Stone Countertops - Selecting The Right Stone Material
We have any colour you want and more.
Stone countertops can be a stunning addition to any kitchen. Selecting the right stone material for your countertop may seem like a daunting experience, as each type come with their own set of pros and cons. We're here to put your mind at ease and help you make the right decision.
Click on each stone countertop option below to learn more about each type.
Quartz: Stone Countertops
Quartz countertops have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. Here's an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of quartz countertops:
Pros of Quartz Countertops:
Durability:
Quartz countertops are exceptionally durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and impact. They are often considered one of the most robust countertop materials available.
Low Maintenance:
Quartz is non-porous, so it doesn't require sealing like natural stone countertops. It is easy to clean with mild soap and water, making it a low-maintenance option.
Hygienic:
Because of their non-porous nature, quartz countertops are highly resistant to bacteria and mold growth, which makes them a hygienic choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Wide Range of Colors and Patterns:
Quartz countertops come in a vast array of colors and patterns. Manufacturers can customize the appearance to mimic the look of natural stone like granite or marble.
Consistency:
Unlike natural stone countertops, quartz slabs are uniform in color and pattern throughout, which can be appealing if you want a consistent appearance.
Heat Resistance:
While not completely heat-proof, quartz countertops are more heat-resistant than many other materials like laminate or solid surface countertops. However, it's still advisable to use trivets or hot pads to protect them from extreme heat.
Longevity:
With proper care, quartz countertops can last for many years, often outlasting some other countertop materials.
Cons of Quartz Countertops
Cost:
Quartz countertops can be relatively expensive compared to some other options like laminate or tile. Prices vary depending on the brand, design, and installation requirements.
Not Completely Heat-Resistant:
While quartz is more heat-resistant than some materials, it can still be damaged by extreme heat, such as hot pans directly from the stove or oven. Heat-resistant mats or trivets are recommended.
Weight:
Quartz countertops are heavy, which means that proper support and installation are essential. Your cabinets underneath must be strong enough to bear its weight.
Limited Seam Options:
In larger kitchens, seams may be necessary if a single slab cannot cover the entire countertop. Seam visibility can be a concern, although a skilled installer can minimize this issue.
Susceptibility to UV Radiation:
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the color of quartz countertops to fade over time. This is typically not a concern indoors but may be relevant for outdoor applications.
Not Natural Stone:
While some people appreciate the uniform appearance of quartz, others prefer the natural variation found in genuine stone countertops like granite or marble.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.
Granite: Stone Countertops
Granite countertops have long been a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their natural beauty and durability. Here's an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of granite countertops:
Pros of Granite Countertops:
Natural Beauty:
Granite is a natural stone, and each slab is unique with its own patterns, colors, and veining. It adds a timeless and elegant look to your space.
Durability:
Granite is one of the hardest natural stones, making it highly resistant to scratches, heat, and impact. It can withstand the rigors of a busy kitchen.
Heat Resistance:
Granite countertops are exceptionally heat-resistant. You can place hot pots and pans directly on the surface without causing damage.
Longevity:
With proper care and maintenance, granite countertops can last for decades, making them a long-term investment.
Variety of Colors and Patterns:
Granite comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing you to find a slab that that will beautifully complement your kitchen or bathroom design
Ease of Cleaning:
Granite is relatively easy to clean with mild soap and water. Regular sealing is recommended to maintain its appearance and prevent staining.
Cons of Granite Countertops
Cost:
Granite countertops can be relatively expensive, especially for premium or exotic varieties. The cost includes not only the material but also fabrication and installation.
Porosity:
Granite is a natural stone, and some varieties can be porous. Without proper sealing, it can absorb liquids and be susceptible to stains. However, regular sealing can mitigate this issue.
Maintenance:
While maintenance is relatively straightforward, granite countertops do require periodic sealing to maintain their resistance to stains and moisture. The frequency of sealing depends on the type of granite and its level of porosity.
Some acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar can etch the surface of granite if left for an extended period. Prompt cleanup is recommended to avoid this issue.
Weight:
Granite is heavy, so proper support is necessary. Your cabinets must be sturdy enough to support the weight of the granite slab.
Limited Color Consistency:
While granite's natural variation is a pro for many, it can be a con for those who prefer a more uniform appearance.
Visible Seams:
In larger kitchens, seams may be necessary if a single slab cannot cover the entire countertop. Properly done seams are usually inconspicuous, but they can be visible in some cases.
Natural Flaws:
Granite is a natural material, and some slabs may have natural flaws, such as fissures or pits. These flaws are usually cosmetic and don't affect the stone's durability.
Marble: Stone Countertops
Marble countertops are known for their luxurious appearance and classic appeal. Here's an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of marble countertops:
Pros of Marble Countertops:
Elegant Aesthetic:
Marble is renowned for its timeless and elegant beauty. Its veining and patterns create a luxurious and sophisticated look that can enhance the overall aesthetics of your kitchen.
Variety of Colors:
Marble is available in a range of natural colors, including white, gray, beige, and more, giving you options to match your design preferences.
Cool Surface:
Marble countertops have a naturally cool surface, making them an excellent choice for baking and pastry work, as well as for keeping your kitchen feeling comfortable in warmer weather.
Resale Value:
Marble countertops can add significant value to your home and can be an attractive selling point to potential buyers due to their high-end appeal.
Cons of Marble Countertops
Porosity:
Marble is a porous natural stone, which means it can absorb liquids and is susceptible to staining. Spills like wine, coffee, and acidic substances can leave permanent marks if not cleaned promptly.
Scratch and Etch Prone:
Marble is relatively soft compared to some other countertop materials, so it can scratch and etch (lose its shine) more easily, especially in high-traffic areas.
Regular Sealing Required:
To maintain its appearance and protect against stains, marble countertops need to be sealed regularly, typically every 6 to 12 months. Sealing is essential because of its porous nature.
Vulnerable to Acid:
Marble is sensitive to acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, and some cleaning products. These can etch the surface if not quickly wiped up.
Cost:
Marble countertops can be expensive, especially for premium varieties or those with intricate patterns. The cost includes not only the material but also fabrication and installation.
Limited Color Consistency:
Similar to granite, marble's natural variation is appreciated by many but may not suit those who prefer a uniform appearance.
Susceptibility to Impact:
Marble is relatively softer and more prone to chipping and cracking compared to harder materials like granite or quartz.
High Maintenance:
Keeping marble countertops looking their best requires more attention and care than some other materials. Regular cleaning and sealing are essential, and some homeowners may find this upkeep demanding.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.
Quartzite: Stone Countertops
Quartzite countertops are a popular choice for those seeking natural stone surfaces that offer durability and aesthetics. Here's an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of quartzite countertops:
Pros of Quartzite Countertops:
Natural Beauty:
Quartzite is a natural stone known for its stunning appearance. It often features intricate veining, unique patterns, and a wide range of colors, making it a visually appealing choice.
Durability:
Quartzite is a very hard and durable material, similar to granite. It is resistant to scratches, heat, and impact, making it suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens.
Heat Resistance:
Quartzite countertops are highly heat-resistant, allowing you to place hot pots and pans directly on the surface without causing damage.
Low Maintenance:
While quartzite does require periodic sealing to protect against stains, it generally requires less maintenance than some other natural stones like marble.
Variety of Colors and Patterns:
Quartzite offers a wide variety of color options and unique patterns, allowing you to choose a slab that complements your design preferences.
Natural Stone Appeal:
For those who appreciate the look and feel of natural stone, quartzite provides an authentic and luxurious appearance.
Cons of Quartzite Countertops
Porosity:
Like many natural stones, quartzite is porous, which means it can absorb liquids and is susceptible to staining. You will need to do regular sealing to prevent this from happening.
Scratch Sensitivity:
While quartzite is durable, it is not entirely scratch-proof. It can still be scratched by abrasive materials or cutting directly on the surface.
Cost:
Quartzite countertops can be relatively expensive, especially for premium varieties or those with intricate patterns. The cost includes the material itself, fabrication, and installation.
Limited Color Consistency:
Similar to other natural stones, quartzite's unique patterns and colors may not offer the uniformity found in engineered quartz countertops.
Regular Maintenance:
While less maintenance-intensive compared to some other natural stones, quartzite countertops still require regular sealing to protect against stains and to maintain their appearance.
Weight:
Quartzite is heavy, so proper support is necessary. You need to install cabinets that are strong enough to support the weight of your quartzite slab.
Natural Flaws:
Quartzite is a natural material and may contain natural flaws such as fissures, pits, or veining variations. These are typically cosmetic and don't affect the stone's durability.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.
Lapitec: Stone Countertops
Lapitec is a sintered stone surface material that is gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional natural stone and engineered stone surfaces like quartz. Here's an overview:
Pros of Lapitec Countertops:
Durability:
Lapitec is highly durable and resistant to scratches, abrasion, and impact. It is well-suited for high-traffic areas, including kitchen countertops.
Heat Resistance:
Lapitec is heat-resistant, making it suitable for use around stovetops and hot pans.
Stain Resistance:
Lapitec is non-porous and does not absorb liquids, which makes it highly resistant to staining from common kitchen substances like coffee, wine, and oils.
Hygienic:
Being non-porous also means Lapitec is easy to clean and maintain, and it is highly resistant to bacterial growth.
UV Resistance:
Lapitec is UV-stable and does not fade or discolor when exposed to sunlight, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Large Format Slabs:
Lapitec is available in large format slabs, which means fewer seams in installations, creating a more seamless and uniform appearance.
Wide Range of Colours and Finishes:
Lapitec offers a variety of colours and finishes, including polished, honed, and textured options, allowing for design flexibility.
Cons of Lapitec Countertops
Cost:
Lapitec is generally more expensive than some other countertop materials, including granite and quartz. The cost includes the material, fabrication, and installation.
Weight:
Lapitec slabs are heavy, so proper support is necessary. Cabinets must be sturdy enough to support the weight of the slabs.
Limited Seams:
While having fewer seams can be an advantage, it can also be a disadvantage if you have a complex kitchen layout where seam placement becomes challenging.
Not Entirely Scratch-Proof:
While Lapitec is highly scratch-resistant, it is not entirely scratch-proof, and sharp or abrasive objects can still damage the surface..
Complex Installation:
Due to its weight and potential brittleness, Lapitec may require professional installation by experienced fabricators.
Brittleness:
While Lapitec is durable, it can be brittle and may be more prone to chipping or cracking under extreme impacts compared to some natural stone materials.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.
*The above Countertop was made by Caesarstone.