Material Comparison Chart

Granite

Engineered Stone

Solid Surfaces

Laminates

Brand Names

Silestone, Cambria, Zodiaq

Corian, Staron, Hi-Macs

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: Printed colors/patterns on a wooden 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

Hot pots can warp, melt, or discolor the surface

Cleanliness

Porous, when sealed correctly it is easy to clean

Non-porous - very resistant to bacteria

Deep scratches can harbor dirt and or moisture

Non-porous - easy to clean

Scratch Resistance

Highly scratch resistant - small scratches can be professionally repaired

Highly scratch resistant

Scratches easily - can be polished out easily

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

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

Highly visible seams - consistent and uniform color and patterning

Maintenance

May require periodic sealing to prevent staining

n/a

Scratches can be sanded out

 Must be replaced often due to waterdamage

Price

$46/sf and up

MORE expensive than granite

Price varies based on color - many of which are more expensive than granite

Inexpensive