One thing’s for sure, if you're remodeling your kitchen, choosing the right countertop material can be a daunting prospect. Aside from choosing the right color scheme, you also have an abundace of options to choose from when it comes to the different type of materials available. So for those of you who like the look of natural stone, yet are unsure of which is right for you, we’ve pulled together a list of the 4 top stone countertop surfaces for kitchen countertops and explained there differences, to help you make the right choice.
- Granite
This 100 % natural stone produces colorful hues via its mottled appearance and is incredibly durable; knife nicks and heat are no issue to granite. It is removed from the ground as one large chunk of stone, then smoothed and cut to shape. Since it is a natural stone, there may be variations in color and pattern.Granite does have to be sealed periodically to prevent staining and dulling of its shine. It is also extremely heavy, so will require strong, durable cabinetry beneath it.
- Quartz (Engineered Stone)
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered quartz is made of about 90% natural quartz crystals, crushed and mixed with anywhere from 5-10% polymer resins (clear liquid plastic product) which is where the name "engineered quartz" came about. Because it is mixed and shaped in a factory, it can be easily made into any shape and color imaginable, as well as, offering many choices for edging, allowing it to conform to all styles of a home.
Engineered quartz is becoming extremely popular due to its similarity to natural stone, extreme durability, and unlimited color choices, making it a perfect choice for all styles of high traffic kitchens. It is also non porous which keeps this countertop 99.9% bacteria free, easy to clean, and maintenance free. It never needs to be sealed, or polished and will look shiny and new, for many years, as it did the day it was installed. One downside of quartz to be aware of, is they may change color when exposed to light. So if you have sunlight from a window beaming on part of the quartz for long periods of time, be aware that it may change color over time, in comparison to the part that isn't exposed to direct light.
- Marble
A very traditional choice; this stone exudes style and elegance and whose radiance cannot be matched by any other surface. Marble is also the least expensive of the solid natural hard surface materials such as granite or courts. Marble has no problem with heat where a lot of baking is done. But marble, however, does need to be sealed. Even when sealed properly, marble can stain, if acidic foods such as red wine or tomato sauce is spilled and left on for a period of time, even if it has been sealed properly.
- SlateA nonporous, natural stone that is echo friendly and all natural. You may be used to seeing slate used in flooring, or roofing and other exterior areas. But, this stone has a lot of great qualities, allowing to be used in the Kitchen. Slate actually does not soak up stains as marble does, nor does it chip or crack easily, is heat resistant and needs very little maintenance. So it's great to use in the kitchen. There aren't as many color choices as granite or quartzite though. Usually, the shades of slate are black, gray, blue or brown. Also know that there aren't many choices for edging, as there are with Quartz (Quartzite). Due to the rough edges of slate, there aren't many options for edging for countertops. Mostly they are shaped in a standard square edge, with the edges being softened up. Also, be sure to check a sample of the particular slate you may purchase, and test it with foods, chemicals, and wear and tear before choosing to purchase, as not all slate sones are the same.
Now that you have this information, go out and look at some samples of the stones of your choice, or better yet, have your remodeling contractor suggest some places they recommend. Each stone is unique, and has there own pros and cons. Our personal favorite at State Wide Construction and RemodelingState Wide Construction and Remodeling in Los Angeles, for high traffic kitchens is the engineered quartz stone, due to its durability, and ease of cleaning with no sealing or polishing needed.
