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One of the toughest choices for homeowners remodeling their kitchen or bath is what countertop is right for their lifestyle. By learning about the different materials, and the pros and cons of each, you will feel better equipped to make an informed decision. The overall look, upkeep, and price are major things to consider. Don’t feel like you should just jump on the bandwagon and get granite (yes, I said that), because you think everyone else is. Do your research and know that there are many options that will look just as good and could fit your style and personality even better.
Granite
Granite is a type of igneous rock that occurs in nature. In other words, it comes straight out of the earth to your kitchen, so to speak. Granite is quite heavy and needs to be used on higher end sturdy cabinets (or they need to be built-up to hold the weight). It comes in a decent variety of colors and patterns. Because it’s a stone, as long as it is properly maintained, it lasts for a long time and does not show a lot of wear and tear. Granite is porous so it does need to be sealed, and that means it can stain and hold bacteria in food preparation areas.
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Quartz
Quartz continues to gain popularity and is fast becoming the countertop of choice in many areas. Being non-porous, using quartz means less microscopic bacteria growing in the tiny pockets and spaces of the stone. It is an engineered stone product, which makes it have a wider range of colors and patterns than granite.
You will likely have less of a naturally occurring look and pattern than you get with granite. However, quartz is non-porous, which means that your coffee or soda spills will sit on top of the countertop and not soak in like they do with granite. |
Quartzite
Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock. It is created when sandstone is subjected to extreme heat and pressure caused by tectonic plate compression in the crust of the earth. The stone is mined and sawn into slabs which are later precisely cut to become countertops. The tops are polished and sealed for beauty and durability.
Quartzite is harder than granite, so it is quite durable. It withstands heat very well. Quartz is hard too, but not quite as hard as quartzite. |
Marble
Marble is a type of natural stone formed from limestone. It makes for a more glamorous and elegant type of countertop. It stacks up well to heat, but is more prone to stains since it is softer and more porous than granite.
Marble is heat resistant. In the kitchen, it stands up well to hot pans and pots. In the bathroom, a styling tool won’t mar it unless left on it hot for some time. It’s become popular for fireplace surrounds because it won’t yellow due to the heat and can withstand the occasional spark on its surface. |