QUARTZ vs GRANITE | How To Choose A Countertop in 2023

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Choosing a countertop is a big deal! Do you choose quartz or granite? What about laminate? This video will give some insight on each of these products. Hopefully helping you make the right countertop choice for your kitchen.
Comment below if you have any countertop questions. I would love to help.
Check out my latest video where I test quartz - • I HAMMERED QUARTZ COUN...
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[@MTKDofficial]

I have a new video where I test quartz to see if it is scratch, smash and heat resistant. Check it out - kzbin.info/www/bejne/emSzdqZ7jdKnd6c

[@PrettyGoodLookin]

Granite you can put Hot Pots on...it's stone...it's durable enough. Kitchens are for cooking....cooking requires Heat. Quartz is good for bathrooms.

[@PrettyGoodLookin]

If Granite gets a stain....just hone it down and reseal it. Life is imperfect.

[@gotmullets]

Hello Mark! Love your very informative video! I see your kitchen in the background. It looks beautiful. Your home looks beautiful. Sort of similar to my home in some sense. LOL. I guess we have great taste! =) .. I was wondering roughly how much ...again ROUGHLY.. would you happen to know approximately or respectively how much a kitchen the size of yours costs to get quarts or granite?? I know it can vary but I would just like to get an idea of the overall price. I have laminate currently. I want solid. I am thinking moving to quarts and have for a long time.

[@lesliejackson149]

Hello again Mark and again, great video! Just an FYI, North Americans can happily get excellent quality granite from Brazil... so no need to ship from half way around the world (you mentioned the $$$ for this), just from the bottom half (😂).

[@EkebaInternational]

Sir, you are a very believable and impressive presenter. I love your tone, the absence of exaggeration, and the wealth and depth of your knowledge! Absolutely fantastic! Thank you!!!

[@MTKDofficial]

Thank you so much for watching and the encouraging response.

[@donnawilliams7683]

We have white laminate in our kitchen and it's beautiful, and still looks brand new after 32 years. White is timeless and laminate is very durable.

[@Steph-dz9jb]

I’m a designer for many years. I love my laminate tops. They don’t damage my knives, I don’t worry about hot pots or pans , and it actually releases stains like wine or strawberry/raspberry. No one wants laminate but it’s a fabulous option.

[@jaxandmore440]

Thank you for talking honestly about the pros and cons of all 3 countertop types. Laminate is my go-to countertop choice. It gives me a lot more design flexibility since there are far more color and pattern choices compared to granite and quartz. From solid colors to wood styles to stone styles. You even get a choice of the type of surface finish and edge profile. It's also considerably more affordable at 2-3 times less expensive. For typical everyday use, they are perfectly durable. Use a cutting board. Use a potholder under hot pots. Problems solved. As for water intrusion, the fewer seams it has, the better off you are. If your countertop dimensions fit within the laminate sheet dimensions, your fabricator can give you a seamless top. No 45-degree mitered corner cut. It helps elevate the look and eliminate water intrusion issues in the corner of your kitchen.

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks for the comment. You are right about the almost endless variety of options with laminate. That’s one of the reasons I love it too.

[@ablueslenz]

I’m putting laminate in the new condo I’m purchasing because I like to change up my style every few years or so. Quartz is beautiful, but I really find most granite to be too “busy” for my aesthetic; both are a serious investment for someone averse to commitment.😉 I installed quality laminate in my previous home and never had any issue with its performance. Further, no one ever came over for dinner and said, “I’m not eating at your house because you have laminate countertops.” 😏My money goes toward quality major appliances.

[@MTKDofficial]

Smart move! Especially if you like to change it out now and then. I'm all for laminate.

[@kempkennedy3542]

For your situation it definitely sounds like laminate is by far the best option. I am personally not a fan of any laminate (even the high end ones) as I do see them as looking less refined and not always, but often times cheap. (Disclaimer: I have laminate in my kitchen at this time). I 'personally' greatly prefer a quartz or non-dated granite when I see a kitchen with them installed. But yeah, you cook and I come. And at the end of the day, really not concerned with it all. Just pointing out that "I notice at glance" when I see a nice stone or quartz in a kitchen. Kudos to you for the energy to 'change things out' every few years though... I'm waaayyy too lazy!!!

[@ablueslenz]

@@kempkennedy3542 Thanks for your comment! To your points, I have always been someone who likes to change up things in a few years to help settle my mind. I think I have a problem with stagnation or something. 😉 For example, my furniture is neutral beige, but I accessorize with colorful throw pillows to bring in texture and color every season. I don’t buy new pillows every season; I just change out the covers that I absolutely love. With my kitchen, I have LG appliance that are pretty solid to me, but I change out my countertops every 2-3 years because I get tired of the look. Imagine changing out quartz countertops every 2-3 years.😱 The other part of it is that I love to travel, so the money I would spend on quartz countertops can fully fund a short trip to the Caribbean or help pay for one to South America.☺️ Have a good day, night, afternoon, or evening wherever you are in this chaotic but amazing world.☺️

[@kempkennedy3542]

@@ablueslenz Fair points to everything you replied with. And I love travel too!! Though we do differ on interior design ideology I can honestly say that it is awesome that you are doing what works best for you! Happy travels (at least when all this Covid mess ends) :)

[@PrettyGoodLookin]

It depends on what neighborhood you live in also.

[@civitahochreiter7549]

Thank you for this video. It's refreshing to hear a designer say that it's ok to get laminate countertops. You must have a highly satisfied customer base. 🙂 We're all different, we all have different needs/wants. Thanks for recognizing that and not trying to change anyone's mind. Keep up the great work!! 👍👏

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks so much. There’s enough judgment in the world, we don’t need to be judged on our countertop choice. Lol.

[@buddyfoullois1007]

Quartz is the Cubic Zirconium to Natural Stone.

[@pattypierce8189]

Cool thanks

[@polyglot6542]

Great info! Thanks

[@maggiebillel8956]

I have granite, quartz and marble. Of the three quartz is my least favorite. The beauty of marble and granite being natural is so much more unique.

[@davidfortygin5989]

You probably got yourself a crappy quartz. Get yourself a Cambria :)

[@pavel514mtlQC]

Big baller!

[@Tooommmek]

@@davidfortygin5989 cambria it’s not the best stuff they still break specially in the kitchen 90 degree corners, have some of them it’s much safer if the fabricator do join at this area

[@HeartlandPatriotWarrior]

As a kitchen designer I would NEVER put marble in kitchen! It’s much too soft & porous. His info is right on target!

[@minkatalbot7517]

Perfectly said.

[@ruthn9381]

Much appreciated information.

[@cynthiagrayson7944]

Thanks a bunch. Highly informative.

[@TheSimArchitect]

Thank you!!

[@aga3976]

I love you recommendations and down to earth approach.

[@Bulldog75stp]

My wife and I close on a new house in a few weeks. It has Quartz countertops throughout. I'm so excited. lol

[@MTKDofficial]

I’m so jealous. Lol. Can’t go wrong with quartz.

[@ianhillman4007]

Thanks for the honest information Mark. Much appreciated. 🍻

[@LesterBolton]

Really enjoyed the video. It has given us a lot to think about.

[@lindawaldon9264]

Terrific non bias , informative video, I now have lots to think about 😜

[@judes1948]

Very clear, very informative. Thank you!

[@MediaFuser]

This is an Excellent Video. Mark is a BOSS!

[@TwentyMinuteGuitarPlayer]

Great video! Awesome tips! Thanks so much!!

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks Rob! Appreciate the comments!

[@marilynbara6330]

Thank you! Awesome video, so helpful. Love the objective delivery of the facts and information. So Helpful!

[@MTKDofficial]

Hi Marilyn! Thanks for the comment. Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@anick6265]

Thank you very good information for me!💕

[@alexisnicole3965]

You got me at QUARTZ!...Thank you!

[@saradiaz6179]

Excellent video explaining the differences between these three countertops. Thanks.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey Sara! You're welcome. Thanks for leaving a comment. Glad you liked the video.

[@coxo9994]

So helpful

[@grzejnikiozdobne5940]

Super projekt 👍👍👍miło się ogląda 🙂

[@MrEMTPMD]

Let me first say how impressed I am with your content with these counter surfaces and how you give equally valued info to each and you don’t steer anyone away from or frown on a laminate versus a solid surface. It’s all it what one can afford and like you said, what you like.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! Thanks for watching and commenting. Yeah, if someone likes and wants laminate, then go for it. For anything in the kitchen for that matter.

[@cmcguire5810]

Especially helpful video! Thank you. I'm glad I watched it.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! I’m glad it helped. Thanks for letting me know.

[@tash-mariegrant652]

Why?

[@mermaidswhimsy8601]

Amazing information. I really felt like I learned so much! Thank you Mark!

[@MTKDofficial]

I really appreciate your comment. Thanks so much for watching. Glad you found the video helpful!

[@natashalittlelifejourney]

Hi! Very happy to see your video please recommend quartz countertops which levels can choose to upgrade? Thank you

[@aidaarana2057]

Thank you so much for sharing such important and so needed information on countertops. It can be overwhelming due to the cost and decision making.

[@MTKDofficial]

Definitely a lot to consider. Appreciate the comment.

[@juanpiraquive60]

Very valuable video, thanks y choose quartz.

[@gilbertocolon1544]

thank you you just make my day

[@cju4300]

Nice. I like your style of presentation, clear, concise... learning a lot. Subscribed

[@MTKDofficial]

Hi! Thanks so much! I really appreciate it.

[@joanburbank3755]

Very helpful, thank you!!

[@MTKDofficial]

Hi Joan! Thanks for leaving a comment! Are you planning a new countertop?

[@donnawojdacz6969]

Another excellent video!

[@anthonyfussell6221]

I am British and have sold a number of high end apartmemts in UK , the kitchens all of which had aga installed and granite tops . Our market at the top end would not accept anything else . Thank you for your trends . I think shelves look great . As you say it is up to you . To me people are looking for individuality and style and laminate has neither and never will have , so if you want style you pay for granite. Thank you for your clear and intetesting presentation which is a credit to you .

[@MTKDofficial]

Hi Anthony! Thank you for the kind words and input. It is appreciated.

[@kempkennedy3542]

Is quartz not rising in popularity there in the 'upper middle-class' market? It is now about toe-to-toe with granite in the states, with many opting for quartz now, due to the much wider variety of styles and coloring. Interesting to hear nonetheless.

[@whodat9198]

Lol there are many quartz more expensive than most granite.

[@lesliejackson149]

​@kempkennedy3542 I think it's a style choice kennedy. Quartz can be made to a more uniform appearance and thus, blend in more easily. Granite though, especially the stunning pieces, make a statement all their own and command center stage. This means backsplash tiles must chosen carefully so as to not distract, but compliment, the granite countertop. Cabinets and hardware have to also compliment, not compete, with the center stage granite. This takes more discerning an eye to achieve but can present a stunning production. Perhaps the "safe" uniformity of quartz with "standard" cabinets and "functional" hardware is all that is required by "most" kitchens. To each their own. Then, there's the kitchen's that make one slightly gasp... taking in every little intricate and complimentary aspect. Now that's style (that doesn't come with a simple swipe left or right lol). Art Gallery? Eye candy? Las Vegas strip? Standing the test of time and the resale of home will tell all.

[@jazzy2059]

Great information 👍🏼

[@LuxuriousQuartzSlabs]

very good introduce

[@LifelineStreaming]

Love the honesty. Surprised about the laminate recommendation

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks Mike. Yeah. Laminate isn’t so bad. It’s pretty tough. Ask Jed about the time one flew out of the back of the truck on us. Haha

[@aanon5716]

use a special quartz/granite cleaner on it ONLY! comet, or brillo, even windex will strip the sealant off. my girlfriend on a strict budget got a slate color laminate counter & its lovely. with white cabinets & some bright copper pots on the wall above & under cabinet lighting, it looks like real slate! i had granite in my first home but chose quartz in my new home because i wanted white with a touch of grey veining & granite didnt have it. im happy with the quartz. its beautiful, shiny & brightens up the kitchen.

[@capnjan9835]

Lovely. But does she COOK? Sheesh.

[@juliahelland6488]

Thanks for sharing your tips ❣

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! You are welcome!!

[@janetleeadams7287]

I designed two kitchens in older houses that we had bought. I had beautiful cabinets, and I used laminate in both kitchens. For one I had a beautiful light blue tweed design and one that looked like fallen, autumn leaves. But my favorite feature in both kitchens was the pull-out bread board. This pull-out doubled my counter space and was perfect at sandwich making time. It is an old fashioned feature, and it is great.

[@MTKDofficial]

Those were a really cool option. Not something I've done in a while but definitely very functional. Thanks for watching!

[@eddieesquivel1685]

Exact tutorial I needed to listen to in order to replace my laminate kitchen counters. Thank you!

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks Eddie. Glad the video was helpful!

[@dragoncantor]

Very helpful. Thank you.

[@MTKDofficial]

You're welcome! Thanks for leaving a comment!

[@citticat2]

When I dropped a heavy pot on the end of the sink granite counter I chip a piece off and it was repaired good as new. My counter is 13 yrs old, use the stone everyday, and still looks new. Most people are choosing quarts so now all the kitchens basically look the same; whereas, granite has more of a unique look on it's own.

[@MTKDofficial]

Well, I think people are choosing quartz that looks the same. You can get quartz that looks like anything. Some of it is quite stunning. How was it repaired? Just curious? Did they drill it and put a rod in?

[@citticat2]

@@MTKDofficial No, it was a chip. They filled the broken space with granite material. I can't even tell. If I was starting new I would probably pick quartz too but the granite is too beautiful to replace.

[@corieamundson7270]

@@MTKDofficial as a stone fabricator I disagree. The natural stones have far more depth and character than quartz. However Cambria does do a decent job of making some granite-like patterns. To the layman a quartz piece might mimic a natural stone, but when you see the natural beauty of a nice piece of stone (i.e. superwhite quartzite, fantasy brown dolomite, titanium Granite) thee is no possibility of recreating that with modern technology to be equally as awesome.

[@MTKDofficial]

@@corieamundson7270 Hey Corie. Thanks for the input. I do agree it is pretty difficult to match the beauty of natural stone. I don't mean to imply that they are exact matches. They are definitely copies with some better than others.

[@kempkennedy3542]

@@corieamundson7270 I (of course) agree that natural stone has a greater 'depth and character' than quartz. Quartz excels in having so many more colors and variations to more closely match an exact taste though. In addition, there are many overused styles of granite that have a now 'dated' look in homes. So as a future consumer making a decision I am still in debate. As for your mention of quartzite... I fell in love with that natural stone! We broke up after I saw the price though :)

[@barbaramelady110]

Great video ,Thank YOU so much !!! xoxo

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey thanks! Appreciate the comment.

[@dbello4279]

Thank you sooooo much for your valuable information and advice!! I’m thinking of upgrading my kitchen with minor changes until I could do my major changes (expanding it)! Going laminate is perfect for now since I hope to do my major change in a few years and then buy the more expensive countertops!!! Great video!!!!!

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! Thanks so much for the comment, I am glad the video helped. I think laminate is a great choice!

[@Freegrace22]

Very informative! It's the Quartz for me.

[@verokhan6287]

Thanks for this video. I'm new to the stone fabrication industry, working in a showroom and this was the most informative series of facts and info I have heard, thats not just from a quartz supplier sales rep. I feel more educated and ready to better inform and advise customers at my job.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! Thanks for the comment. I am glad the videos are helpful!!

[@hallucinogen22]

I have no idea why this intrigued me enough to watch it since I have no particular use for the information (at 3am no less) but honestly, I’m glad I did. My future kitchen will be better designed for it! Thank you 😊

[@MTKDofficial]

Ha. Well thank you for watching! Appreciated.

[@nassdolla1389]

Thank u am tryna decide on if I should spend the money on my kitchen counter top and your video help me with my decision so I'm go with the granite 💯💯💯💯👋🏿👋🏿💪🏿💪🏿✌🏿

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! Cool, thanks for watching and letting me know.

[@ZCM-]

Very helpful and highly useful information, well presented, too! Thank you!

[@King-2077]

Quartz all the way for me, I dont want extra maintenance especially in a kitchen. I have a marble top in my bathroom vanity, and yes it’s gorgeous but a nightmare to maintain.

[@King-2077]

@@colbyrulesmydoggie4839 i have my quartz for years now. Even the one on the island top where we always eat all sorts of food, we do hotpot there too. It also has a griddle built into it. The quartz looks brand new, no stain and no chip And guess what? Our quartz is pure white lol. So you’re wrong.

[@kinnonmoss]

Mark, Thanks for this down-to-earth video post. At this writing, I have my kitchen remodel nearly complete. In recent weeks as far as countertops go, my wife and I checked out the three options you reviewed in this post. I must say, we could afford the high end offerings, but decided to go with a laminate countertop. As in like you mentioned there are so many options in textures, colors, patterns, etc. In our home (a 70 year old Cape Cod style cottage) we decided to stay with (dare I say it) a wood-look laminate countertop by Wilson Art. Our house has stained wood work through out, and we just wanted to keep the updated kitchen in blend with the rest of the house. We considered butcher block, but did not want to worry with the upkeep. The laminate we chose looks similar to the butcher block style, but without the maintenance. These days so many seem to be trending toward neutral, almost clinical "Dynasty" looking kitchens with no color or warmth, and of that, to each their own. My wife and I are dated people who still like dated looking (though new) stuff, and make no apologies about it. And like you mentioned regarding laminate, if down the road we get tired of looking at it, we can change it up without the parting of the Red Sea so to speak. Peace, and more power to you in your field of work & design. 👍

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks so much for the comment. I really love some of the wood look laminates. Great choice!

[@sarahgreen2411]

I've never heard anyone recommend laminate haha that's awesome! now that I'm thinking about it I didn't mind the laminate in my first apartment. We don't all need to be unique and one of a kind some of us want practical, I like it.

[@MTKDofficial]

Haha. thanks Sarah. laminate gets a bad rap, but there are some beautiful laminate countertops out there.

[@brendadoyle643]

Great info.!!

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey Brenda! Thanks for the comment.

[@knittingnana2939]

I have granite and I love it.

[@ladyajohnrose3274]

Thank you I just change my mind .

[@dianereiser6417]

I have two of the designs he is showing in this video, must be popular.

[@jamesleveille-bonner4536]

Thank you for an unprejudiced comparison of surface materials.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey James! Thanks for the view and the comment. Much appreciated.

[@justintombar5454]

Very informative. What would you recommend for an outdoor kitchen in the California area? For an uncovered area and for a fireplace table. What are your thoughts on soapstone?

[@MTKDofficial]

Well, the Dekton from the other video is great for outside. Porcelain is an option as well. But, soapstone is a great natural option. Such a great stone. In my area, however, it's pretty much non existent. Unfortunately.

[@BonaFideWildLife]

Thanks for the info and starting the discussion! After reading the comments, I'm going to go with granite. Quartz seems to chip and stain more than granite and is harder to repair - which begs to be replaced. I resent planned obsolescence because it's literally so wasteful. I want something that will last and plays nice with the right to repair movement. I'll happily seal granite so it won't end up in the landfill.

[@MTKDofficial]

Granite is a great choice. I have some other videos where I perform some test and granite is a strong contender for #1

[@vaderladyl]

I totally agree. I have granite and plan to keep it at least 30 years or more.

[@BluegrassStoic]

dude that comment says it all "in all my years of installing counter tops I've only heard of one counter cracking" it's nuts that consumers think about that and "durability" so much. I just got a counter tops and that was like 50% of my decision making process "get quartz because its more durable"... I mean I love the quartz Im just saying your advice is so nice and applicable.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! Thanks so much.

[@jasonwong5075]

Thanks so much for all these videos! I have watched many...!! Question - what are your thoughts on glossy vs matte quartz and staining? I have had a few folks recommend against matte because it is more susceptible to staining. Thoughts? (apologies if this is covered somewhere in an existing video)

[@MTKDofficial]

Overall I’m more of a glossy fan. I think it is better at resisting stains. Though both finishes are non porous. I think polished quartz would have less surface area on the microscopic level and therefor less opportunity for a stain to take hold. This is my opinion.

[@comfunc]

Great review thanks! Could you please also compare with Corian / Himacs / Samsung Staron type surfaces that can be formed into any shape so can make one continuous join-free worktop and splashback (or backsplash, as you guys say, LOL)

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey thanks. I haven't said much about acrylic surfaces yet. I used to sell both Corian and Staron. Maybe in the future I'll do that!

[@MsBaztastic]

I have NEVER had to seal my granite countertops in over 10 years and they shine! Many experts say you can seal them every 5-7 years. I purchased precut granite countertops to save money, stuck them on an A frame for transport and cut them with a grinder. Although I have seams, it's fine for me. I also used black galaxy tiles for my washer/dryer push-in. You can be fancy and cheap. I don't trust anything with resin. Why should I pay the same for fake stone as the real stuff? We really do get fooled by corner cutting builders.

[@auzblake69]

I install granite countertops everyday. Quartz ive taken a hammer to break it( it took alot of hits) to break.the darker the granite the stronger. The fiberglass on the back means its weaker.

[@joypolk3093]

Good information, would like to hear your opinion on soap stone and wood counter tops.

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks Joy! I like the look of most wood countertops, but not a fan as an overall countertop for the entire kitchen. Now, I have a viewer who has his wooden top covered in acrylic and he loves it. This is an option for sure that may work. Wood is very porous and so for this reason it's a no for me. Soapstone is gorgeous but has never been the stone of choice in the industry. I would put this in with the marbles as it is very porous and needs to be treated regularly. However, I've also heard from viewers with soapstone who absolutely love it. I think it's important to weigh out all the options and find the one that fits your lifestyle the best. That will be the best countertop!

[@thatc10]

@@MTKDofficial soapstone is literally stain proof. It is the LEAST porus of all natural stones.

[@tomvega1666]

Mark , I am trying to get more info on a new product they talk about out there called Mineral stone, i.e., Dekton, Lapitec is the any info you can provide? I have checked many videos on KZbin concerning countertop information and your channel is by far the best and most informative I've ever come across, Thanks for your professionalism and even handed explanations of the different products available.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey Tom. I have a video about Dekton. It's been around for a number of years. It is very resistant to stains and scratching and will handle any amount of heat as there are no resins. Its only drawback may be in impact resistance. Check it out here kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnWUgGSYmqiKgtE

[@pamelaflynn1129]

I had laminate in previous homes. When I redid my current kitchen I chose solid surface, Silestone, and I really enjoy it. I think quartz would be my stone choice. Thanks for the information.

[@thatc10]

silestone is quartz

[@floridanativelh568]

Silestone is just a quartz brand.

[@trinaroe5132]

Refreshing to see a designer that isn’t pushing the most expensive countertop options! I have laminate and plan to use it again.

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks Trina!

[@gracewoodward3846]

Hi Mark - So glad that I found your video today. You are a great communicator & educator. I learned a lot -thank you! My realtor told me that most of his clients are looking for quartz. We have granite which we have really enjoyed. I look at it thinking that we should replace it with quartz before putting our home on the market but we have decided to let the buyer decide that for themselves. Is granite recycled? It would be such a waste to just end up in a landfill!. Thanks again!!

[@MTKDofficial]

Hi Grace. Thanks for the kind words! I'd say you are right to leave the granite. I doubt you get it back in the sale in terms of cost. There is no reason why you couldn't recycle granite. It can easily be cut and resold, even into smaller pieces for islands and vanities.

[@gracewoodward3846]

@@MTKDofficial Thank you Mark for responding to my comments/questions. We will for sure keep our granite & hopefully when our house is on the market there will a buyer who will enjoy it as much as we have. Thanks again!!

[@marthahoushar5428]

@@MTKDofficial Great idea to check for “end pieces’ - left overs, if you will, from other jobs if you need a small piece for, say, a vanity top in a powder room. I did that, got exactly what I wanted for a fraction of the cost of going for a slab, most of which would have gone to waste. Just check at your slab yard or with installers.

[@bijoubijou7500]

This was extremely helpful. I am hoping to replace my countertops and have been toying around with the best options that would meet the desired aesthetic and functionality. I was considering a granite countertop before viewing this video, but I will expand my search to include quartz, as the yearly sealing seems like it could be costly.

[@MTKDofficial]

I'm going to be reviewing a product called Dekton. you should check it out as well.

[@bijoubijou7500]

@@MTKDofficial Anxiously awaiting the review. Thank you!

[@mrkroeger]

Sealant cost next to nothing.

[@bijoubijou7500]

@@mrkroeger Thank you so much. The cost and concern about my ability to properly maintain is driving the decision. I appreciate the tip.

[@kempkennedy3542]

@@bijoubijou7500 I agree that sealant is inexpensive and super easy to apply. But yeah, I get 'lazy spells' and could see me neglecting my upkeep for years! I would love to hear more about 'quartzite' (natural stone, stupid expensive), just to have more info on how it would stack up to the cheaper but still high end quartz and granite.

[@mktthatsme2009]

Loved the video! I'm considering getting a black, white, organge/gold counter...I have old Spanish tiles and my cabinets are pine with black metal hardware. I'm getting mixed responses from friends on how the counters will look. I think they will look amazing. Any feedback on paring granite with Spanish floor tiles?

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey thanks! Without seeing it, it's a little hard to comment. However, it sounds like you know what you want, and that is the most important thing. If you love it, go for it!

[@goodmorningbeautifulhumans1638]

I will only have quartz., absolutely love it.

[@MTKDofficial]

Yeah, it is definitely the leading choice for countertop.

[@grantnoroyan4083]

good info here great job............sounds like quartz is the best regarding durability

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks! Overall, I think it's the way to go for durability. However, I hear lots of people comment on how well granite holds up, among others. If I were purchasing stone, it would be quartz.

[@cynthiacole6140]

I have had both. My current home has granite and I can't wait until I can get rid of it and switch to quartz again.

[@653j521]

Cynthia Cole Please explain why.

[@cynthiacole6140]

@@653j521 I feel the quartz is much less likely to get stains.

[@kempkennedy3542]

@@cynthiacole6140 I thought quartz was more likely to stain vs. (keyword: sealed) granite. I'll have to look more into it. I love quartz for its design options. Don't love it for it's seams and lower heat resistance (though the latter is improving year over year in quartz). Still torn here, but glad you have your roadmap.

[@Xmanz-ud7ff]

Thanks for the informative video. I think quartz is at its best when its patterns imitate marble rather than granite. I’ve seen quartz countertops that are indistinguishable from the comparable marble and the durability of quartz versus marble in a kitchen makes it a superior choice in my view.

[@kempkennedy3542]

Love quartz for its versatility in design! Don't love the heavy seam lines. Still debating between it and a 'modern' looking granite. Hmmm...

[@vecamiolo]

Go with quartzite. Hardness like granite, look of marble. We have it and I love looking at it. It has depth you can’t get with quartz. I can’t understand why quartzite isn’t mentioned in this video.

[@djdietz2922]

Kitchen Remodeler of 30+ years here - GREAT video! I will add 2 things though - 1) There are really good 15 YEAR Sealers out there now, so it does not have to be a 'seal it every year' thing. 2) You forgot the whole group of Solid Surface tops like Corian, Staron, Hi-Macs, and the like! We do the majority of our tops (roughly 60-90 per year) in Stone, but still do a fair amount in Solid Surface and Laminate too. I have Solid Suraface in my current home as it was going to be a 'long term flip' and the price point in our market falls halfway between laminate and granite. It can also be easily 'renewed' by buffing out scratches.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! Thanks for the comment! I've yet to really dive into solid surface on the channel. I used to deal with both Corian and Staron. It's popularity dwindled quite a bit over the years, but it definitely has it's strong points. Have you ever had yours re-finished? I had it done for a client once. It was quite the job, but turned out really well.

[@f.demascio1857]

I had a client choose to go with Soapstone, and ordered from one of the last quarries in Virginia. He also chose to have floor tiles of 4 different sizes made at the same quarry, they took longer, but looked great in the end. Anyhoo... The counters got installed and sealed, then allowed to cure for 24 hours. After the dry/cure was done, the GC covered the tops with resin paper and it was announced that NO ONE was allowed to place ANYTHING on the counter tops, so we did not. On the last day of trim out, we removed paper from the tops and in installed the faucet. When the client came home, he removed all of the paper and it was discovered that the Soapstone had a quartz vein that had separated from the Soapstone, and created a large fissure. Client lost it and started throwing blame around. Fortunately, the GC had a camera in the job site that viewed the area in particular and allowed the client access to the footage to sleuth it out for himself. Needless to say, he did review the footage and found that only his family members had placed anything on the covered tops. Finally, they contacted the installers and they came out, explained that this was to be expected due to the stone acclimatizing to the indoor environment. They used an epoxy to reattach the quartz pieces in the fissure and filled in the voids. It was almost imperceptible. But the client still regrets going with Soapstone. It cost an arm & a leg but he keeps talking about replacing it. He's still a client of mine, but refuses to use the GC ever again. Mostly for other reasons (walls not plumb or square, half assed detail work, etc.) I no longer do work with him either, unless a mutual client uses him.

[@carolcarol575]

Thanks

[@AriaDiamond]

I have my heart set on granite because I love the beauty of natural stone. Thanks for the tip about looking at the back of the samples. I had read that some granite is more durable than others but it's hard to find specific information on which ones to choose.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey. You're welcome. When in doubt, try and call the fabricator directly. Anything with a lot of veins is generally a little weaker.

[@vecamiolo]

Look at quartzite.

[@SinnerSince1962]

Wow, what an excellent explanation full of insight and advice. I have a small galley kitchen with 9' 0" and a 0' 15" countertops. I was quoted $1965 including installation for a quartz top. That includes a 4" backsplash. Now I know why people complain about their kitchen remodels costing upwards of $50K. That seems insane to me, but my meager budget including appliances is $12K.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey! Thanks for watching. Agreed, it doesn't take long for things to add up. Hope it goes well!

[@nataliaromanova9556]

It all depends where you want to put your money. I did an update on my kitchen for about 2 k. I used resin for the counters after rebulding with MDF for a marble look that was good enough to fool the inspector when I sold it. Painted cabinets since they were in good shape and didn't want the cost of replacing them outright. Also put new trim around the top. Put in a new GIANT sink and nice faucet. For the backsplash I mixed subway and expensive glass tiles for a nice look that extended to the counter, so no extra backspalsh line. I did the work myself. Including tool purchase I spent about 2K and it looked like an entirely different kitchen.

[@tywebbgolfenthusiast8950]

Over the years I installed an acre of laminate in kitchens I remodeled. Cheap, easy to work with woodworking tools, looks okay. We remodeled our own kitchen a couple years ago and put in Hanstone quartz. Yes pricy, but it’s beautiful and there’s no mistaking it for laminate. Also, we have a 12” overhang on our island which didn’t need support. It would have needed brackets if granite.

[@MTKDofficial]

Nice. Hanstone is great. I’m testing it next actually. I have two samples I’m aiming to destroy to see just how good it is.

[@tywebbgolfenthusiast8950]

@@MTKDofficial you got yourself a subscriber!

[@MTKDofficial]

@@tywebbgolfenthusiast8950 Thank you! I appreciate you letting me know!

[@corieamundson7270]

Just remember NO HOT POTS OR PANS on your quartz (it will crack). Also the sealer we use for granite lasts up to 10 years (not everyone uses the ultra premium sealer). Resealing an average sixed kitchen takes 15 minutes and can be done by a child. Very simple. Choose quartz or granite as equals, pick something that you love.

[@MTKDofficial]

I'm planning a video where I put these materials to the ultimate test. So we can really see how they stand up. Just finished filming one on a mystery surface that comes out tomorrow.

[@kathiegifford5112]

@@MTKDofficial This may be a stupid question but can you use the granite ultra premium sealer lasting 10 years on manufactured quartz to prevent stains and cracks?

[@thatc10]

@@kathiegifford5112 pretty much ANY chemical (such as sealer) will void the manufacturers warranty on most quartzes.

[@oseasviewer7108]

I hope that child is wearing a breathing mask, gloves, eye protection and overalls, with drop sheets on the floor and all the windows open, plus an app at the ready on their phone to order in food because you'll need at least 48 hours for that 'hopefully--long- term-durable' surface to cure properly.

[@corieamundson7270]

@@kathiegifford5112 no, you cannot put sealer on quartz because it voids the warranty. If you don't care about warranty, do as you please. However, because quartz is virtually poreless, it won't do much good. Sealer does not help with cracks...it should be nearly impossible to crack under normal usage anyways. Having staining issues? Try Barkeepers Friend. You can also use Mr Clean magic erasers but they're a little gritty and will take off your top finish over time.

[@karenmuirhead5357]

I like the quietness of laminate, especially in an open plan kitchen. A plate put on quartz or granite makes a sharp noise.. however laminate seems to absorb the sound. I do love the look of the other surfaces.

[@MTKDofficial]

There doesn't seem to be the perfect surface. I appreciate that fact about my laminate as well. It's also warmer than stone, which a lot of people find a negative about quartz or granite.

[@oseasviewer7108]

And if you inadvertently drop a bone china cup on a laminate top it tends to bounce not shatter as it would on a hard unforgiving surface.

[@tanp2760]

Hi I am new to this video, was going to change my kitchen. After listening to your introduction of Quartz, would like asked if Quartz wood pattern with pastel dull green cabinet goes well?

[@MTKDofficial]

Yes! Wood pattern and green definitely go together.

[@nathansilver9190]

Hey Mark, I just subscribed to your channel. My question is what your thoughts are on concrete and epoxy counter tops? Thanks, great info. When I am done building my kitchen, I will send you pics. I am doing everything myself. I also am a cabinet maker by trade.

[@MTKDofficial]

Hey Nathan. Thanks so much! Yeah definitely send me pics I would love to see it. As far as concrete goes, I love it. Overall I think it’s a great choice. Especially if you can do it yourself. Epoxy I’m not so struck on, although they can look really cool. I just don’t have enough experience with them maybe to really comment.

[@Tooommmek]

I’m granite fabricator for over 25 years and my opinion is very simple for my own kitchen I will go granite not the man made stuff like quartz to me this is similar to corian back days so like titanic on his maiden voyage, yes it’s very popular at this moment and much easier to work with and I like to work with and make a new kitchen but for my own kitchen I’m going 100% natural material, so solid wood or by product like pressboard? That’s my opinion.

[@MTKDofficial]

What is your thought on porcelain slabs?

[@Tooommmek]

@@MTKDofficial extremely fragile on the corners very easy to chip with glass or other heavy objects specially the thin surface with laminated edges.

[@CH-px1fw]

I never thought to ask where the material is coming from. I’ll definitely be asking….but not for cost reasons….

[@marie-helenefluet4884]

Durability for quartz his debatable, I got granite and quartz for my kitchen 6 years ago and the quarts got two chip parts already. My granite still impeccable.

[@pjpororo323]

Thank you Mark for your valuable insights, would you advise stainless steel countertop too?

[@MTKDofficial]

Hi! Thanks for the comment! I have no issue with stainless. It is very sanitary and durable. It is best to work with a very experienced fabricator (obviously). There is a reason it is used in commercial kitchens, and if you are a fan of that industrial style, stainless is a great choice.

[@pjpororo323]

@@MTKDofficial Thank you Mark for your prompt advise, I fully agree on the durability and sanitary reasons, challenge is very costly too. Am wondering if its a good option to have a stainless steel countertop but wooden cabinets. In Asia esp Singapore where I am isn't a common practice.

[@kleewolf434]

Love your video. My question is: My Mom's house that I live in now has a Turquoise color laminate kitchen counter. The house was built in the '50s. I love it and want keep it. i have gone to many websites to purchase more for replacing the old for new, but can not find anything that matches that color. They are either Teal -which is too dark or Tiffany blue which is to light. Any suggestions?

[@MTKDofficial]

I'm assuming you've checked with Arborite and Formica. The original is probably Arborite. You may need to try and go through a dealer. They could have access to colours that are not featured on the website.

[@kleewolf434]

@@MTKDofficial Thank you for your reply. I never heard of Arborite. I went to their website but did not see any laminate for counter tops. I have looked at Formica and WilsonArt website and gone to the several local dealers in Houston. None have what I am looking for. There was one website that had some old "out of stock" WilsonArt that was Turquoise with gold sparkle but the price was way out my of budget. It was at least 200 per cent higher than the usually price. I would love it, but only if I won the Lotto. Thanks again for the info.

[@silverfox-59]

Considering your in the business in most cases it would be more just to make a sale. I was truly impressed with your honesty, very impressed. Not everyone could afford to go with the more expensive. I truly appreciate your honesty.

[@MTKDofficial]

Thanks for the comment Randy. Appreciated!!

[@silverfox-59]

Your very welcome.

[@paulineacosta8409]

I got quartz in white and after many years I still no regrets. Still love it

[@MTKDofficial]

That seems to be the consensus! Thanks for sharing!

[@jamespatrick1548]

I poured Epoxy Resin in the kitchen and two bath and they looked great. I made the bathrooms look like white marble and the kitchen like metallic grey granite. I watched A LOT of How-to videos and practiced on sample boards several times before I did it. Fun to do but not something I would recommend to first time DIY'ers but it is great if you are artistic and willing to work for it.

[@MTKDofficial]

Oh cool! How do you find it stands up to use?

[@jamespatrick1548]

@@MTKDofficial I sold the property but if it scratches you can easily polish it. I will do it again in the house I'm renovating now. Fun project, you should try it.

[@johnjohng668]

@@jamespatrick1548 be careful. That’s a very toxic job and it can cause health issues.

[@jamespatrick1548]

@@johnjohng668 the epoxy I used has no toxic fumes.

[@malekodesouza7255]

We’ve had all three. Laminate is cheap. When we were young and less “affluent” it was a go to. Don’t like the shiny finish of granite and dislike the required yearly sealing. Our latest bath remodel we’ve gone with quartz. Low luster, basically zero maintenance and love the modern clean look. 🤷🏻

[@vernon_4411]

Great information. One more factor to consider when choosing a countertop is the placement of the sink. If the sink is placed under the countertop, the countertop cannot be laminate. This is because the water that splashes up from the sink can seep into the laminate and cause it to warp or delaminate.

[@MTKDofficial]

Actually there is a way to do it with laminate. I didn’t believe it myself until I seen how it was done. It takes someone skilled to do it though.

[@matthayes2220]

I do counter tops for a living and I have for 20 years. videos are funny