You are ready to remodel your kitchen or bathroom but there are so many choices right? Pinterest & Houzz are peppered with pictures of gorgeous kitchens with custom cabinets and granite countertops but the quartz countertops are just as beautiful. And then there is marble to consider as well.
So how do you choose? What’s the best countertop material out there today? What's the difference between marble, granite and quartz? We're here to answer your questions and help you pick the custom countertop for your home building or remodeling needs.
First things first, there is no wrong answer here. All of these choices are beautiful and will last you many years to come. It really comes down to personal preference. Here is a breakdown of the difference between each stone that will help you narrow down your choices.
Granite countertops: Granite used for countertops is mined in granite quarries across the world. It is a 100% natural stone that comes from the earth. It is cut into slabs which are then cut and polished to produce granite countertops.
Granite countertops might be more affordable than you think. It's typically the most affordable of the three.
Granite is a very hard stone and can withstand high usage and high heats without damaging the stone. Granite is a porous stone and does require sealing. Without proper sealing, staining and discoloration can occur.
The color options for granite countertops are endless. No two granite slabs are exactly alike. Some color options are more patterned and consistent while others will have lots of movement, veins and colors throughout.
Marble countertops: Marble, similar to Granite is a 100% natural stone mined from the earth. It is also imported from marble quarries around the world, cut into slabs then polished to create countertops.
Pricing on marble countertops is comparable to quartz and higher category granite slabs. As with any natural stone, price is determined by the characteristics of the stone. The more unique or rare the stone, the higher the price.
Marble is the softest of the three stones and therefore is not as often used in Kitchens. Marble is more prone to scratches and staining since it is softer but is still used in some kitchens, bathrooms and furniture pieces.
Marble is also a porous stone and does require sealing. It is also often seen in light colors which makes Marble the most susceptible to staining. Stone sealants have come a long way however, and they will protect your countertops when used properly.
Marble is a classic and timeless stone. It is often seen in bright white color that you don’t necessarily find in granite. It does however come in colors other than white. Marble’s distinct feature is the large, unpredictable veining throughout the stone.
Quartz countertops: Quartz is a man-made product. It is made by combining various types of natural quartz with resin and coloring, the typical breakdown is approximately 93% quartz and 7% resin. While still considered a “Natural Stone” it is not made of 100% natural products.
As quartz countertops rise in popularity, they become more and more affordable with prices comparable to that of granite countertops. Typically though, you can expect quartz countertops to be slightly more expensive than granite.
Quartz is also very hard but it cannot withstand as high of temperatures as Granite. It is not recommended to ever set a hot pot or pan directly onto your Quartz surfaces. Doing so could burn or discolor your countertop.
Quartz is the only stone, out of the three, that does not require sealing. It is not porous therefore it is more resistant to staining making quartz a popular, maintenance-free countertop choice.
Since quartz is man-made, manufacturers continue to produce new color options. Typically, quartz countertops are consistent in pattern, appearing as if the countertop is one solid color of stone.
If you have any further questions, please contact J&L Custom Countertops by giving us a call or stopping by. Make a visit to our showroom to view our 13,000 sf. slab room to see granite, quartz, marble and quartzite countertop options for your home renovation or new construction build. We are Alabama's premiere custom countertop fabrication and installation provider. We serve clients in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and the surrounding areas.