If you’re ready to upgrade the look of a kitchen, bathroom, or bar area in your home—your countertops are one of the main areas that you need to consider. While there are many countertop materials to choose from, some of the most popular options are natural stone. The types of stone countertops that are available make it easy to find one that fits your décor, lifestyle, and budget.
Natural stone countertop materials offer a wide range of aesthetic choices. Some are very easy to clean and maintain, while others can be more challenging. Some are very affordable when compared to other countertop materials, while others require a more substantial investment. Read on to learn more about the five most common types of stone countertops.
Which Types of Stone Countertops Suit Your Home?
Kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects are great ways to get more enjoyment out of your home while also increasing its value. Countertops are an aesthetic element of remodeling projects in these areas that can help you achieve stunning results. Still, it’s essential to make sure that you get a countertop that you can live with over the long term, as well as choose an option that fits your budget for the project.
Quartz
The most popular countertop material that we sell, quartz is non-porous, durable, and eco-friendly. Quartz countertops are manufactured with 95% ground natural quartz mixed with 5% polymer resins. They can be damaged by excessive heat but are otherwise easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Additionally, their appearance is also customizable, which may make quartz a more appealing option than granite.
Granite
Granite is one of the most popular types of stone countertops. It is resistant to heat and scratches and can sparkle with some regular maintenance. Granite is also available in a wide range of prices and color options and is an excellent choice for heavily used areas. Corners and edges are prone to chipping, but they can be repaired by a professional.
Soapstone
Like granite and quartzite, soapstone is resistant to heat and chemicals. Unlike those other materials, it is subject to scratches. So, while it is easy to clean, it can be challenging to maintain. On top of that, soapstone tends to be more expensive and is available in fewer color options.
Limestone
Limestone is a natural stone product that gives you an aesthetic option without the heavy veining that is found in other options. It resists heat well, but it is subject to scratches and dings. It also tends to retain stains more than other natural stone options. Limestone is an attractive option from a design perspective. Still, the downsides should be weighed in your decision—especially if you are considering it for a high-traffic or heavily used area.
Marble
Marble is a classic choice, and it is prized for its beauty. It is heat resistant, but it does scratch easily, and it cannot be cleaned with harsh chemicals. One benefit that marble offers that makes it attractive to homeowners is the fact that it takes on a patina over time. Other homeowners find the maintenance and upkeep to be more trouble than the look is worth.
How We Can Help
If you’re shopping for natural stone countertops for your kitchen, bathroom, or bar area, trust the experts at Special Additions. We invite you to contact us anytime to learn about the material options that we have available. Take advantage of our experience and expertise in kitchen and bathroom design, and we’ll help you achieve the space of your dreams during your next remodeling project.