenance, porcelain countertops are both a functional and stylish option for your modern kitchen. Check out Tez Marble’s catalogs if you decide to get porcelain or any other type of countertops. 

Panda White Quartz
09 Nov
Informational

Is Quartz good for countertops?

Most of you will agree that choosing countertops is one of the most exciting parts of revamping your kitchen or bathroom or designing a new one from scratch. Along with offering a durable and firm surface for cooking and dining, they also serve as the primary attraction for you and your guests. It’s crucial to pick the proper material for your kitchen and bathroom countertops. You have an array of choices available, so what you choose will depend entirely on your personal preferences and budget. Among these choices, quartz has become one of the most sought-after materials for countertops. In this article, we will see if quartz deserves its popularity and if it is a suitable material for you. 

Is Quartz Good for Countertops?

While quartz is a naturally occurring crystalline mineral made up of silica, quartz countertops are not entirely natural. It comprises about 90% powdered quartz mixed with resins, polymers, and pigments. The resins and polymers join the quartz dust together, and pigments give the countertop its color and pattern. Because quartz countertops are manufactured materials, they can have both upsides and downsides. 

  1. Strength and Durability

The extreme durability of quartz countertops is one of the main reasons people prefer them. Quartz is the best material to choose if you want something that won’t get cracked easily, making it a perfect choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops. To put the hardness in contrast, diamond scores 10 on the Mohs scale, and quartz score 7. Although quartz is tough, this does not mean that it is unbreakable. Quartz can be scratched and cracked, but the chances are pretty low unless you drop a stone onto it. 

  1. Looks

Quartz countertops also provide a wide selection of sophisticated and elegant styles. The choices are not limited to what nature provides, so the designs and colors of this manufactured material are practically limitless. With different pigments made up of materials like glass, manufacturers can produce almost any design based on your vision. Because of this freedom of choice, quartz countertops can be made to match floors and cabinets of any color and design. Moreover, most manufacturers can make quartz countertops look similar to marble or any other natural stone. This way, you can have the durability of quartz and the design and veining of natural stone. 

  1. Porosity

The microscopic space in a rock determines the degree of porosity. If a rock is porous, liquids can seep through the surface and might cause permanent discoloration and damage. Moreover, it might be challenging to clean porous countertops when bacteria get into pores. To counter this problem, homeowners using marble, granite, or other natural stone countertops regularly need to seal them. When you are looking for a countertop used in the kitchen or bathroom, you want it to be non-porous. Since quartz is engineered to be non-porous, you do not need to worry about permanent stains or annual sealing. 

  1. Maintenance

One of the main reasons why quartz is a low-maintenance material is that it is non-porous. We already know you need to seal natural stone countertops at least annually; you don’t have to worry about that with quartz. This eliminates the flaws that compromise the integrity of natural stone slabs and removes the need for annual sealing. Furthermore, quartz countertops are more scratch-resistant than other natural stone countertops. You also do not need to be extra careful when cleaning. A wet wipe cloth and some soap and water will do just fine. 

What are the downsides?

Before deciding to go for a quartz countertop and ordering one, you must also know its downsides. Although the upsides out-weighs the downsides, there are still some factors you should consider. 

  1. Cost

Compared to high-quality natural stone countertop slabs, the cost of quartz is reasonable. But that doesn’t mean it is affordable by all. Since the kitchen and bathrooms take quite a bit of the budget, it will be helpful if you know the price beforehand. Quartz countertops can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 per square foot. The price is determined by style, finish, manufacturer, and the quality of natural quartz used.

  1. Low Heat Resistance 

While quartz is heat-resistant, the resin and other fillers used in manufacturing quartz slabs are not. Putting hot pans on top of quartz surfaces can result in severe discoloration. If you see spots in your quartz countertop, it has likely been damaged by heat. Depending on the quality and manufacturer, quartz countertops are said to withstand up to 300°F, but you might want to check that double. 

  1. Installation

Unless you’re a skilled professional, you might not want to DIY your quartz countertop. The weight of a quartz slab can go up to 25 pounds making it extremely heavy. It would be best if you also were careful when joining slabs to make them seamless and not ruin the aesthetics. Depending on the design and patterns, this can be a daunting task.

  1. Indoors Only

When exposed to prolonged sunlight, quartz countertops tend to deteriorate and become discolored, so if you’re planning to use one for your outdoor kitchen, you’re better off using another material. The pigments on the quartz countertop will fade in the UV rays, giving the surface an unappealing yellow tint. So, avoid quartz countertops for the outdoor kitchen, and make sure your indoor kitchen is away from oversized windows. 

Are they worth it?

Compared to most natural stone countertops, the pros of quartz countertops exceed the cons. It has an infinite variety of stylish designs and is highly durable, resistant to stains, non-porous, and doesn’t require much maintenance. The most significant drawbacks of quartz countertops are the cost and lack of heat resistance. If that doesn’t bother you, go for it. 

Amazon
08 Nov
Design trends, Informational

Is Quartzite good for countertops?

All the designs, colors, and materials can be overwhelming when trying to work out which would suit your home. Quartzite is a naturally formed metamorphic rock made from sandstone. Quartzite has silently become one of the popular picks among the usual choices of marble and granite. With the beauty of marble and the strength of granite, most consider Quartzite a great investment. 

Is Quartzite a Good Choice for Countertops?

Just like marble, Quartzite is a metamorphic rock formed under intense pressure. It is a mixture of quartz and sandstone that recrystallizes under extreme temperatures. This results in quartz grains getting interlocked to form a durable rock with immense strength. Let’s see why Quartzite would make an excellent countertop for your bathroom and kitchen. 

  1. Cost

While Quartzite can be a tad bit expensive compared to granite, it is still cheaper than high-quality marble. As Quartzite ranks higher on the Mohs scale, its shaping and installation require better equipment and diamond-tipped drills. So, the cost goes up. Quartzite is compared to marble rather than granite due to its similar design and patterns, so if you’re a fan of marble but find it a bit costly, the cost of Quartzite will seem reasonable. What is a little price tag when you get such elegance in your home, right?

2. Durability

Countertops see a lot of activity, especially the ones in the kitchen. A countertop must be able to withstand occasional utensil drops, heat from a pan, and other wear and tear. While proper care is required for all countertops to ensure their longevity, Quartzite is a naturally strong mineral so you don’t have to be too careful around it.  

3. Maintenance

Quartzite has high porosity in its natural state. Since all the quantize countertops are sealed before use, you don’t have to worry about stains and cleaning. However, you need to regularly clean it and at least annually reseal it to ensure its longevity. As for cleaning, you can use any soft wipe cloth with soap and water. Moreover, the sealant also provides resistance against bacteria or mold, making the kitchen and bathroom a hygienic space.  

4. UV Resistant 

The formation of Quartzite requires extreme heat and pressure, so it is obvious to say it is heat and UV-resistant. So, using it as a kitchen countertop where it is frequently around hot pans and stoves is a good choice. It is also suitable for outdoor cooking spaces where it is exposed to natural light. The heat and UV from natural light will not damage quartzite countertops preventing the color from fading over time. 

5. Looks

Quartzite may have fewer color selections compared to other natural stones, but the available colors can still be personalized to match your aesthetics. As for the color selection, you will find Quartzite in neutral colors such as black, brown, gray, and beige, and sometimes with contrasting colors such as purple, and blue due to the presence of other minerals and oxidization. Quartzite offers earthly looks with beautiful swirly veins. It resembles marble but is slightly cheaper; perfect for modern houses. 

How is Quartzite countertop compared to other natural stones?

Due to its name, you might think quartz and Quartzite are closely related – it’s not. Although there are all-natural quartz countertops, most of the quartz countertop available in the market is manufactured. It is manufactured using a little bit of natural quartz mineral mixed with resin and recycled waste. While Quartzite is a natural stone. 

Quartzite is often mistaken for marble due to these two minerals sharing similar looks. They are both metamorphic stones formed under extreme heat and pressure. However, Quartzite is much stronger than marble. Marble has a Mohs score of 3, whereas Quartzite is 7.

When compared to granite, Quartzite tends to be slightly harder. Both can withstand the abuse of drops, heat, acidic foods, and such. Both require low maintenance and occasional sealing. There isn’t much difference between them in case of characteristics, but the designs vary.

Warp Up

There is no hard and fast rule when choosing a mineral for a countertop when remodeling a house. There are many choices and even more design options. However, there are certain factors you need to consider based on your vision. You need to keep in mind the cost of materials, compatibility with other furniture, installation, and, most importantly, your personal preferences. Remodeling might not be that difficult; it is the choices that make it difficult. Hopefully, the catalogs at Tez Marble can make the remodeling journey easier. 

07 Nov
Informational

What is Porcelain?

If you were to go to your kitchen right now and look for fine ceramic ware, there is a high chance you’d find one. Such translucent ceramic is called Porcelain. Porcelain is a type of ceramic material known around the world for its strength and beauty. With its roots going back over 2000 years to medieval China, Porcelain has become a prominent part of Southern and Western homes. From family heirlooms to bathroom sinks and countertops, Porcelain is everywhere. 

How is Porcelain made?

Porcelain is made just like any other type of ceramics – clay is mixed with supplements, molded, and cooked. Cooked at very high temperatures using fine clay, Porcelain is hard, dense, durable, and low-porous. Depending on the type of Porcelain, the temperature it is cooked in varies from 1100°C to 1400°C. 

The primary ingredients used in the production of Porcelain are the clay, silica, and feldspar or flint. Depending on the type of Porcelain, these materials are combined with varied proportions to obtain the desired result. After the required materials are collected and the desired amount is weighed, the raw materials are crushed and crumbled into the required size. Then the raw materials are put through a number of screenings to remove any foreign materials and ensure the size is uniform. If the raw materials need to be wet, they are mixed with water until the required consistency is obtained. Next, when all ingredients are combined, the initial porcelain body is formed. Depending on the type of porcelain product being produced, the body can be created using one of the four methods – soft plastic forming, stiff plastic forming, pressing, and slip casting. When the initial body is formed, Porcelain is bisque-fried to vaporize any contaminants. The body is then glazed and passed through magnetic screenings to remove pollutants. Depending on the desired finish, the ingredients used for glazing are mixed. Now for the final part, the Porcelain is cooked in a Kiln. During this time, a different reaction takes place when the temperature goes up. 

Types of Porcelain

The proportions of key ingredients in the mixture, firing temperature, and characteristics define the three types of Porcelain. 

  1. Hard Paste: This is the original Porcelain, with its origin dating back to 7th century China. To create hard-paste Porcelain, the combination of raw materials is fired at 1400°C to create an incredibly durable material. This is the beginning of the world’s obsession with Porcelain. 
  2. Soft Paste: Its origin can be dated back to 17th century Continental Europe, 10 years after the origin of hard-paste Porcelain. To create a soft paste, a mixture of raw materials is fired at 1100°C to 1250°C. The Soft-paste is comparatively weaker than hard paste and is made with a combination of bone ash, flint, quartz, soapstone, and clay.
  3. Bone China: First produced during 18th century Britain, Bone China shares similar characteristics to hard-paste Porcelain. It is made possible due to the discovery of the China Stone. 

Porcelain Countertops, FloorsPrimary used as pottery material; Porcelain can also be used as countertops and tile for floors. However, before it can be used as such, a coat of pigmented glaze is applied to increase its aesthetic appeal and make it look more similar to natural stones like marble and granite. When that’s done, Porcelain makes excellent countertops and floors. This is because of the characteristics and properties of Porcelain. The combination of materials it is made with and the temperature it is baked on make porcelain a hard and durable material. In fact, it is about 30% stronger than the hardest granite. You know it can absorb almost any shock that a kitchen and bathroom might face. Unless you take a hammer and smack it as hard as you can, Porcelain will not crack. Moreover, glazing drastically reduces the porosity of Porcelain. This makes it extremely water and stain-resistant. It doesn’t even require sealing, making it easy maintenance. And since it is a manufactured material, the designs and patterns are practically limitless. Finally, it is a lot cheaper than marble, granite, or quartz, including the maintenance cost. So, in the long run, it is better to opt for porcelain countertops and floors for your bathrooms and kitchens. Porcelain can withstand heat and doesn’t get affected by direct sunlight, while natural stones like granite might get discolored over time under direct sunlight. While granite and marble are better choices indoors, you can use Porcelain both indoors and outdoors. It is a versatile material, just like the choices of countertops, slabs, and tiles at TezMarble.

06 Nov
Informational

Is Granite good for countertops?

Granite took over the world by storm and became homeowners’ most preferred choice for countertops worldwide. It is highly durable, totally natural, and comes in a variety of colors and patterns suitable for virtually any kitchen and bathroom aesthetic. Apart from its durability and variety, there are other reasons why granite is at the top of the preferred material for countertops. 

Is Granite Good for Countertops? 

A couple of factors need to be considered when choosing a new countertop material. Since you are here, it is safe to assume granite is somewhere on the top of your list. Let’s look at why this choice of yours is a good idea. 

Durability

Granite is a natural stone, so you know it is hard, but how hard? It has a Mohs hardness score of seven and is second only to diamond! So, when installed properly, it will last for ages and will not need to be replaced in your lifetime. You will only replace it because you want to remodel the house. Granite is so tough that it resists scratching and cracking unless you actively hit it with a hammer. It is also fairly heat resistant, so if you have one as a kitchen countertop, occasional heat from a pan won’t harm it in any way. I would still be careful; extended exposure to heat might affect the sealing. 

Easy Maintenance 

Unlike other natural stones, granite is not a hassle when it comes to maintenance. After you have properly sealed the granite countertop during installation, it will prevent staining and resist bacteria. Cleaning a granite countertop doesn’t require strict directives; just take a clean cloth and wipe the countertop with normal soap and water. However, ensure you clean the countertop regularly; after each session, if it’s a kitchen countertop. 

Long-term Investment 

One of the major reasons why granite is so popular is because it is a relatively affordable long-term investment. While your neighbor has been busy replacing their laminate or resin countertops over the years, you do not have to worry about a thing with your granite countertop. Apart from that, granite countertops also increase the overall value of your house if you plan to sell it along the way. 

Beauty

Nothing can beat granite’s natural beauty. You think so, too – that is why it is at the top of your list, right? Each slab is unique; you can view them entirely before choosing one. Every single piece has a unique color, pattern, and other variations. This makes each countertop have its unique appeal. You have the option to choose from multiple vibrant colors with dramatic veining, or you can lean towards a softer tone. You can even get one that mimics the appearance of marble with the superior strength of granite. 

Types of granite countertops

Granite Slabs

Granite slabs are the most popular countertop material as they come as a big solid piece and lack ugly joins. The cost of granite slab varies in size and quality, but usually, it is the most expensive type of granite. You will have a hard time installing granite slabs on your countertop; better to call professionals. 

Modular Granite

This form of granite is relatively cheaper than the slabs and comes in large chunks that can be carefully laid adjacent to form a countertop. Although a countertop made using modular granite will have seams, the frequency will be much lower than that found when using tiles. Since modular granite comes in chunks, you can DIY your countertop without much hassle. 

Granite Tiles

Granite tiles are usually used in flooring and are not the top choice for countertops. Although it is extremely DIY, it comes in small portions that, when used as a countertop, will not look seamless. Granite tiles are not recommended to use on countertops. 

How much does granite cost?

While granite is a relatively cheap natural stone, the price can stack up depending on the size of your countertop. A good quality granite countertop can cost anything from $80 to over $200 per foot. If you’re building a new house or remodeling the old one, a substantial chunk of your budget will go towards granite. However, the initial cost will seem reasonable since it lasts a lifetime and requires low maintenance if sealed properly. Apart from that, it also has a high resale value and resonates with luxurious beauty. Considering these intangible factors, granite seems like a superior choice. 

Are granite countertops for you?

You probably have already made up your mind before even finding this article. You just wanted some additional assurance to solidify your decision. In that case, granite makes excellent countertops that are both durable and stylish. Although you need to have some degree of caution, you do not even need to be too careful with granite countertops; they can handle stains, heat, and occasion, utensil drops. This low-maintenance natural stone adds value to your house and is considered a good investment. It looks good, comes in many varieties, and is relatively affordable. There you have it. This is your call to go get a good granite countertop. If you need help choosing one, browse Tez Marble’s catalog.

05 Nov
Informational

Is Marble good for countertops?

Marble has been a trademark of luxury and elegance for centuries. From glorious architecture to beautiful sculptures, marble can be seen everywhere. With its swirly veins and dramatic look, it is best displayed on large areas like countertops. Its beauty and ability to hold immense weight make it ideal for such applications. 

Characteristics of Marble

There’s more to marble besides its beauty and strength. While it can hold significant loads, marble is considered a soft stone. Marble has been given a Mohs hardness score of just 3. It is susceptible to stains and scratches if not handled properly. Marble is a high-maintenance stone, which can make homeowners check off marble as a potential material for their kitchen. It also has a porous nature making it easier for moisture to get in and leave a stain. Also, harsh cleaning products should not be kept anywhere near a marble countertop. We’ll get into this in detail later. 

As marble is found in enormous deposits that are hundreds of meters thick, it is gathered in huge blocks ready for transport. Due to this, you can have a countertop that was harvested from a single block for a seamless design. Furthermore, marbles come in a variety of colors that are suitable for any aesthetic. 

Is Marble Good for Countertops?

There are tons of varieties of marble that come with different prices, designs, patterns, and qualities. The limitless variations of a marble depend on where it was harvested, what impurities it was in contact with, patterns, and veining. So, is marble good for countertops? Let’s weigh the pros and cons:

The Pros of Marble Countertops

  1. Looks: Be it any other natural stone or manufactured countertops, nothing can beat the sophistication and gracefulness of marble countertops. When designed properly, marble can make the whole room vibrant and make the eyes want more. It is the tender look and stunning swirly veins that bring out people’s sentiments. 
  2. Adds Quality: The elegance that comes with marble does not need to be debated. This elegance adds both tangible and intangible value to the entire house. Walking into the bathroom or kitchen with marble countertops and flooring creates a sense of royalty.
  3. Durability: If you can keep up with the maintenance and handle it with care, marble will last a lifetime. 

The Cons of Marble Countertops

  1. Porosity: Porosity is the percentage of empty space in a rock. Marble is s porous mineral that, if not handled with care, will leave a permanent stain. You can avoid this can routinely sealing the marble. Sealing at least once annually is highly recommended. If, in the worst-case scenario, you find a stain on your marble countertop, a few drops of ammonia mixed with a solution of hydrogen peroxide and a soft wipe cloth will do the trick.
  2. Etch: Marble is very prone to scratches if exposed to acidic materials for an extended period, especially where the polish has faded. 
  3. Price: Marble is a costly option when compared to its counterparts. The price starts from around an average of $50 per square foot and goes up to hundreds of dollars depending on the type of marble. This might be outside everyone’s budget.

Tips on Choosing Marble Countertops

Marble is an excellent choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops which comes in great variety, but you need to keep in mind certain things when choosing one. For example, world-famous marbles from Carrara are comparatively nonporous and dense, which makes them both stain-resistant and durable, but they are reactive to acids, so using them in the kitchen is not recommended. It would be best if you were thorough when choosing marble countertops. Here are some tips that could come in handy:

  1. Examine how different pieces of slabs come together. It would help if you kept a keen eye on where the veins are located and how they will connect with other marble slabs. It needs to look seamless; otherwise, it will ruin the aesthetic instead of enhancing it. 
  2. Consider the different finishes. There are a number of finishes that countertops come in; a certain type of marble might look better in one finish and not so much in another finish. A polished finished marble countertop might turn dull due to etching, while a honed finished marble countertop will not. So, if you’re into cooking, it is recommended you go for a honed finish. 
  3. Keep in mind the edged of the countertop. Marble is easy to work with tools, and hence there are endless edges to choose from. You need to have a vision of how you want the edges to be.
  4. Look out for cracks when ordering marble countertops. A crack is a sign of marble being dropped from a height. This will compromise its durability. However, a crack is different from a fissure. Fissure is naturally occurring and will not compromise the marble’s strengths. The easiest way to differentiate between crack and fissure is by sliding your fingernail across it. Your nail should slide across the fissure without matching it. 
  5. Seal the marble immediately.
03 Nov
Informational

What are the different countertop finishes?

Kitchens and bathrooms are more than just utility rooms. When designed right, they enhance the overall elegance of the whole house and act as a showpiece. Apart from well-crafted and cautiously chosen cabinets and other apparatus, floors and countertops immediately capture a visitor’s attention. There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to countertops and floors. Marbles, granite, and quartz are some of the most commonly used minerals used as countertops. Apart from the variety of colors and pattern choices, you also have to keep a keen eye on the type of finishes they come with. Each of the minerals has different characteristics that can influence its finish. I understand it can be a bit overwhelming, but here at Tez Marble, we work to help you choose the best countertop finish for your home. 

Different countertop finishes

When choosing a natural countertop, new homeowners start with a vision that comprises the color, tone, pattern, and finish. This vision will most probably include a shiny glossy countertop finish, but there are other available finishes. 

  • Polished Finish

A natural stone with a polished finish is the most common and standard finish that you can find on most homes. It has a high gloss and a very reflective surface which results in it being significantly less porous. This makes it ideal for kitchen and bathroom countertops as it tends to have a slick and hygienic surface. This finish has an elegant look, but you need to be extra careful with it to preserve its shine. This means you need to use good countertop cleaners with a soft cloth wipe to clean it. However, cleaning a polished finished countertop is relatively hassle-free when the right cleaners are used. As the shiny surface has sealed pores, it can resist stains and repel moisture. 

  • Honed Finish

Often known as matte finish, a honed finish has a muffled yet smooth look. It has little reflective properties but gives out a radiant effect that makes the whole room look enigmatic. This type of finish is available on most natural stone countertops but can be seen extensively on limestones. Honing a natural stone countertop increases its durability but makes it more porous and therefore making it susceptible to stains. Anything acidic might even ruin the surface and leave dark spots. You will need to reseal it often, and a daily wipe-down is absolutely necessary to remove fingerprints and dust. You will need to thoroughly wipe the countertop with a damp cloth and then finish with a dry wipe. If you want a honed finish countertop, it is recommended to go for marble as its soft veining wouldn’t be diminished. 

  • Sand Blasted Finish

Commonly used exterior surfaces, sand-blasted finishes give an eroded and timeworn look. This makes it ideal for use with rough stones floor and to match new pieces with old ones. Also, the other reason why it is preferred for outdoor surfaces is that its rough exterior is very susceptible to stains.

  • Leathered Finish

A leathered finish is a combination of honed and polished finishes. A natural stone countertop or slab with leathered finish begins with a honed finish brushed with diamond-tipped brushes to retain a dent-like texture. This is a relatively new style of finish that has been slowly taking over the market. It comes with a soft gloss that is less than what you see on a polished finish and has a textured look. While you can see a leathered finish on any colored stone, it is more commonly used on stones with a darker tone. You do not need to worry too much about maintaining a leathered finished countertop. Due to its textured nature, you will rarely notice any stains and fingerprints. 

  • Caressed Finish

This finish further improves a leathered finish stone by polishing the elevated surfaces. This makes the natural stone countertops with a leathered finish more stain-resistant.

Which one is the right for you?

The major factor that needs to be considered with choosing a finish is the look and how it will influence the overall aesthetic of the room. However, you should not overlook the maintenance required by the available finishes. If you want a balance between durability, elegance, and utility, a polished finish is the way to go. If you love to cook, the non-porous and sleek nature of the polished finish will make it easier for you to maintain the beauty of your countertop. A honed finish might look better in some cases, but it is more suspectable to stain. Leathered finish acts as middle ground if you want the shine of polished finish and the rustic look of honed finish. As you can see, each of the finishes has its pros and cons. You can browse Tez Marble’s catalog of countertops with various finishes to help make up your mind. 

Amazon
17 Oct
Informational

What is Quartzite?

Quartzite is a hard natural stone formed when a quartz-rich sandstone is altered by the pressure, heat, and chemical activity of metamorphism. The metamorphism recrystallizes the sand grains and the silica cement resulting in a network of interconnecting quartz grains of incredible strength. It is 7 on the Mohs hardness scale which means that it’s harder than glass and harder than a knife blade.

The color ranges from white or a light shade of pink or gray. Other impurities can cause it to be yellow, orange, brown, green, or blue.

Properties of quartzite

Hardness

The most admired quality of Quartzite is its hardness and durability. Not only does this make for a hard stone, but it also makes it easy to tell quartzite from the imposters. Quartz is 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. That means it’s harder than glass and harder than a knife blade. These things are easy to test with a sample of stone.

If a rock that is labeled as quartzite is soft, then it was mislabeled. The unfortunate term “soft quartzite” has emerged to explain why a rock labeled quartzite is actually not hard and durable like real quartzite. There is no such thing as soft quartzite though. There is only one kind of quartzite and it’s hard. A rock labeled as soft quartzite is most likely marble.

Resistance to acids

Quartzite will not etch from acids like lemon juice or vinegar. If a rock labeled as quartzite becomes etched from acid, then it’s been mislabeled. Marble and dolomitic marble, on the other hand, will etch from these acids. Dolomitic marble etches slightly more slowly than regular marble. But quartzite will not etch at all from standard kitchen acids.

Porosity

Quartzite has a range of porosities. Some, like the Taj Mahal or Sea Pearl, have been highly metamorphosed, and the minerals are bonded together tightly. White Macaubas and Calacatta Macaubas have been exposed to less intense pressure, so they are more porous and will benefit from sealing.

13 Sep
Informational

What is The Differences Between Natural and Manufactured Stone?

Many homeowners when revamping their house do not know the difference between a natural stone and manufactured stone. This can create a hassle as the quality of both the stones differ and using any of them can bring about different changes in your home decor. At its core, it is up to you what kind of stone you would like to use in your kitchen. Nature provides us with different qualities of stones, such as Quartzite, Limestone, Granite, Marble, Sandstone, Travertine, Onyx, etc. Most of these stones are renowned for their vibrancy in color, depth, quality, and a myriad of other things. However, all of these stones have different properties and it is advisable to consult a professional before using any of these natural or manufactured stones.

Natural Stone

Today most people invest in natural stone to get a classic and aesthetic style. The best aspect of a natural stone is the high simplicity quotient that comes along with the stone. These natural stones are basically made from real stones that are pulled from the earth. These real stones are found in large pieces which are sliced into thinner parts to get natural stones. Natural stone features imperfections, textures, and tonal variation that has formed over thousands of years. Some examples of natural stones are Marble, granite, limestone, slate, sandstone, basalt, quartz, etc.

Manufactured Stone

Manufactured stone is molded concrete or quartz that is artificially colored with paint to resemble natural stone. Nowadays man-made stone is quickly becoming the top choice for many interior designing projects. It is much lighter in weight and no fasteners or footings are needed for the installation, saving both money and time. These stones are normally made up of concrete materials that have been endowed into molds.

Natural Vs Manufactured Stone

Appearance

External appearance is what people are going to see first and as we know the first impression is the best. Manufactured stones can offer a realistic aesthetic appearance, especially from a distance. There are a wide variety of styles, patterns, and colors to choose from or embrace the man-made appearance.

As Natural stones are quarried their color variations are rich and the texture beckons you to run your hand across the surface. These characteristics make this unique and of an unrivaled appearance.

Cost

Natural stones are costly. Retrieving it from the ground is labor-intensive and quite a difficult process, often increasing the expenses. Its installation process is also daunting as it is quite heavy to work with. Whereas manufactured stones don’t require any fasteners or footers for installation.

Durability

One of the best aspects of selecting a natural is its durability. The essential part is that a natural stone will surely last for a long period of time. Sunlight does not have much effect on the stone. Also, The natural stone does not wear off easily. 

Manufactured products do not last as long as natural stone but can last beautifully for 50 years. However, cracking and fading can also occur.

Advantages of Natural Stones

  • More durable than manufactured stone because it’s less porous.
  • Color does not fade but ages in a natural, attractive manner.
  • The exceptional un-matched color vibrancy will look better over time
  • The value of the natural stone is more than a monetary measure. It involves longevity, ease of maintenance, permanence, and stability that far exceed the initial investment.

Manufactured Stones

  • They are more consistent in color and shape and provide a more uniform look.
  • Manufactured stone is also used in wood-frame structures due to its lightweight nature.
  • Of less cost compared to natural stone which is almost 3 times the cost.
  • Easy installation.