Recently, Ms. Li, a resident of Zhangjiakou City, experienced a serious issue when her one-year-old countertop cracked and collapsed, causing her to fall. According to Ms. Li, she had moved into a new home over a year ago, but the entire cabinet system has been problematic ever since. This has been a real source of frustration for her. After hearing about this incident, the author conducted an investigation and discovered that many other consumers have faced similar issues. Since cabinets and countertops are usually custom-made, replacing them can be both time-consuming and costly. As a result, it's important for consumers to avoid cheap options or lack of knowledge during the purchasing process to prevent such problems.
Low-quality countertops can lead to long-term issues—be careful when choosing your products.
To better understand the situation, the author visited several major cabinet retailers in Zhangjiakou City. The countertops available on the market include four main types: natural stone, artificial stone (also known as acrylic), quartz stone, and stainless steel. Natural stone includes materials like marble, granite, and jade, while artificial stone refers to acrylic-based materials commonly called plexiglass. In Zhangjiakou, the most popular options among consumers are acrylic and quartz countertops. Among these, quartz stone is a newer material made by combining over 90% quartz crystal with resin and other trace elements. It’s known for being durable and affordable. However, due to its hardness, it's not ideal for making intricate corner designs. Acrylic countertops, on the other hand, are more flexible and can be shaped into various forms, making them visually appealing. They come in two types: composite acrylic and pure acrylic.
The root cause of the problem with Ms. Li’s countertop and others like hers was the purchase of low-quality acrylic materials that lacked proper quality assurance. These materials often contain too much calcium carbonate instead of high-quality acrylic, making them prone to cracking. Additionally, the cabinets themselves may not be structurally sound, leading to uneven weight distribution and eventual sinking of the countertop.
Understanding the pros and cons of different countertop materials is essential for making an informed decision.
Here’s a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of quartz and acrylic countertops to help you choose the best option for your kitchen. Quartz stone countertops are highly wear-resistant, scratch-proof, heat-resistant, non-polluting, and non-toxic. They are also seamless and long-lasting. However, their hardness makes it difficult to create complex corner designs. Acrylic countertops, on the other hand, are impact-resistant, flexible, and can be customized with various shapes and patterns. Their surfaces are smooth, resistant to stains, and can be seamlessly joined at any length. They are also easy to maintain and can be polished to look brand new after grinding.
In terms of price, quartz stone tends to be more expensive, but high-quality acrylic countertops can be just as costly. Regarding hardness, quartz ranks second only to diamond, with a surface hardness of up to 7.5, while acrylic is softer and more prone to scratches or breaks. The market also offers a wide range of acrylic products, so it's important to distinguish between genuine and inferior options.
When it comes to heat resistance, quartz stone is the clear winner. It can withstand temperatures above 1300°C without damage. Acrylic countertops, however, should be kept away from hot objects to avoid warping, discoloration, or damage caused by thermal expansion and contraction.
The author strongly advises consumers to choose reputable brands when purchasing kitchen cabinets and countertops. Avoiding cheap options is crucial to ensuring the durability and functionality of your furniture. Always do your research and make informed decisions to protect your investment.
Carbon Steel Non-Standard Fasteners
Taizhou TS HARDWARE Co., Ltd , https://www.shuwengroup.com