Countertops
Granite and stone countertops, backsplashes and walls are one of the most popular materials used in today’s kitchen builds. Granite is a durable choice for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, bar tops, and more because of it’s ability to withstand UV light and heat. Quartz is a favorite among designers because of it’s consistency in pattern and the ability to get bookend looks and matching thicknesses. Quartz countertops, backsplashes and walls are used in both residential and commercial projects.
Tell us what you are looking for and we can get it for you! We love inspiration photos and new ideas. Call us at (772) 222-7434 for an in home or showroom appointment and we can help create your vision. Learn more about the different types of natural stone and quartz below:
Natural Stone
Granite is a naturally formed stone that is quite durable, highly heat-resistant and when properly sealed, it will last for decades. It brings a striking beauty and offers a custom look that cannot be replicated by marble or man-made quartz. Granite is perfect for everyday use because it is heavy and strong, water resistant, wear and tear resistant, durable and versatile as it can be used on countertops, floors, and walls. Granite is able to withstand extremely high temperatures, it is highly scratch resistant, and the maintenance is incredibly simple.
All these characteristics make all types of granite a highly desirable stone for multiple uses in both residential and commercial interior.
Limestone, quartzite, and marble along with granite are all natural stones. They form in nature, only in nature and each piece is unique. They are made of minerals with no outside influence. Because of this, homeowners choose stone to embrace it and enjoy the natural variations of earth in their home.
Natural stone can sometimes be identified by the edges of the slab. Man made quartz will have a square, uniformed edge whereas natural stone cut from the earth will be more jagged and uneven.
An important thing to remember with granite is “What you see is what you get!” If there are spots or variations of colors in the stone, they cannot be removed. Sometimes, depending on the size and layout of your tops, areas can be cut out or skipped by the fabricator but don’t count on it!
Granite
Exotic Granite
Hard Marble
Quartzite
Soapstone
Marble
What is the Difference between Quartz & Granite?
- Quartz is man made, Granite is natural from the Earth.
- Quartz requires no maintenance or sealing.
- Granite is heat and scratch resistant.
- Both can chip and break but Granite can be repaired easier than Quartz.
- Quartz is harder than Granite.
Quartz
Quartz countertops are a man made mixture of natural quartz combined with resin composite, pigments and additives. Manufactured quartz surfaces are mostly quartz but not purely quartz and can be as much as 70-93% quartz sand or aggregate depending on the brand and color. Because of this, man made quartz is not considered a natural stone.
One drawback that you should definitely take note of is that quartz can discolor over time when exposed to direct sunlight. If your counter receives strong UV rays from the sun while another part doesn’t, you may see a color difference over time. Also note that they do not recommend direct heat on your quartz countertops. The resin components could warp under high temperatures.
Surprisingly, as a designer choice, some quartz is very affordable. Of course, just like granite, prices for quartz can range from low to very high as in tens of thousands a slab. But b
Another unique feature of quartz is that because it is man made, there is a large variety of quartz manufacturers offering custom colors, larger slabs, various patterns and some very unique mixtures such as Curava‘s recycled glass or seashell options.
Designer Quartz
Unique Quartz
Bookmatched
Mimic Quartz
Calacatta Quartz
Super Jumbo
How to Shop for Stone
When shopping for granite, be sure to familiarize yourself with the levels or grades available. Plus consider granite thickness, edge styles and use as those options vary based on the application. We recommend 3CM thickness for kitchens and 2cm for bathroom vanities.
Another note when shopping for quartz countertop materials, be sure to have the supplier specify the type of stone you are purchasing as names can be deceiving. Manufacturers are often attempting to mimic a more expensive natural stone, several quartz products have stone names almost identical, if not exactly the same as their man made products.
Some quartz product names such as Capri Limestone, Charcoal Soapstone, Onyx Carrara, Calacatta Nuvo can be confused as real stone. Super White, Taj Mahal, Emperador, Thassos, Nuage, and Statuario are actually all popular, prestigious natural stones, and are also the names of synthetic countertops.
Quartz countertops can be purchased in several different thicknesses, just like granite but it is notably stronger than granite! Just like any other stone application, we recommend 3CM for use on work surfaces such as kitchen countertops and 2CM is better for bathroom vanities or walls. Some quartz, because of it’s durability is available in even thinner varieties such a 12 or 6mm thick.
Best of the Best Winners
We are proud to have been nominated and won TCPalm’s Best of the Best Award for Countertop/Granite Company for two years in a row. This annual competition allows the community to vote for their favorite companies and services.
We truly appreciate the support from our community and are proud to be fan favorites!
Carr Kitchen and Bath is proud to offer a wide variety of granite and quartz options at wholesale prices. Any material can be expertly fabricated to your custom design. Whether a waterfall edge island, seamless granite countertops or a full backsplash design, we can help you create a beautiful custom project for your home, commercial business or work space.
Call us today for an in home consultation to mix and match granite colors with our cabinet door styles to create your favorite space.
Countertop Edge Profiles
Granite Color Selection
Granite Grades or Levels
Granite Applications & Images
Quartz vs. Granite
