The Advantages of Using Consentino Silestone Ethereal Countertops

When it comes to designing or renovating a kitchen or bathroom, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right countertops. However, one brand that stands out for its innovation and quality is Consentino Silestone Ethereal. These surfaces play a crucial role in both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of these spaces. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide. It starts with  Floform / PF Custom Countertops in Edmonton experts walk you through every step of the way to tailor solutions that will exceed your expectations.

Consentino Silestone Ethereal countertops are made with HybriQ + Technology, which sets them apart from other countertop materials. This advanced technology combines natural quartz with raw materials to create a highly durable and versatile surface.

Here are some of the advantages of using Consentino Silestone Ethereal countertops in your kitchen and bathroom:

1. Durability

Consentino Silestone Ethereal countertops are incredibly durable, making them an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as the kitchen and bathroom. The HybriQ + Technology used in their production makes them resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. This means you can use your countertops without worrying about damaging them, even with hot pots and pans or sharp knives.

2. Aesthetics

The unique technology used in Consentino Silestone Ethereal countertops allows for the creation of a wide range of colors and designs. Whether you prefer a classic, minimalist look or a bold, modern design, there is an Ethereal countertop to suit your taste. The surface also has a luxurious and natural feel, adding a touch of elegance to any space.

3. Low Maintenance

Thanks to the innovative HybriQ + Technology, Consentino Silestone Ethereal countertops require minimal maintenance. Unlike other countertop materials that need frequent sealing or polishing, these surfaces are non-porous and do not require any sealing. They are also resistant to bacteria and mold growth, making them a hygienic choice for kitchens and bathrooms.

4. Sustainability

Consentino is committed to sustainability, and this is evident in the production of their Silestone Ethereal countertops. The HybriQ + Technology used reduces the environmental impact by using recycled materials in its composition. This makes it a great choice for environmentally-conscious homeowners. Additionally, the long lifespan of these countertops means they do not need to be replaced frequently, reducing waste.

5. Versatility

The versatility of Consentino Silestone Ethereal countertops is unmatched. They are suitable for various applications in both residential and commercial settings. From kitchen and bathroom countertops to backsplashes, flooring, and even wall cladding. They can be custom-made to fit any size and shape, making them a versatile option for any design project.

In conclusion, choosing Consentino Silestone Ethereal countertops for your kitchen or bathroom is a smart decision. With their durability, aesthetic appeal, low maintenance, sustainability, and versatility, these surfaces offer numerous benefits. So next time you are looking for the perfect countertop material, consider Ethereal by Consentino Silestone. Your kitchen and bathroom will thank you! So why wait? Start planning your dream design now Floform PF Custom Countertops.

Browse all of our countertop surfaces online, or come to our showroom to see the designs, styles, and colours available. 

We have one of the largest inventories of natural stone, marble, quartz, and other countertop surfaces. Call PF Custom Countertops today at 888-484-0831 or contact us online for more information. 

Introducing the exciting new Silestone Le Chic Collection from Consentino.

Kitchens and bathrooms are the most important areas in your home. They play a significant role in our daily lives, and we use them for different purposes. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that these areas are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. Floform / PF Custom Countertops in Edmonton can tailor solutions that will exceed your expectations. If you're looking for a durable, stylish, and easy-to-maintain material, Consentino Silestone Le Chic is the ideal option.  

This collection is a natural stone collection exudes timeless charm and will bring a touch of majesty to your space with warm tones like Versailles Ivory Golden. Le Chic features beautiful, veined patterns, including Versailles Ivore, Bohemian Flame, Eclectic Pearl, Victorian Silver, Parisian Bleu, and Romantic Ash. 

Silestone Le Chic Collection from Consentino brings sophistication and a dramatic touch and elevates the decoration of any space.

Surfaces inspired by natural stone: the veining is back

When it comes to materials that are representative of this style, veined natural stone is at the forefront. Its unique textures, subtle colours and earth origin bring a sense of calm and harmony to any space.

Decoration with veins and bold colours emerges as a counterpoint to minimalism. There are those who embrace creativity and express their personality through decoration, using veining.

Discover the new veined colours from Le Chic by Silestone 

Versailles Ivory: golden veins of majestic character

It is the warmest shade in the collection. A subtle two-tone marbled and gradient background able to mesmerise thanks to its striking glints of gold inlays inspired by the Japanese Kintsugi technique.

Bohemian Flame: a fiery touch of coppery shine

Silestone Le Chic Bohemian Flame

It is a dark grey shade with a matt finish and a texture reminiscent of a mixture of cement and limestone. Drawing inspiration from the movement of the lava flows that scar the volcanic soil, it features fine sinuous veins with copper-toned metallic inlays.

Eclectic pearl: a silver desert filled with light

A smooth background featuring delicate shades with diamond-like inlays. Eclectic Pearl mesmerises with its delicate veining, its texture and its surface dotted with metallic touches throughout. This colour is synonymous with timeless elegance and individuality, a fusion of classic and modern, with a unique charm that captures the essence of sophistication.

Victorian Silver: patterns reminiscent of pearly rivers

A soft and subtle two-tone marbled background with gradients and great depth. Its cool-toned background blends with its silver and dark grey veining to achieve an elegant colour that combines perfectly with warm and cool tones.

Parisian Bleu: memories of the City of Light

Silestone Le Chic Pariasian Bleu

A deep bluish tone with lots of personality and a strong character. Its majestic background, inspired by the well-known stones of the Roman Empire, is crossed by delicate veins and ochre inlays.

Insert: Silestone Le Chic Pariasian Bleu imager here

Romantic Ash: a dance of silver and glass

Large veins and grain inlays of different sizes reminiscent of the Milky Way in a starry sky cross the blue background of Romantic Ash, enhancing its depth.

Why choose Consentino Silestone Le Chic for your Kitchen and Bathroom Countertops

1. Durable:

Silestone Le Chic is a high-quality engineered stone made from a combination of natural minerals and quartz. It is one of the hardest materials available on the market, which makes it resistant to scratch, impact, and other sources of damage. This property makes it a perfect choice for areas with high traffic such as the kitchen and bathroom.

2. Aesthetic:

The look and feel of your kitchen and bathroom countertops can significantly influence the style and feel of these spaces. Silestone Le Chic is available in a range of colors and finishes, giving you the freedom to select the perfect color and tone to match your decor.

3. Hygienic:

In kitchen and bathroom spaces, hygiene is paramount. Silestone Le Chic is made from non-porous materials, which means that it does not harbor bacteria or other germs that can be harmful to your family's health. The surface is also easy to clean, ensuring that your countertops remain spotless and hygienic with minimal fuss. 

4. Eco-friendly:

If you're looking for a countertop material that is eco-friendly, Silestone Le Chic is an excellent option. This material is manufactured with sustainability in mind, and it is made with recycled materials.  

5. Low Maintenance:

Everyone loves a countertop material that requires minimal maintenance. Silestone Le Chic fits this description perfectly. It requires no sealing, polishing, or reconditioning, making it a low-maintenance option.  

The Sustainability Benefits of Consentino Silestone Patented HybriQ+ TechnologySilestone  

As homeowners, we are always on the lookout for home upgrades that will not only improve our living space but also contribute to a more sustainable environment. Consentino Silestone's patented HybriQ+ Technology is a prime example of an eco-friendly solution that offers a wide range of benefits for homeowners, especially for those looking for durable and sustainable kitchen and bathroom countertops. 

One of the most significant sustainability benefits of HybriQ+ Technology is that it aims to reduce the carbon footprint of production while guaranteeing unparalleled durability, quality, and aesthetics. The technology replaces petroleum-based resins with bio-renewable content derived from agricultural waste and recycled raw materials. This means that HybriQ+ countertops can contribute to a reduction in the consumption of natural resources while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 

Choosing the right countertop material for your kitchen and bathroom can be a daunting task. You want something that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Silestone Le Chic offers the perfect combination of durability, style, and low maintenance requirements. With this material, you don't have to compromise on style or function. If you're looking for a countertop material that can endure the rigors of daily use, Silestone Le Chic is the perfect option. It will not only add value to your home, but it will also ensure that your kitchen and bathroom spaces are functional, stylish, and hygienic. 

Browse all of our countertop surfaces online, or come to our showroom to see the designs, styles, and colours available. 

We have one of the largest inventories of natural stone, marble, quartz, and other countertop surfaces. Call PF Custom Countertops today at 888-484-0831 or contact us online for more information. 

Porcelain: The Multi-Purpose Material You Never Knew You Needed

When you think of porcelain, what's the first thing that comes to mind? Most people would say "countertops," and while that's true, there's so much more to this versatile material than just a pretty kitchen or bathroom surface. From fireplaces to interior walls to tailor-made solutions, porcelain is the perfect material for any home renovation project.

What is Porcelain?

Porcelain is a high-tech material made from a special type of clay known as China clay. This clay contains a high percentage of kaolinite, silica, feldspar, and other mineral oxides, which gives porcelain its exceptional strength and durability. The combination is then fired at an extremely high temperature (around 1400℃) to create a dense material that's nearly impervious to stains, heat, UV rays, scratching, chips, and cracks. To add a pop of color and pattern, pigmented glazes are added during the manufacturing process.

What Makes Porcelain So Special?

Aside from its strength and durability, one of the biggest advantages of porcelain is its eco-friendliness. Unlike other man-made surfaces, porcelain is made from 100% natural, raw, and clay-based materials. It doesn't contain any harmful chemicals or resins, making it a safe and recyclable option. So, after years of use, you can easily recycle your old porcelain counters.

Applications Beyond Countertops

While porcelain countertops are the most common use for this material, there are many other applications beyond the kitchen and bathroom. For example, the Edmonton-based PF Custom Countertops offers the Infinity brand porcelain that produces large porcelain stoneware slabs perfect for any type of architectural project.

Infinity porcelain offers tailored solutions to meet the needs of customers, architects, and industry professionals. Whether you're going for a modern, classical, or industrial look for your walls or floors, indoors or out, Infinity's wide variety of collections guarantees satisfaction.

Quality and Performance

Choosing the right floor and wall coverings means finding solutions that reflect your taste and work well with your furniture, as well as providing the right technical requirements and quality standards. The Infinity large-size slabs come in three thicknesses to meet any technical, architectural, and design need. These slabs are designed to meet high-end tastes while also being environmentally friendly, resistant to any type of chemical agent, fireproof, and extremely durable.

Wall Coverings

Infinity's large-size porcelain stoneware slabs offer a jointless solution for walls that are easy to care for without needing repainting when dirty. You can clean them with regular household detergents, making them a practical and stylish choice.

Floor Coverings

Say goodbye to gaps between tiles gathering dust and dirt, and hello to an eye-catching, highly scratch-resistant floor. Infinity large-size porcelain stoneware slabs are the perfect solution for all kinds of design problems. Whether you're trying to cover a commercial or residential floor, Infinity has the solution for you.

Price Comparison

When comparing the cost of porcelain vs. granite or quartz countertops, the price comes down to all the variables. While one material may not always be more expensive or cheaper than the others, porcelain countertops are usually cheaper than quartz and can be cheaper than granite. However, specific quotes from installers are needed for your installation. The good news about the cost of porcelain counters is that once installed, maintenance costs are extremely low.

In conclusion, porcelain is more than just a pretty countertop material. Its versatility, durability, eco-friendliness, and affordability make it an excellent choice for any home renovation project. Whether you're looking to add a pop of color to your walls, create a jointless and easy-to-maintain floor, or simply looking to have new countertops, porcelain offers so much more.

For over 40 years PF Custom Countertops has been making a difference in customers homes. Today they are making a difference to the environment through the brands they partner with, and the products they offer. To learn more about greener kitchens, come by their showroom.

Have a question about quartz countertops? Contact PF Custom Countertops today at 888-484-0831 to find the best quartz countertops in Edmonton and surrounding areas. You can also visit our showroom or request a free-in-home estimate to get started.

Greener Kitchens, PF Custom Countertops are making a difference.

There are many options for those looking for new countertops for kitchens and baths. From Granite, laminate, solid surface to quartz, all offering a variety of surfaces, colours, and materials. But what if you are looking for a quartz countertop that is considered greener.

Edmonton based PF Custom Countertops is doing its part in supplying quartz countertops that are more sustainable in the way they are manufactured and the materials they are constructed with.

Of the many brands of quartz countertops, PF Custom Countertops offers, Cambria, Caesarstone, Corian, Hanstone, the one that presents itself as a leader in green technology is Silestone® by Consentino.

Quartz Silestone® HybriQ® Technology

Silestone® is a world leader of quartz surfacing and has been distributing globally for more than 10 years. Since its debut, they have been a pioneer by bringing color into kitchens, introducing a hygienic countertop, and having a continued focus on environmental initiatives, such as introducing its “Eco by Cosentino” line in 2012 and now culminating in its HybriQ - a new, high-performance blend of premium minerals, quartz, and recycled materials.

The innovative HybriQ® technology is an entirely new product composition and manufacturing method for Silestone – with a newly debuted sustainable manufacturing process that uses 99% reused water, 100% renewable electric energy, zero water waste and a minimum of 20% recycled raw materials within HybriQ+® products’ composition.

Available in over 80 colors and a wide range of textures and formats, the aesthetic and design possibilities of Silestone® quartz are limitless. It is a perfect surface for many applications in kitchens and bathrooms.

For over 40 years PF Custom Countertops has been making a difference in customers homes. Today they are making a difference to the environment through the brands they partner with, and the products they offer. To learn more about greener kitchens, come by their showroom.

Have a question about quartz countertops? Contact PF Custom Countertops today at 888-484-0831 to find the best quartz countertops in Edmonton and surrounding areas. You can also visit our showroom or request a free-in-home estimate to get started.

Throwing the Ultimate East Coast Kitchen Party

If you grew up on the East Coast, then you know the tradition of a kitchen party. Kitchen parties are not just about food; they are about friends and family, conversation, great local music, and a time to break away from the screens and interact face-to-face.

This year you are ready to take on the job of hosting the ultimate kitchen party. While being the host or hostess can be stressful, there are things you can do to pull off a successful, traditional kitchen party without losing too much sleep over it.

Why are Kitchen Parties So Much Fun?

Kitchen parties are fun for holidays or just-because-gatherings. The fridge is conveniently located right there, so no one must leave the conversation for a refill. Food is all kept in the kitchen, minimizing what you must clean up later, and everyone is in close quarters which forces people to remain social.

Tips for Hosting a Fun, Memorable Kitchen Party

You do not have to be from the East Coast to pull off a successful East Coast kitchen party. With the right amount of pre-planning, you can get the job done and look like a pro host. While planning your upcoming party, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Keep the Food Appropriate – Remember a kitchen party is not a dinner party. Instead, it is a social gathering. You want your food to consist of appetizers and things that people can easily eat while carrying on a conversation. Finger foods, dips, chips, and even one-bite deserts are best here.

• Include Local Food – You cannot host an East Coast party without the food from the area. Consider doing a seafood chowder and serve it up in mini cups so guests can drink it up. Include produce from the local farmer’s markets or show off your culinary gusto with bacon-wrapped local sea scallops.

• ·Nova Scotia Mixers – Local wines from the vineyards are a good start, along with craft beers from favourite local breweries. Do not forget local spirits too. You can always request that guests bring their own to the party and specify to keep it local for authenticity.

• Clean Up the Kitchen – While you do not need to get on your hands and knees with a toothbrush and magnifying glass, you do want your kitchen clean for company. Mop the floors, clean out and organize your refrigerator, and polish up the countertops, so you are ready to host.

Are Your Countertops Ready for the Task?

While you are mentally prepared for the job of hosting a kitchen party, how are your countertops holding up? Now is the perfect time to update your kitchen with new quartz, granite or solid surface. 

See your options at PF Custom Countertops today. Our local showroom lets you browse everything from quartz countertops to the latest granite, laminate and solid surface countertops, so you can remodel your kitchen within budget and suit your style.

Contact us online or call us toll-free in Alberta at 1-888-484-0831 to learn more about our quartz, granite, laminate, and solid surface countertops in Sherwood Park, Edmonton, Fort Saskatchewan, and St. Albert areas.

Upgrade Your Kitchen With New Countertops

Whether considering granite, quartz, laminate, or solid surface countertops in Edmonton and surrounding areas, make PF Custom Countertops your first choice.

Could Your Kitchen Dramatically Improve Just by Upgrading the Countertops?

Sometimes a kitchen does not need a full renovation. In fact, quite often, all a kitchen requires is an update to the countertops.  

Countertops play a central role in room aesthetics, and the right granite countertops in Sherwood Park residences can create a look of refinement and elegance. Most importantly, they can take an old kitchen and make it suitable for modern times.

4 Ways Upgrading to Natural Stone or Solid Surfaces Countertops in Edmonton Helps Your Home’s Appeal

Certain varieties of countertops may add value to your home, improve aesthetics, and even make your kitchen more functional. Some are resistant to stains, which makes them easy to maintain. Others are delicate but add timeless beauty and appeal. 

Whether you’re looking to renovate or design your dream kitchen or bathroom, we can help you every step of the way. As a locally based supplier of natural stone, we also offer a wide selection of laminate, solid surface and more, so you can benefit from upgrading or replacing your quartz countertops in Fort Saskatchewan: 

• Natural Stone is Beautiful - Natural stone countertops in St. Albert homes are beautiful, sophisticated, and elegant. There are dozens of colours and patterns to choose from too, so you can find one that suits your kitchen’s current colour and style. Also note that no two slabs of stone are the same, so your surface will be unique.

• It is the More Affordable Option - While stone surfaces cost money up front, they save you the cost of a full kitchen renovation. Instead of spending $20,000 or more on a new kitchen, you may only pay $1,000 to $5,000 on countertops. Granite, for example, has become very affordable and prices have dropped dramatically, making it a popular choice even on tight budgets.

• Easy to Clean - Compared to old tile surfaces, the stone countertop is easier to clean, and if you opt for quartz counters, you get a hygienic option that resists germs and bacteria.

• Highly Durable - Tile and laminate surfaces tend to chip, fade, and crack. They will warp under heat, and eventually lose their shine. Stone surfaces, on the other hand, are incredibly strong and durable.

Are you ready to see how dramatically you can change your kitchen with a simple countertop upgrade?

Whether you are considering granite, solid surface or quartz countertops in Edmonton, make PF Custom Countertops your first stop. 

At PF Custom Countertops we have the right material, fixtures, and people to make the planning and installation process as easy as possible. Our customer service speaks for itself with free in-home quotes and installation-done-in-a-day.

Browse all of our countertop surfaces online, or come to our showroom to see the designs, styles, and colours available.

We have one of the largest inventories of natural stone, marble, quartz, and other countertop surfaces. Call PF Custom Countertops today at 888-444-0831 or contact us online for more information.

Granite Versus Laminate: Pros and Cons for Your Kitchen Countertops

Kitchen countertops can make a huge impact on the look of your space, but they also need to be designed to fit in your budget and function well for your living space. It can be challenging to find the right blend of affordability, aesthetic appeal, and functionality when it comes to surfaces in high traffic areas of your home like the kitchen. With so many options available, you may be wondering what the difference is between popular countertops like granite and laminate. Weigh the pros and cons below and contact the dedicated professionals at PF Custom Countertops. With years of experience and an extensive portfolio of custom projects, we can direct you towards the right composition and style for your new kitchen or bathroom countertops.

Advantages of Granite and Laminate Countertops

Here are some of the key benefits and differences between granite countertops and laminate countertops.

Formica 3

• Durability Granite excels when it comes to offering a long-lasting surface that can take a beating. If you have an active kitchen or young kids who are not the gentlest on the finishes in your home, granite is up to the challenge of sustaining impact, resisting stains, and avoiding scratches. Laminate, on the other hand, is more vulnerable to showing signs of wear and tear, heat, and colour from contact with liquids or other materials.

• Care – If you prefer a hands-off approach when it comes to your kitchen, laminate counters offer a very low-maintenance solution. Clean regularly with a gentle, non-abrasive material and they should be good to go. Granite requires a bit more attention and may need to be resealed occasionally to limit staining and prevent damages.

• Affordability – If your budget does not leave a lot of room for counters, laminate is the more affordable option. Granite is a natural stone countertop and thus more difficult to source, making it a more expensive option. You should also factor maintenance and repairs into your cost consideration. Note that less durable laminate surfaces can be prone to damages which can increase the frequency of repair work and raise costs over time.

• Finish – Whether you prefer consistency or a totally unique statement, both granite and laminate have a wide range of patterns and finishes. Colour variations and control are limited when it comes to granite, but the product will be completely natural and one-of-a-kind. Laminate can still make a big statement, with more than 250 stock colours to choose from, and multiple finishes, including matte, glossy, or textured.  PF Custom Countertops will help match your colour and style based on your decor needs.  

Wilsonart Laminate

Work with the reliable and reputable team at PF Custom Countertops for counters in a variety of materials, styles, and price points. We have top brand names - Formica, Arborite, Nevamar, Wilsonart, and Pionite. Our customer service speaks for itself with free in-home quotes and installation-done-in-a-day.

Kitchen Countertops Edmonton

Visit our extensive showroom or call us toll-free at 888-484-0831. Contact us online with your questions today about granite or laminate countertops to learn more.

WHAT’S THE RIGHT COUNTERTOP FOR YOUR KITCHEN?

Choosing your custom countertop comes with a lot of consideration, from style to maintenance requirements and more. But, regardless of your project’s size or complexity, PF Custom Countertops in Edmonton can tailor solutions that will exceed your expectations. 

PF Custom Countertops offers multiple options that will fit any home renovation project. Here are considerations for just a few common countertop options.

Quartz

Pros: Manufacturers engineer quartz countertops out of stone with an elegant finish to complement any space. Seven percent of their composition is made of resin binders and pigments. It isn’t porous, so it isn’t necessary to seal it, unlike alternatives such as granite. It’s attractive, durable, hygienic, and will add value to your home. 

Cons: Quartz is susceptible to heat, including extreme temperature changes and prolonged exposure to high heat. Exposure to heat runs the risk of damaging the countertops. Using quartz for outdoor projects isn’t advised, as sun exposure can erode the colour over time. 

Granite

Pros: Homeowners love granite countertops for the luxury factor and overall resilience to scratching, staining and heat. PF Custom Countertops offers an array of colours and styles, so clients have a custom one-of-a-kind look. This makes it a high-demand option for kitchen renovations. 

Cons: While granite countertops are durable overall, it requires sealing each year to extend their longevity. Because granite is porous, if it isn’t properly sealed, it will suck up oils and liquids such as juice, wine or other spills. In addition, sealing is essential to prevent bacteria from forming. Fortunately, this maintenance task is quick and simple. Learn  how to seal granite countertops.

Laminate 

Pros: Laminate countertops are available in hundreds of colours and patterns that mimic stone like granite, marble and slate. PF Custom Countertops have more than 250 stock colours available for you to choose from. They can help match your colour and style based on your decor needs. You can purchase laminate countertops with multiple finishes, including matte, glossy, or textured finishes. They are installed quickly and are less expensive than traditional stone countertop options. 

Cons: Laminate countertops can’t be repaired if their surface is scratched, so you’ll have to go easy on your countertops. You should also avoid placing hot items directly on the surface as they can succumb to heat damage quickly. They also have a shorter lifespan than traditional stone or solid options and don’t add as much value. 

Solid Surfaces

Pros: A great alternative to stone, solid surface countertops bring style and durability in a low-maintenance, stain-resistant surface. Featuring anti-bacterial qualities, resistant to stains, heat, and mould. They use a blend of natural minerals and high-performance acrylics as well are eco-conscious – with some brands using up to 15% recycled content.

With several brands to choose from, including Corian, Formica and Wilsonart, you can select from over 100 colours.

Cons: Cutting on the surface can damage the material, so a cutting board should always be used. While resistant to heat, excessive heat can discolour or crack the material, trivets or pads are always recommended. But keep in mind, most damage can be repaired. 

QUARTZ VS. GRANITE: WHICH ONE IS BEST FOR YOUR KITCHEN COUNTERTOP?

Remodelling your kitchen is exciting, but also presents you with a variety of difficult choices. After all, the choice you make is one you will have to live with for quite some time. One choice that homeowners find very challenging is that of selecting the right material for kitchen countertops. The two choices that often compete very closely are quartz and granite.

DECIDING BETWEEN QUARTZ AND GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

You know both countertop materials are attractive, and you may have even found colours and styles you like that suit the overall design of your kitchen, but you still need to decide between the two. Granite is quarried directly from the earth in a large single chunk. It is a natural stone that can be cut into slabs later. Quartz, on the other hand, is crushed and mixed with resin at the ratio of 93 percent quartz to seven percent resin. It is then manufactured to create a variety of colours and patterns.

To compare these two stone surfaces adequately, you need to consider the following:

Stain Resistance - Quartz is one of the only stone surfaces that is stain resistant and does not require sealing to be resistant. It repels wine, oil, coffee and even makeup spills with ease. Granite, on the other hand, is porous and can stain, especially if it is not sealed properly and regularly according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Safety - Your kitchen countertops will obviously be exposed to food and other consumables on a daily basis. Quartz is non-porous, which means it is easier to keep clean and less resistant to bacteria. Granite can absorb food-borne pathogens and the small fissures and spaces can easily harbour bacteria.

Aesthetics - Both countertop types are attractive and it is personal preference as to which looks better in your kitchen. Engineered stones can sometimes have more consistent patterns, while with granite the material is formed naturally and may show more variations in the surface.

Cost - Every home improvement project has a budget. Granite has become more affordable over the past few years and the prices are remaining consistent. Quartz prices can vary, costing more than granite at times or less. When it comes to the overall care costs, quartz will ultimately cost less than granite in the long run.

The best way to decide which countertop surface is right for your kitchen is to visit a showroom and see the varieties and colours in person for yourself. PF Custom Countertops invites you to see our showroom and see our quartz and granite countertops for Sherwood Park, St. Alberta and Edmonton residents in person.

Call us toll-free at 888-484-0831 or contact us online to learn more about our granite and quartz countertops in Edmonton or to request a quote.

MAINTAINING A LAMINATE COUNTERTOP

The laminate countertop options in Edmonton are diverse and come in a variety of colours and styles. These days, these non-stone surfaces can resemble real stone and can be extremely durable; only as long as they are properly cared for. It is important to know how to clean, maintain and even remove stains so that you can have the look of high-end countertops without the cost.

HOW TO CLEAN A LAMINATE COUNTERTOP

Your countertops should be cleaned daily using a soft-material cloth. This helps remove dust and dirt and protects the finish. Avoid using harsh bleach cleansers or scouring agents as these can remove the shiny finish of the laminate. Instead, stick to an all-purpose cleaner and degreasing agent.

While not prone to staining, in the event that you do find that some staining occurs on your laminate countertop surface, the process for removing the stain is quite simple. For heavy stains, you can use a baking soda paste made from three parts baking soda and one part water. Spread the paste evenly over the stain and allow it to sit for at least five minutes. Then, wipe it away gently without scrubbing.

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING A LAMINATE SURFACE

Most homeowners assume that laminate does not last as long as other real stone countertops, but often this limited lifespan is due to poor maintenance. To keep your laminate countertops looking beautiful, follow these easy tips:

Avoid dropping heavy items onto the surface. While laminate is durable, heavy objects can easily crack or damage the surface.

Never use a cutting blade on the countertop surface as this can chip or scour the surface.

When cleaning, avoid using heavy amounts of water on your countertops. While they are sealed, exposure to excess water can allow it to seep under the seams and create a bulging or deformed surface.

Harsh chemicals should never be used on laminate, especially those containing lye or acidic elements.

While heat-resistant, a laminate counter can become scorched or burned. Never place hot objects directly onto the surface of your counter; instead, use a hotplate or pad.

When cleaning, you can use a soft short-bristled brush to loosen dirt or stains, but never use a scouring pad or steel wool to clean the counter.

PF Custom Countertops carries the largest selection of laminate countertops in Edmonton. Come to our showroom and see our extensive selection of colours, style and finishes that mimic real stone, but made from affordable, beautiful laminate. We carry Formica®, Wilsonart® and all of the major laminate brands in our lineup.

Call us toll-free at 888-484-0831 or contact us online to learn more about our laminate countertop products and all the options available for your kitchen.