Choosing A Stone Countertop for Your Kitchen: Granite vs. Marble vs. Quartz vs. Soapstone – The Pros and Cons
The countertop material you select for your kitchen is an important decision. You need to consider both functionality and appearance. We want you to be fully satisfied with your choice, which is why we have compiled the pros and cons of the following countertop stones; granite, soapstone, marble, and quartz.
Pros
As the natural stone with the widest color range, granite countertops can meet a variety of styles and interiors. Granite offers a hard surface that is highly resistant to heat, scratches, and stains.
Cons
Since granite countertops are considered porous, they should be sealed in order to protect the stone. Liquids that are spilled on a granite countertop can be absorbed by the stone if not properly sealed. While strong, granite can be broken if heavy objects fall on it.
Pros
Marble is a natural stone perfect for those with unique taste because no two marble countertops will have identical veining. Marble is considered heat resistant, allowing you to place hot pots and pans on the surface without worrying about damage.
Cons
Some considered marble to be high-maintenance. Mable countertops are considered highly-porous, which means they can stain or “etch” easily and are prone to damage from acidic items, such as an orange or other citrus fruit. Oils can also seep into marble causing stains.
Pros
Soapstone is a gorgeous natural stone comprised of chlorite, magnesite, and dolomite. Due to the soapstone’s composition, no two slabs are the same. The fact that soapstone is less porous than other stones, you don’t need to worry about liquids seeping into the stone. Soapstone is heat resistant, making it ideal with kitchens.
Cons
Despite the soapstone’s hard surface, it can be susceptible to damage from heavy items being dropped on it. In addition to damage from dropped items, soapstone can be susceptible to scratching from knives, so we always recommend you use a cutting board.
Pros
Quartz is a man-made stone that is available in a large variety of colors (unlike natural stones). The engineered product looks luxurious and offers a strong, non-porous surface. It is resistant to scratches and stains, and it doesn’t require an annual seal. Since this is a man-made stone, it can be custom fit in any shape, size, and color.
Cons
Quartz countertops are not incredibly heat-resistant, so you will need to use caution when cooking in the kitchen. Be sure to have somewhere other than the countertop to put items to avoid any damage to your man-made stone countertop.
Stone Countertop Experts
Ultimately, when you are selecting the right countertop for your kitchen or bathrooms, select the type of countertop that meets your needs and style. If you know you and your family are prone to spills and drops, consider a stronger material. If you usually gentle on your counters, select the countertop that best matches your personality. We have a range of soapstone countertops, quartz countertops, marble countertops, and granite countertops available for you to choose from.
If you have questions about man-made stone countertops and natural stone countertops, stop by our showroom located at 890 Lafayette Rd in Seabrook, NH, where you can speak to an expert fabricator/installer and view countertop materials in person.