When it comes to kitchen and bathroom remodeling, most people want the toughest and most durable surfaces, which creates a lot of confusion as to how to choose between Transolid and Swanstone.
These two stone brands are often used interchangeably, but they are actually very different products. Since they are both manufactured entirely in the USA, it can be hard to understand the benefits of each stone. This article will give you a run-through of the differences and help you decide which product is better for your next kitchen or bathroom renovation.
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Transolid Vs Swanstone: Brand Overview
The two most common types of stone used in bathrooms and kitchen countertops are Transolid and Swanstone. Both are artificial stone materials that are easy to clean and maintain. But they have different characteristics that make each material a good choice for certain applications.
Swanstone is a quartz composite material made from crushed quartz crystals and acrylic. It looks and feels like an artificial stone, but it’s much more durable and resistant to moisture.
Transolid is another brand of solid surface material made from crushed stone with a non-porous acrylic or polyester composition. It’s a durable material that can withstand the rigors of everyday use in the bathroom or kitchen.
Transolid has been used for over 30 years by homeowners who love its durability and ease of maintenance. It’s also great for those who have pets or children because it’s easy to clean up any messes they make with water and mild soap!
They both have beautiful finishes that make them ideal for bathrooms or kitchens that need to withstand moisture exposure. Both are durable materials that will last for decades when properly installed and maintained. However, they have some differences you should be aware of before buying.
Transolid Vs Swanstone: What’s the Difference?
These two types of stone are very similar in nature and appearance, but there are some important differences between them that you should know about before deciding which one to use in your bathroom or kitchen renovation project.
Scratch Resistance:
Both stones have very good scratch resistance properties that make them suitable for use in bathrooms, kitchens, or any other part of the house where there’s potentially harsh treatment from cleaning products or other items being dropped on them regularly.
Cleaning:
Swanstone is harder and less porous, so it’s easier to clean compared to Transolid. You can use warm water and dish soap or a mild detergent solution on both surfaces, but you should avoid using an abrasive cleaner or acidic solutions on either surface.
Abrasion Resistance:
Transolid is more abrasion-resistant. It’s heavier than Swanstone and can withstand more wear and tear. In addition, it has a higher water absorption rate than Swanstone. However, this also makes Transolid less durable since it will take longer to dry after being exposed to moisture.
Durability:
Transolid is made from crushed stone with a non-porous acrylic composition. On the other hand, Swanstone is made of acrylic materials and actual quartz crystals. Quartz is more durable than crushed stone, so it will last longer. In addition, the quartz crystals give Swanstone the unique appearance that makes it stand out from other countertops.
Appearance:
Swanstone is more natural-looking than Transolid, as it doesn’t have a “shiny” appearance like Transolid does. This means that if you have an older house that needs a facelift and you’re trying to match it to its original look, Transolid may not be for you. However, if you’re looking for something modern and clean-cut, Transolid may be perfect for your home!
Fire Retardant:
Transolid has better thermal insulation properties than Swanstone. This means that it will keep your bathroom or kitchen cooler in warm weather and warmer in cold weather compared to Transolid.
Swanstone lacks a fire-retardant feature like most other materials used for kitchen countertops.
Heat Resistance:
The heat resistance of both products is similar because they are both made with acrylic in their core materials. However, there is still a difference between them when it comes to heat resistance because the Swanstone material is denser than the Transolid material; therefore, it would be able to withstand higher temperatures than the Transolid material.
Price Comparison:
Transolid is a premium product, and it’s not cheap. But if you want to get your hands on this material, you can still get a discount by buying in bulk. On the other hand, Swanstone is an affordable option for those who want to save money and still get high-quality material for their bathroom or kitchen remodeling project.
Installation:
Both Transolid and Swanstone can be installed by any homeowner with the minimum amount of training and expertise. The process includes cleaning and polishing the floor before the application of either product.
Transolid is lighter than Swanstone because it has less quartz and feldspar in it. This means that it is easier to install, especially on walls. It also means that it will not crack easily during installation. This can be very helpful when you are installing the stone yourself!
Transolid Vs Swanstone: Which Stone to Use in Your Bathroom or Kitchen?
In the end, both Transolid and Swanstone are quality stone choices for your bathroom or kitchen remodel. If you’re not sure where to start, a general contractor will probably be able to help you make the right choice. As always, price is an important consideration–but it shouldn’t be the only one.
In fact, these days, you’ll often find that a higher-end countertop material can actually save you money in the long run due to its durability (by requiring less maintenance). Of course, only a stone professional can help you determine which countertop is best for your project.
If your budget is a concern or your project allows for it, you can’t go wrong with Swanstone. Both stones are durable and look great, but the difference comes down to how you want your stone to feel.
If a matte surface is what you prefer, Transolid is the way to go. Or, if you want a super slick finish on stone slabs, go with the Swanstone. Either way, both offer seamless integration into your existing bathroom or kitchen design, and either can be installed by an authorized and experienced contractor.