Your Questions About Quartz Countertops

crystal power answers:

I can’t help you with a particular store in your area, but consider creating a countertop out of granite tile. It’s much cheaper, easier to install, and if you have minimal or no grout lines, it looks just as good as a slab.

crystal power answers:

Http://sherlink.sherwin.com/swapp/color_visualizer/

crystal power answers:

The best cleaning solution is Water. SileStone has Microban antimicrobial protection built-in which means that the Silestone inhibits the growth of microbes like bacteria, mold and mildew. This will never be washed off, thus water is the best solution.

crystal power answers:

Both are quite nice. Quartz is fun because:
it sparkles
it doesn’t need periodic sealing like granite does
it will not stain
is harder than granite so less likely to chip

HOWEVER:
even though quartz is a very hard material, it can cause marks when cutting on it
although it is heat resistant, it is not recommended to put hot pots and pans directly on it as the adhesive material that binds the quartz together will change color with the heat
Quartz is also much more expensive than granite (I have granite, by the way, and I love it)

So… Have you conisdered cement countertops? They work if your looking to have a zen kitchen but if you’re going classy, you’ll want to forget that….

crystal power answers:

That’s not a DIY project. The manufacturing process requires huge pieces of industrial equipment, and overhead hoists to move the materials. Even just installing it would be difficult without a small army of strong helpers. Then there’s the issue of reinforcing the cabinets to support the weight. If you’re intent on a DIY job, look into corian or other solid surface product. They’re much more user friendly, and can be worked with basic woodworking tools.