QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS
The process to convert quartz to a slab counter top was patented
by Breton, an Italian company, and is used by all companies
which manufacture engineered stone. This manufacturing
process uses raw quartz crystals ranging in size from coarse
grains to the size of rock salt. Once the quartz is ground and
selected, the crystals are combined with bonding agents (resin)
and color, then heated and vibro-compacted to form an
impenetrable surface. The resulting slabs are a matrix of 93%
quartz and 7% resin binders and pigments ... free of fissures and
cracks, and impervious to water, moisture, or bacteria.
Industry wide, all quartz countertops are made with 93 percent
quartz or they cannot claim the hardness, durability, or
impermeability of a true quartz surface. The prescribed mixture
results in a product that is non-porous, exceedingly durable, and
more than twice as strong as granite and less likely to break
during fabrication.
The process to convert quartz to a slab counter top was patented
by Breton, an Italian company, and is used by all companies
which manufacture engineered stone. This manufacturing
process uses raw quartz crystals ranging in size from coarse
grains to the size of rock salt. Once the quartz is ground and
selected, the crystals are combined with bonding agents (resin)
and color, then heated and vibro-compacted to form an
impenetrable surface. The resulting slabs are a matrix of 93%
quartz and 7% resin binders and pigments ... free of fissures and
cracks, and impervious to water, moisture, or bacteria.
Industry wide, all quartz countertops are made with 93 percent
quartz or they cannot claim the hardness, durability, or
impermeability of a true quartz surface. The prescribed mixture
results in a product that is non-porous, exceedingly durable, and
more than twice as strong as granite and less likely to break
during fabrication.
SOLID SURFACE
Developed specifically for the Kitchen and Bath industry with
today's sophisticated homeowners desires and needs in mind, solid
surface countertops combine the desirable characteristics of
beauty, easy care and ruggedness. Solid surface countertops such
as Corian, is a synthetic blend of natural minerals and
high-performance acrylic, as a practical, inexpensive alternative to
granite.
Manufacturers offer these products in several grade levels, which
vary by the size of the mineral particles they contain. The higher
the grade, the more they resemble granite, and the higher their
price. Solid color styles are less granulated and do not resemble
stone at all. Solid surface tops are much lighter weight than granite
or natural stone, with ½" material weighing only 4.5 lbs per sq. ft.
Solid surface countertops resist attack by acids, alkalis and water;
they also will resist stains as well as the growth of bacteria, fungus,
mold and mildew. However, stain -resistance is not absolute,
especially in coordinating sinks, which may require frequent
scrubbing to maintain their original color and finish. Manufacturers'
warranties generally range from 10-15 years, when properly
installed by a licensed fabricator.
Developed specifically for the Kitchen and Bath industry with
today's sophisticated homeowners desires and needs in mind, solid
surface countertops combine the desirable characteristics of
beauty, easy care and ruggedness. Solid surface countertops such
as Corian, is a synthetic blend of natural minerals and
high-performance acrylic, as a practical, inexpensive alternative to
granite.
Manufacturers offer these products in several grade levels, which
vary by the size of the mineral particles they contain. The higher
the grade, the more they resemble granite, and the higher their
price. Solid color styles are less granulated and do not resemble
stone at all. Solid surface tops are much lighter weight than granite
or natural stone, with ½" material weighing only 4.5 lbs per sq. ft.
Solid surface countertops resist attack by acids, alkalis and water;
they also will resist stains as well as the growth of bacteria, fungus,
mold and mildew. However, stain -resistance is not absolute,
especially in coordinating sinks, which may require frequent
scrubbing to maintain their original color and finish. Manufacturers'
warranties generally range from 10-15 years, when properly
installed by a licensed fabricator.
Huntsville Granite & Marble, LLC © 2010
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| HUNTSVILLE GRANITE & MARBLE 11309-H SOUTH MEMORIAL PKWY HUNTSVILLE, AL 35803 256-489-3890 256-489-3892 (Fax) SHOWROOM HOURS: Monday – Friday 8AM – 5PM Saturday: 8AM until Noon Other times by appointment |
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