I was told that Quartz loses its shine over time? Is this true? Does Granite also lose its shine over time?
The only difference between Silestone vs Caesarstone is that Silestone offers more colors to choose from. Do I need to know anything else?
Any opinions will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks

They should both be able to be polished or buffed over time. Granite is more porous than quartz, but granite can be sealed.

Not sure if you have seen this post. It might give you some info. It really pays to do your homework on the different type of materials available. It does get confusing.

http://ths.gardenweb.com/forum...02564914989.html?104

You can do additional searches also. Good luck on your research!

I just went to look at my Silestone Rhine Leather countertops to see if they shine. I have had them since 2007 and haven't polished them for months, but they do have the same sheen I remember from the beginning. I love them just as much today as I did when they were installed.

I have had Silestone in a previous home. It does keep its shine if it is cleaned properly; i.e., without the use of abrasive cleansers.

I love my granite countertops and haven't had them sealed since they were installed 5 years ago. They've gotten some "patina" with use, but they still look wonderful. I clean 'em everyday with just a bit of water and mild detergent. Periodically, I use Weiman's granite polish. That's it.

Beau's: Thanks for that very detailed report. Although it doesn't touch on how to keep a shine in Caesarstone or Silestone, it DOES go into some very important info like seams and such. I am grateful.

Aychi: There's where my problem lies. What to use or not to use. Is simple windex okay or not? Do they leave you with a proper polish to use? If not, what is the brand name of any good ones?
I have a housekeeper who would have to be alerted what to use and what not to use.
Thanks for your suggestions.

SMS: What kind of polish did you use with your Silestone? You did have a leather top and that, by nature, is not as shiny as what I am getting, so I wonder if the shinier top would fade more quickly than the leather.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: arepo,

quote:

Aychi: There's where my problem lies. What to use or not to use. Is simple windex okay or not? Do they leave you with a proper polish to use? If not, what is the brand name of any good ones?
I have a housekeeper who would have to be alerted what to use and what not to use.
Thanks for your suggestions.

For everyday cleaning of Silestone or granite, I recommend just a solution of mostly water and a drop or two of mild liquid dish detergent(or SimpleGreen) in a spray bottle. I also like Mrs. Meyer's brand of cleaning products.

ETA: Forgot info on Simple Green. http://buy.simplegreen.com/home.php?cat=240

NO ABRASIVES, EVER. No Bon Ami, no Comet, no Barkeeper's Friend. No scouring pads like Brillo. You can use a gentle Teflon scrubbing sponge, if necessary.

And, I really like the Weiman's brand of cleaners and polishes for stone or quartz countertops. http://www.weiman.com/Products...leaner---Polish.aspx

This message has been edited. Last edited by: aychihuahua,

What about windex?
Just checked the Weiman (Bed, Bath & Beyond) and like that idea.
Many thanks

This message has been edited. Last edited by: arepo,

quote:

What about windex?

I hear Windex is fine for granite countertops. I don't use it because I cannot stand the smell. Give it a try.

I use the Weiman Countertop Cleaner on the rare occasions when I "polish" my counters. And you are right about the leather finish not being shiny. I don't like shiny surfaces. If I forced to choose granite counters, I'd go for a honed finish.

We have Zodiaq quartz countertops. We got them about 9 years ago and I had never heard of them losing shine. They are still shiny as ever. We never use abrasive cleaners, etc.

I love that we never have to seal them and we can set hot stuff on them, etc. They're super easy.