Kitchens are the most popular rooms for renovations, and they are also one of the most used rooms in the house. Because of this, it’s important to consider many different factors before settling on what is best for your renovation. For instance, many homeowners choose to install new countertops when renovating their kitchens. However, not all materials are made equal and some will be better than others when it comes to your specific needs and tastes. To help you understand more, let’s take a look at the greatest differences between two of the most popular kitchen countertop materials: quartz and marble.
1. The Material
To start off, it’s important to understand these materials, where they come from, and what makes them so special. Marble is a naturally occurring stone that is created when high heat metamorphosizes either limestone or dolomite rock. Marble countertops have a classic look and today they remain one of the most sought after countertop materials.
Quartz on the other hand is a man-made product that is created when natural stone is fused with a polymer resin. Quartz countertops are quickly rising in popularity due to their durability and elegant appearance.
2. Appearance
When choosing the best countertop for your kitchen, appearance is a huge factor to consider. Overall, because it is manufactured, quartz countertops tend to have more consistency overall when it comes to color and pattern. Quartz can also very closely mimic the appearance of natural stone, making it a solid choice if you still want a natural look. Alternatively, quartz can be found in bolder colors such as red and blue, allowing you a broader variety to choose from.
Marble, however, still remains popular due to its classic appearance and the ability to add a timeless elegance to any room. Because it is a natural stone, each slab will be uniquely colored and veined. This makes it a good choice for those looking for a one of a kind appearance that helps set their kitchens apart from the rest. Marble countertops are an investment that can also help increase your home’s overall value, which is another factor to keep in mind.
3. Care and Durability
Another thing to consider is the amount of care that a countertop will require, as well as its overall durability. If you don’t have a lot of time to spend maintaining your countertops, quartz is the lower maintenance option. Quartz countertops are both easy to clean and more durable, making it a good choice for busy homeowners or those with children. Because quartz is not porous, it won’t require additional sealing, and it can easily be cleaned with soap and water. It also won’t hold germs or bacteria. Additionally, it’s nearly heat resistant, and it won’t chip or dent as easily if it is impacted or cut.
Marble countertops can stand up relatively well against heat; however, it can be prone to stains in acidic substances that are left on it. These countertops will also require additional sealing to ensure that they stay in prime condition. Many stone experts recommend re-sealing marble every three to six months to preserve their quality and color. If your heart is set on marble, you would be wise to consider these additional costs so that you can factor them into the budget.
Which is Best for You?
Ultimately the right countertop for you will depend on your style, the amount of TLC you can provide, and your specific needs. While quartz countertops can be more durable and available in a wider variety of colors, marble still remains a popular choice that is worth keeping in mind.
If you’d like more information on these stones, reach out to a local custom stone fabricator to learn more about what they can offer and what they would recommend for you and your home.