Solid Surface worktops - Quartz Worktops - The differences explained
There are still a substantial number of kitchen buyers who don't know the differences between Solid Surface Worktops and Quartz Worktops so have decided to add this latest blog to try and make the differences a little clearer before you make a decision.
The distinct differences between Quartz and Solid Surfaces are:
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Quartz Worktops have a sheen finish unless honed and Solid Surface worktops have a matt finish.
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Quartz worktops have a greater heat resistance than Solid Surfaces but trivets or protection boards should be used on all surfaces and hot items should never be placed directly on any surface - Any salesperson who tells you otherwise is misinforming you.
- Quality Solid Surface worktops can only truly be defined as those of greater thickness such as Corian, HiMacs and Staron bespoke and Swanstone bespoke. There are of course others but those surfaces of less than 3mm are not, by any stretch of the imagination, in the same league.
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Solid Surfaces can be thermoformed and are more versatile when it comes to shaping and curves.There are very few limits on any style of design
- Solid Surfaces offer seamless joints and Quartz joints are visble. The longest length before a joint becomes necessary or Quartz is approximately 3020mm. Silestone do offer certain colours within their range that allow a length of 3200mm before joints are required
- Both Quartz and Solid Surfaces are non porous
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Quartz worktops have a greater scratch resistance than Solid Surfaces
- Quartz surfaces can be utilised as a behind hob splashback yet Solid surfaces need to meet a minimum distnce requirement rendering a deeper than standard worktop in the hob area
- Examples of Quartz surfaces are, Zodiaq, Silestone,Prestige Quartz, Caesarstone, Luxore, Arenastone, Compaq and Cimstone and all are made on a Breton Machine
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Zodiaq Quartz Worktops are distributed by DuPont, the manufacturers of Corian and are subject to the DuPont Fabricator and Installer Network conditions for sale and warranty
- Currently all Quartz surfaces are manufactured outside of the UK but are mschined for your kitchen design by a number of fabricators.
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Silestone distinguishes itself from other quartz surfaces with the inclusion of Microban throughout the core of all it's colours but this does render it a more expensive slab than the rest
- Solid Surface examples are Corian, Swanstone and HiMacs.
- More recently, thinner quartz surfaces have been made available to buyers and although these may be seen as an option to certain buyers, they cannot compare with slabs of over three times the thickness. What should never be considered, in my opinion, are surfaces that fit over your existing tops. Existing laminate tops are too flexible to act as a quality substrate and cracks appearing are a greater possibility.
- Dark and the more vibrant coloured Solid Surfaces are subject to disclaimers from the manufacturers warranty period when used for residential purposes becuase they will show up scratches easier particularly in heavy traffic areas such as a kitchen. This doesn't, however, limit you as the buyer provided you sign a disclaimer form.
- To learn more about Solid Surfaces and Quartz Surfaces we have asked a series of questions to a number of the better known manufacturers of both and it makes very interesting reading that I'm certain may help you make the right decision for your worktops. Click here to view the questions and answers.
Whatever surface you choose obtain comparative costs, consider the guarantees offered, research the properties of the surface and remember that a more cost efficient choice is not always the cheapest choice
I hope this assists you in making your choice.
About the Author
Tim Foley is founder of Kitchensfitted an established research and information resource for the kitchen buyer. T Foley Interiors specialise in the provision of Corian and Quartz worktops to both Commercial and Residential clients in the UK and Ireland. His TV credits include Project Consultant with Granada ITV on programmes such as Better Homes; 60 Minute Makeover (series 1&2) Tonight with Trevor McDonald.
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