Quartz, Granite, or Marble?
What are the differences between Quartz, Granite and Marble kitchen countertops?
When deciding which option to choose for your kitchen or bathroom countertops, homeowners should take into consideration the durability and upkeep of each.
Quartz: Quartz is an engineered material comprised of roughly 94-98% crushed quartz and visual enhancers such as glass/sparkles in an epoxy resin. Because it’s a man-made product it has the highest price tag of the three solid surface counters we carry, but is also the most stain resistant, lightweight, and easiest to transport due to its comparative flexibility (Please do not test this. You can still break quartz if you twist it or smack it with sharp or heavy things. You’ll just end up with busted quartz and a sad bank account). Quartz is a non-porous surface which means it’s easier to keep countertops relatively bacteria-free and sealing is optional; however, due to its epoxy composition quartz can be damaged by excessive heat. Always use a pad, trivet, or thick cloth to rest hot cookware on to avoid scorching, melting, or burning your quartz countertops. Quartz is also more susceptible to color change from UV radiation which means it should be used in an indoor setting rather than outdoors to avoid yellowing or bleaching. Don’t store items that can rust on any quartz, but especially light coloured quartzes.
Granite: Granite is a naturally occurring stone which is sourced from quarries all over the world, cut to standard sizes, and then machined to standard thicknesses and brought to a high polish. It’s then sealed to protect the stone before transportation. Because it’s a natural stone it will be inherently heat and scratch resistant which makes it an excellent choice for kitchens and often adds to home resale value. Granite is also naturally UV resistant which makes it the perfect stone for outdoor kitchens or barbecues. It tends to have more texture and wilder patterning than the man-made stones with potential for minor pitting or pockets, and each slab will be unique. Any natural stone is somewhat porous, and will need a sealant coat put over top periodically which is relatively easy for the average homeowner to accomplish. See our post on sealing for more information.
Marble: Marble is also a natural stone and subject to natural variation. This is the softest and most porous of the countertop materials we have on offer, and as such requires the greatest amount of sealing and upkeep (we recommend 4-6 times per year); however, it is one of the most naturally beautiful stones out there. Marbles tend to have a translucent look, flowing patterns, and soft colours which man-made quartzes try to mimic. We would only recommend marble countertops in a kitchen for those homeowners who are willing to put in the extra work and time to seal it as needed and keep them clean and free of staining agents, but it is an excellent choice for bathroom vanities, tabletops, shelves, ledges, or dresser tops.