Countertops

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Granite comes straight from the earth and does not require much processing before it is ready to be purchased and installed in your home.  A countertop made of granite is one of the most durable and beautiful surfaces that can be found on this planet.

 There is an endless rainbow of colors to choose from, including tans, grays, gold browns, blues, whites and many more.  Granite is durable, stain and heat resistant.

Unlike marble and granite, which are quarried, polished and sold, a quartz countertop has to be manufactured.  The reason is that the quartz used for countertops is about 90% natural quartz that has been fused and mixed with about 10% polyresin.  Since these countertops are manufactured, their appearance can be customized to mimic the appearance of marble or granite.

The marble is mined and arrives at your home 100% natural.  As a classic choice for architecture, marble has been used from statues to bathrooms.  Marble often comes in various colors with wonderful veins.  When marble is free of impurities or other stones, it becomes an immaculate white.  However, it is often porous and requires frequent maintenance, making it less resistant to damage than other stones on the market.

There are three stones commonly used for countertops: Marble, Granite and Quartz.

 Which of these is best for you?  And how can you tell the difference between these materials?

 Here is a detailed analysis of the differences between granite, quartz and marble for your consideration.  This will help you narrow down your options.  Granite vs.  Marble

 Most people ask what is the difference between granite and marble?

 Compared to the diversity of colors available in granite, marble is almost always white.  However, when other minerals are present in said stone, it can acquire stripes, also called veins, of black, yellow, pink, blue or gray tones.  Marble is also brighter than granite.  Now available in today's market, there are synthetic variants including marble, glass and other variants, to make marble stronger.  But less resistant than granite.

 Quartz vs.  Marble

 Many quartz countertops are a mix of granite, marble and other stones, including natural quartz, giving it the name “Reconstituted Stone.”  While marble is natural and has few variations in its appearance.  Quartz can imitate granite and marble or have a completely different appearance.  Quartz comes in a wide range of colors and patterns.

 The main difference between quartz and marble would be a weakness.  Marble is a delicate stone that can be easily marred, making it less common in high-traffic kitchen areas and more attractive in bathrooms.

 Quartz is not damaged as easily and is less porous than marble.  So it doesn't stain as easily.

 Granite vs.  Quartz

 There are no equal sections of granite, as there are in quartz.  Both have endless color options.  However, the main difference, when it comes to the uniqueness of granite and quartz, is that granite is natural and requires no processing.  The quartz is designed in a factory, although it comes from quarry stone.  Quartz can look like granite, but if you really want something from the earth, it is better to go for granite.

 Both stones are durable and resistant to scratches and stains.  That being said, the only disadvantage of granite with quartz is that granite requires sealing every year to ensure that it does not stain or become damaged.

 Quartz does not need to be sealed.  On the other hand, if quartz is exposed to the sun for a long period, its color may fade over time and will require routine maintenance.

 To improve shine.