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TOP 5 Types of Kitchen Stone Countertops

Choosing a natural stone countertop or an engineered stone countertop for your kitchen, bathroom, or other areas of your home can be a major decision. We take a look at the top 5 types of kitchen stone countertops to consider.

As a stone fabricator, we recommend you think about how much you will be using the surface and how it will affect the look and feel of your kitchen. There are different materials to choose from and if you are buying a new or remodeling an old kitchen countertop, it might be wise to consider a durable stone as there are many benefits to choosing one of the stone countertop materials we’ve listed below as your next countertop option.

Lets take a look at 5 of the most popular types of kitchen countertop materials, as well as several of the benefits of each.

Quartz – Attractive Durability 

If style and durability are important to you, it might be a good idea to use a quartz countertop in your project. It would take a lot of effort to scratch, stain, or otherwise damage this countertop material. The material is non-porous and won’t hold on to viruses or bacteria which means keeping your surfaces clean is a breeze. Though, the benefits do come at a higher cost than other materials.

There’s a misconception that it’s an entirely natural stone. This stone is actually what’s called an “engineered stone”, made from crushed quartz and a resin filler. Compared to granite, which is available in fewer colors, or marble, which is less durable, quartz countertops are often seen as a more reliable and beautiful choice.

In-Home Care For Quartz Countertops

Quartz is almost maintenance-free as it’s non-porous, heat, scratch, and stain-resistant. It also doesn’t require any extra sealing. Quartz is a great choice in high-traffic businesses or busy homes. 

Transitional Kitchen Design Massachusetts

Quartzite – Breathtaking Beauty 

When sandstone rich in quartz gets subjected to a process known as metamorphism, it forms a rock called Quartzite. Well known for its longevity and strength, quartzite is fast become a top option in many homes. Although looks are subjective, quartzite is usually considered aesthetically pleasing.

If you’re looking to create a unique kitchen, Quartzite may be a perfect option for you as no two slabs of the stone are the same. 

Quartzite’s gorgeous colors and patterns usually have lighter colors and can sometimes be confused with marble. 

Super White Calacatta

In-Home Care For Quartzite Countertops

Metropolitan would have sealed the stone before installation. Additional treatments are recommended and may be needed for more porous stones. Liquids such as water should not absorb into the surface of the countertop, if they stop beading, this clearly indicates that the sealant should be reapplied. Additional treatments are the responsibility of the owner. Quartzite should be cleaned with a neutral cleaner which we carry at here Metropolitan. 

Marble – Flat Out Luxury

Marble is one of the most popular choices among homeowners looking for a beautiful kitchen countertop. Its classic appearance makes it ideal for any style of decorating.

Another natural stone that is often used in kitchen countertops is a marble. Since there are no two marble slabs exactly the same, each marble countertop will be completely unique.

Although highly valued, marble may not be the best choice for kitchens because of its preference for staining and scratching. Newer marble sealers can reduce maintenance, but it is a much more “sensitive” stone than granite or soapstone. 

Custom Inset Cabinets

In-Home Care For Marble Countertops

A sealant helps protect the stone from liquids and foods that can damage the stone, including acidic fruits, wine, and oils. 

How often you reseal the countertop can vary. To test the seal, place a few drops of water on the surface of the stone and wait for it to bead up. If water does not bead the surface, reapply the sealer. 

Granite – Strong And Simple

Granite is the countertop material of choice when there were no cost issues to think about. In a kitchen, granite slabs are the epitome of elegance. The beauty of granite countertops makes a modest kitchen seem like a luxury space.

Granite is one of the most popular natural stone choices among homeowners because it’s durable, easy to clean, and comes with many different finishes that make it look like an expensive piece of art. It is a naturally colored stone with no man-made materials mixed in. Granite is made up of small pieces of sedimentary rock (basalt, quartz, and sand) that form visually complex relatively flat slabs. Granite also offers great heat resistance so you don’t have to worry about your food burning when cooking over it. 

In-Home Care For Granite Countertops

The diamond-like hardness of granite makes it rare to see abrasions, stains, or heat damage. Daily cleaning includes only mild detergent soap and water to keep the durable countertop in good shape. 

Norwood Showroom Display

Soapstone – Ageless Elegance

In historic homes, soapstone is often seen as a countertop and sink material. In certain kitchen styles, a soapstone countertop can be very attractive because it takes on an antique-like patina over time. But in the modern home, where we are more likely to have stainless steel appliances or granite counters, soapstone has another role: It’s beautiful when used for decorative purposes.

The first thing you need to know about soapstone is that it comes from volcanic ash deposits found deep underground. The stone itself is composed of minerals such as feldspars, pyroxenes, and amphiboles. These materials combine with water to form a soft rock called hydrated silicate lava. When this mixture cools down, it becomes hard enough to carve into various shapes.

This natural look blends well in both traditional homes and modern abodes, if you like patina, a natural stone like Soapstone might be right for your next project! 

In-Home Care For Soapstone Countertops

Sanding away nicks and scratches is a feature Soapstone countertops are loved for. You must oil your soapstone every few months if you want a dark look. A Soapstone owner needs to be comfortable with the appearance changing over time.

soapstone countertop boston

Conclusion

There are many types of kitchen stone countertops you can choose for your kitchen countertop material or even a bathroom countertop. Each with pros and cons. The countertop surface you choose should be considered on more than just a cost basis as you will have to live with it day to day for years to come. If you’re looking for information to help you make the right decision, please contact a member of the Metropolitan Design Team today to talk about your next project!