In our quest for the perfect, well at least the updated kitchen, we have been examining various materials to use. One of the areas that is giving us the most agony is the kitchen countertops. We currently have laminate in an old 60’s funky yellow pattern. I am hoping for granite, my husband likes the low cost and practicality of laminate, and somewhere in all that is our perfect solution. Here is another material that we have heard so much about lately, Silestone. It has one very interesting feature that I think you’ll applaud.
What is Silestone?
Silestone is a natural quartz stone that has been somewhat engineered by combining quartz crystals, dyes and resins. According to the manufacturer, it is three times harder than granite and has the highest degree of stain, heat and scratch resistance of any countertop that is currently available.
What sets Silestone apart from other countertop materials?
Well, aside from the stuff mentioned above, Silestone comes with Mircoban, an anti-microbial treatment that provides antibacterial protection.
Does Silestone need to be sealed annually?
No. Although it is highly polished, Silestone never needs to be sealed, unlike polished granite or other polished stone.
What is the maintenance of Silestone?
You can pretty much use any normal soapy cleaner on Silestone. There are no special cleaners to buy, making it pretty easy to maintain. The manufacturer suggests that you don’t use anything on the countertop that you wouldn’t use on yourself. This limits you with antibacterial wipes, but with the Microban, you shouldn’t need them anyway.
Can I cut on Silestone?
You probably won’t scratch Silestone when cutting on it, but it is so strong that you will probably dull your knives pretty quickly.
What does Silestone Cost?
In general, you’ll find Silestone at $110 to $160 per linear foot. The cost of granite, for comparison, can range from $75 on the low-end to $200 on the high-end per linear foot.
Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.
Related Articles:
Warning to Kitchen Sink Fashion Victims
Be Wary of Trends in Kitchen Renovation
Redoing the Kitchen: Flooring Choices