Recently, a resident of Zhangjiakou City named Ms. Li 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, and since then, the entire cabinet system has been problematic. This has been a real headache for her. After hearing about this, the author conducted an investigation and found that many other users have faced similar issues. Since cabinets and countertops are often custom-made, replacing them can be both time-consuming and expensive. As a result, it's crucial for consumers to choose quality products and avoid cheap options that might lead to long-term problems.
Low-quality countertops can shorten your cabinet’s lifespan—choose wisely.
To better understand the market, the author visited several major cabinet retailers in Zhangjiakou City. It was revealed that there are four main types of countertops available: natural stone, artificial stone, quartz stone, and stainless steel. Artificial stone is commonly referred to as acrylic, while natural stone includes materials like marble, granite, and jade. In Zhangjiakou, most consumers opt for either acrylic or quartz countertops. Among these, quartz stone is a newer material made by combining over 90% quartz crystal with resins and other additives. It's known for being affordable and durable, but its hardness makes it difficult to shape into complex corners. Acrylic countertops, on the other hand, are more flexible and can be molded into various designs, making them visually appealing. They come in two types: composite acrylic and pure acrylic.
The real cause behind the cracking and collapse of Ms. Li’s countertop was the use of low-quality acrylic materials that lacked proper quality assurance. These materials often contain cheaper components like calcium carbonate, which make them prone to cracking. Additionally, poor installation and weak load-bearing structures contributed to the table sinking over time.
Understanding the pros and cons of different countertop materials is essential before making a purchase.
To help readers make informed decisions, here’s a summary of the key advantages and disadvantages of quartz and acrylic countertops. Quartz countertops are highly resistant to wear, scratches, heat, and chemicals. They are non-porous, non-toxic, and seamless, making them very durable. However, their high hardness makes them challenging to cut and shape, limiting the variety of corner designs. Acrylic countertops, on the other hand, are more flexible and can be easily shaped, allowing for more creative designs. They are also impact-resistant and easy to clean, with strong anti-staining properties. They can be seamlessly joined at any length, giving a smooth and modern look.
In terms of cost, quartz countertops tend to be pricier, but high-quality acrylic options can be comparable in price. Regarding hardness, quartz ranks second only to diamond, with a surface hardness of up to 7.5. Acrylic, while softer, is more susceptible to scratches and breakage, especially if lower-quality materials are used. When it comes to heat resistance, quartz is highly fire-resistant, with a melting point above 1300°C. Acrylic, however, should be kept away from direct heat to avoid warping or discoloration.
As a final tip, the author advises consumers to prioritize quality when purchasing kitchen cabinets. Avoid going for the cheapest options, as they may lead to long-term issues. Investing in a reputable brand ensures better durability and peace of mind.
Taizhou TS HARDWARE Co., Ltd , https://www.shuwengroup.com