Natural Stone Countertops

Sep. 19

If you are renovating your kitchen or building a new home and are considering purchasing a natural stone countertop, here is everything you should know to help you with your decision. Click on each section to learn more.

What Is a Natural Stone Countertop?
Pictures of Natural Stone Countertops
Natural Stone Countertop Colours
Types of Natural Stones Used for Countertops
Best Materials for Natural Stone Countertops
What Are the Advantages of Natural Stone Countertops?
What Are the Disadvantages of Natural Stone Countertops?
Is Natural Stone Better than Quartz?
Is Natural Stone Hard to Maintain?

Our staff are experienced stone countertop specialists and can answer all of your questions as well as help you select the perfect countertop for your space. We have any color you want and more and you will get better value for your dollar when you buy from Natural Stone City. Contact us to get started.

Natural Stone Countertops

1. What Is a Natural Stone Countertop?

A natural stone countertop is quarried from the earth in one piece.

A natural stone countertop is made from a slab of stone that already exists in nature. As its name implies, it is a naturally occurring stone. The stone is quarried from the earth in one solid piece and is then transformed to make a beautiful countertop.

Whether you should choose a natural stone countertop over a man-made one depends on factors like the following:

Your aesthetic preferences
Budget
Intended use of the countertop

Each type of natural stone has its own unique characteristics and maintenance requirements, so it's essential to consider the above factors when selecting a natural stone countertop for your home.

2. Pictures of Natural Stone Countertops

Here are some examples of various types of natural stone countertops you could have installed in your own kitchen.

For more natural stone countertop options, check out our Countertop Colours page.

3. Natural Stone Countertop Colours

Natural stone countertops come in a wide variety of colours including:

If you are looking for the widest selection of natural stone slabs in Southern Ontario, visit our warehouse to choose your perfect countertop yourself. You can choose from exquisite slabs shipped from Italy and elsewhere.

Not only will you get better value for your dollar when you buy from Natural Stone City, but you will find any colour you want and more.

4. Types of Natural Stones Used for Countertops

As opposed to engineered stone countertops, natural stone countertops are made from complete slabs, and are typically crafted from the following types of natural stones:

Granite:

Granite is an igneous rock, which means it forms from the solidification of molten magma deep within the Earth's crust. Granite is composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, mica, and other minerals. It is one of the most popular choices for natural stone countertops.

Granite is renowned for its durability, hardness, and resistance to heat and scratching. It comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it a versatile option for various kitchen and bathroom designs.

Marble:

Marble is a type of metamorphic rock that is composed primarily of calcite or dolomite minerals. It is known for its distinctive appearance, characterized by its beautiful veining and a wide range of colors, including white, gray, green, pink, and beige.

It is often used for high-end countertops due to its luxurious appearance. However, marble is softer and more susceptible to staining and etching than granite, so it requires more careful maintenance.

**Image Source:** **Aleksander Kaasik, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons**

Quartzite:

Quartzite is a natural stone that closely resembles marble in appearance but is generally harder and more durable. It is a metamorphic rock composed almost entirely of quartz.

It's an excellent choice for those who want the aesthetic appeal of marble but with greater resistance to stains and etching.

**Image Source:** **Manishwiki15, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons**

Soapstone:

Soapstone is another type of metamorphic rock that is primarily made up of talc mixed with other minerals.

Soapstone countertops have a smooth, matte finish and are valued for their heat resistance.

They develop a natural patina over time, which can enhance their appearance. Soapstone is often chosen for its rustic charm.

**Image Source:** **Ra'ike (see also: de:Benutzer:Ra'ike), CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons**

Slate:

Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock that is characterized by its natural, rustic appearance and durability.

Slate comes in a variety of colors, including gray, green, black, purple, and red, with shades often determined by the minerals present.

They are a popular choice for indoor kitchens as well as outdoor applications.

**Image Source:** **I, Jonathan Zander, CC BY-SA 3.0 <http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/>, via Wikimedia Commons**

Limestone:

Limestone is a sedimentary rock primarily composed of calcium carbonate minerals. It is often used in construction for its natural beauty and versatility, appearing in applications such as flooring, wall cladding, and countertops.

Limestone countertops have a softer and more porous surface compared to some other natural stones, making them less ideal for high-traffic kitchens but suitable for bathrooms and lower-impact areas where they won’t experience as much wear and tear such as a laundry room.

**Image Source:** **Ponor, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons**

5. Best Materials for Natural Stone Countertops

The "best" natural stone for countertops can vary depending on individual preferences, needs, and the specific characteristics that matter most to you. It's important to note that there's no universally agreed-upon ranking of natural stones from best to worst, as each stone has its own unique qualities.

However, here is a general list of some popular natural stones for countertops, along with their notable features. Keep in mind that what's considered the best stone for you may be different from someone else.

Granite:
Granite is often considered one of the best choices due to its exceptional durability, resistance to scratches and heat, and wide range of colors and patterns.

Quartzite:
Quartzite is highly regarded for its strength, durability, and similarity in appearance to marble while being more resistant to staining and etching.

Marble:
Marble is known for its timeless beauty and elegance. It's a top choice for those who prioritize aesthetics, but it requires more maintenance to prevent staining and etching.

Soapstone:
Soapstone is appreciated for its heat resistance and unique, rustic appearance. It's a good choice for those seeking a more natural and low-maintenance countertop.

Slate:
Slate offers a distinctive, rustic look and is highly durable, making it a great option for outdoor kitchens and indoor spaces with a similar aesthetic.

Limestone:
Limestone is less dense and softer than granite or quartzite, making it suitable for areas with less traffic or for bathroom countertops.

You should consult with a stone professional or supplier to understand the unique characteristics of each stone type and how they align with your requirements. Ultimately, the "best" natural stone for countertops is the one that best meets your individual needs and complements your design vision.

6. What Are the Advantages of Natural Stone Countertops

There are many advantages to purchasing a natural stone countertop.

Natural stone countertops are exceptionally durable and can withstand everyday wear and tear. They are highly resistant to the following:

Scratches
Heat
Staining when properly sealed and maintained

Additionally, natural stone offers a wide range of beautiful choices, with various colors, patterns, and textures to suit different design styles.

Each slab is unique, adding a touch of natural beauty and luxury to any space. Moreover, natural stone countertops have a timeless quality that can enhance the value of your home. Overall, if you're willing to invest in proper care and appreciate the beauty of natural materials, natural stone countertops can be an excellent choice for both functional and aesthetic reasons.

7. What Are the Disadvantages of Natural Stone Countertops?

When using complete slabs of natural stone for countertops, it's essential to choose slabs that have been carefully selected and inspected for quality. Additionally, proper sealing and maintenance are crucial to ensure the longevity and beauty of the countertop.

Each type of natural stone has its own unique characteristics and care requirements, so it's essential to consult with a stone professional or supplier to choose the best option for your specific needs and preferences.

8. Is Natural Stone Better Than Quartz?

The choice between natural stone and quartz depends on your specific needs and preferences. Natural stone, such as granite, offers a timeless, unique aesthetic with variations in color and pattern. It's durable but requires periodic maintenance like sealing to prevent stains.

In contrast, quartz is engineered, offering consistency in appearance and excellent durability with minimal upkeep. It's non-porous, making it more resistant to stains and bacteria.

Both materials have pros and cons. It's a matter of prioritizing aesthetics, maintenance, and budget. Natural stone appeals to those seeking a classic look, while quartz suits those who prefer low-maintenance and uniformity.

9. Is Natural Stone Hard to Maintain?

Maintaining natural stone, such as granite or marble, can be more involved than other materials. Natural stone is porous, which means it can absorb liquids and be susceptible to staining if not properly sealed. Regular sealing, typically once a year, helps prevent stains and keeps the stone looking its best.

Cleaning with a pH-balanced stone cleaner is essential to avoid damage. Additionally, some natural stones can be sensitive to acidic substances like citrus or vinegar.

Despite the maintenance requirements, many homeowners find the beauty and uniqueness of natural stone worth the effort, but it's essential to be aware of these considerations when choosing it for your space.