Granite Works

In a study conducted by home improvement website Houzz, a total of 1,337 U.S. homeowners were asked about their recent or planned kitchen renovation projects. The findings revealed interesting data regarding preferences on styles and finishes, aging-in-place arrangements and upgraded features. Also included in the study is the top-trending kitchen countertop material. 

The Dominance of Engineered Materials

According to the survey, engineered materials for countertops have increased in popularity among those renovating their kitchen. Since 2017, quartz countertops have seen a market share increase of seven percentage points. As a result, it is now a popular option over natural stone. On the opposite end, granite’s market share declined 10% since that same year.

Engineered materials are also widely popular flooring options. Close to 40% of the surveyed homeowners prefer engineered wood, vinyl and laminate, as opposed to only a quarter who chose natural hardwood.

Comparing Engineered Quartz and Natural Stone

There are advantages to both engineered quartz and natural stone. Despite their differences, these countertop materials give kitchens their appealing aesthetic.

Engineered quartz is composed of 93% quartz and 7% binders and color. It has small particles of glass or reflective metal flakes mixed with the polyester binder to hold them and the quartz component together. The resulting slab is attractive, extremely strong and durable, and resistant to staining and bacteria, thanks to its non-porous properties.

Natural stone, meanwhile, is known for its visual aesthetics and durability. Granite, marble and soapstone are some of the examples, and, when any one of them is installed as countertop, it transforms the kitchen from good to great. These materials require little maintenance and can resist spills and cuts from knives. They are also unique since no two slabs of natural stone are exactly alike.

Turn to Granite Works, your one-stop shop for countertops in the local area. With so many beautiful designs and materials to choose from, our team will guide you in the right direction without blowing your project budget. Call us at (301) 712-9486, or fill out our contact form to request a free no-obligation quote. We serve residents of Maryland and surrounding areas.