Solid surface countertops are both man-made, and a composite of polyester or acrylic polymers, natural pigments and mined minerals. The number one advantage to using these materials in countertops is that it has unnoticeable seams, due to the fact that the color patterns run all the way through the material, it is easily restored once it gets worn. Another reason that solid surface countertops have become increasingly popular is because the sink can be bonded seamlessly to the underside of the countertop. Also, because the material is non-porous, it is very easy to clean and resists staining.
Quartz countertops are made of over 90% natural quartz, which are meticulously graded for color, size and clarity, then they are mixed with natural earth pigments and polymers. This process is what will produce a countertop that is hard and non-porous, preventing the need for sealing. Quartz countertops are often indistinguishable from natural stone countertops.
Often times, granite comes to mind while thinking about natural stone countertops. While Granite is very popular, marble, limestone and travertine are also excellent options. For kitchen countertops, granite is usually the best choice because it is very hard and endures the heavy use that most kitchens usually receive.
