Choosing a countertop for your kitchen or bathroom can be stressful, and we understand why! They can be one of the most expensive aspects of a renovation, with the added responsibility of affecting the aesthetics of a space. Picking the “right” countertop shouldn’t be a decision based exclusively on looks; factors like durability, price, ease of maintenance. You should also consider availability when making your decision.
But we can help! We break down the pros and cons of engineered quartz, granite, and marble.
Engineered Quartz
Pros: Engineered quartz is made by several different manufacturers in a wide range of colors and textures. It’s made with the general durability of real stone slabs, but with the ease of manufacturing and installation of a man-made product. As a result, engineered quartz isn’t as expensive as other natural stone countertops. It’s also non-porous, so it doesn’t stain like natural stone can, and doesn’t chip or crack as easily.
Cons: On the other hand, customers can expect to see these qualities reflected in the price of engineered quartz, which can be on the higher end. Quartz also doesn’t handle extreme heat as well as granite does. Therefore it could potentially crack if exposed to enough heat.
Granite
Pros: As one of the most common, higher-end countertop materials, granite is a very hard substance that is resistant to scratches. In fact, it’s so hard that it will dull most knife blades! It’s also resistant to heat and, when sealed, stains as well. They are one of the most heat-resistant countertops on the market. A granite countertop in the bathroom will not suffer from heat marks from hair dryers or curlers. It’s also available in a range of colors. Granite scores a seven on Moh’s scale of hardness. This means that very few minerals are able to scratch it. Undermount sinks are common in granite countertop installations and are an additional benefit. This allows crumbs and spills to be wiped directly into the sink without being caught on the lip of a surface mount sink.
Cons: Because granite naturally is porous, it does need to be resealed every 8 to 10 years to maintain its resistance to staining. And because its a natural material, it’s not available in as wide a range of colors as other man-made countertop options.
Marble
Pros: Known for being one of the most desirable, elegant materials for countertops, marble won’t disappoint. It is heat-resistant, and available in a range of colors. And as a naturally occurring product, marble offers a one-of-a-kind option where each slab is different. Since marble was created from sedimentary dolomite or limestone rock through a natural process, each piece is unique in appearance. Man-made countertop materials attempt to imitate the look of marble with only limited success. The reason marble remains in heavy demand for countertops is its elegant good looks. No two slabs are alike, so you’ll be assured of having a unique countertop for your home.
Cons: Marble isn’t without its flaws though. Its high price means that it isn’t an option for everyone. It is also quite high in maintenance, requiring regular resealing. Sometimes as frequently as every 6 months, depending on how often you cook. Marble countertops are also particularly prone to scratches, soiling and chipping.
Need help with your next remodel? We can help! We are The Builder’s Choice for all your projects! Stop in today at 2411 7th ST NW, Rochester, MN 55901 or give us a call at 507-285-1109
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