DIFFERENT TYPES OF STONE

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 According to the dictionary, granite is a very hard, granular, crystalline, igneous rock consisting mainly of quartz, mica and feldspar and often used as a building stone.  We can all search the real definition, but in Laymen’s terms, it is simply put, a rock.

Granite is formed at very high temperatures and therefore it will not burn or degrade over time.  That is why granite is a great material to be used for countertops, fireplaces, backsplashes, vanities, etc.  It also makes for a great option for outdoor kitchens.

  It has proven to be very durable, holds up well to wear and tear, and is affordable.  Granite is unlikely to stain, but depending on the color, it can.  The lighter the stone the more susceptible it is to staining.   

Granite is also available in a variety of colors.  However, there are not a lot of bright white granites in the world because there are not a lot of white mountains.  Granites are available in golds, browns, blacks, beige and some darker whites that sometimes can appear gray.  Often, these lighter colors also have ‘garnet’ berries in them.  They can appear red or purple depending on the background.

Overall, granite is an excellent choice for countertops because of the price points, durability and overall beauty.

 Marble is a metamorphic rock, sedimentary carbonate rocks that have been transformed by the geologic effects of intense heat, pressure and chemical action. It is composed primarily of calcium carbonate. Relatively soft with a dense, uniform composition it is a popular stone for sculpture, building, flooring and countertops. 

The honing allows for any imperfections or etching to be disguised more easily.

Overall, marble is softer than other natural stones. 

 Quartz is a man-made product.  

 While most quartz products are comprised of a percentage of natural quartz it also has epoxies and resins that hold it together. 

 Quartz materials have come a long way in the last several years with the help of technology to allow the imitation of marble.  

Quartz has proven to be a competitor to marble and other natural stones without the typical ‘upkeep’ associated with natural stones.  Unlike marble, quartz will not etch or require the maintenance like marble and other natural stones. 

PROS:   

NATURAL:

Apart from the necessary post-installation sealing products, granite is as natural a product as one can find.

DURABLE:

Granite countertops resist damage from heat and scratch better than almost all other types of countertops. They'll also last longer than most.

UNIQUE BEAUTY:

No two slabs of granite are exactly alike, offering a unique pattern and color scheme for each countertop. This one-of-a-kind beauty adds a bespoke touch to any kitchen or bathroom. 

CONS:

LIMITED REPAIR OPTIONS:

Granite is difficult to damage. However, if it does sustain significant damage, repairs can be costly, difficult or simply not possible. Repair is usually performed by professionals.

 COST:

While granite countertops are a long-lasting investment, they come with a higher upfront cost when compared to other materials like laminate or tile.

WEIGHT:

Granite is a heavy material, requiring robust cabinet bases to support its weight. Ensure your existing or planned cabinetry is strong enough to bear the load.

PROS:

 AESTHETIC APPEAL:

Marble is known for its elegant, luxurious appearance and unique natural patterns, making it a popular choice for countertops, flooring, and other surfaces

NATURAL MATERIAL:

Marble is a natural stone, which means it's a sustainable and environmentally friendly option. 

 DURABILITY:

Marble is resistant to heat and can withstand moderate temperatures, making it suitable for kitchen surfaces. 

CONS:

HIGH MAINTENANCE:

Marble is porous and can easily stain or etch, requiring regular sealing and cleaning. 

ACIDIC SENSITIVITY:

Marble can be etched or damaged by acidic substances, so it's important to avoid placing acidic foods or drinks directly on the surface.

PROS:

LOW MAINTENANCE: 

Being non-porous, quartz countertops are highly stain-resistant and don't require sealing like some other materials. 

 STAIN RESISTANCE:

Spills and stains are easily wiped away, keeping your countertops looking clean and new. 

CONSISTENT APPEARANCE:

Unlike natural stones, quartz offers a consistent color and pattern throughout the slab. 

CONS:

HEAT SENSITVITY:

Quartz can be damaged by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, so it's crucial to use trivets or hot pads when placing hot items on the surface. 

VISIBLE SEAMS:

In larger installations, seams can be visible where the slabs are joined together. 

PRICE:

Quartz countertops are typically more expensive than other options like laminate or solid surface, according to Pablo Marble and Granite.