So many options! How do you pick the right countertop for your kitchen (or anywhere in your house)? I’ve done the research on three popular choices so you can feel confident selecting the best material for you. Let’s review our options, shall we?
Quartz
You’ve probably heard of this material because it’s super popular now a days. It’s fame comes well deserved because it is durable and gorgeous. Here are some quick facts on quartz:
-Durable (heat, scratch and stain resistant) and easy to maintain/clean (no sealing needed).
-It’s not 100% natural stone so each slab is not unique – you know exactly what you’re getting when you select this product. There’s no natural variation.
-It’s so versatile and is available in so many colors. It can mimic natural stone (such as marble) or concrete, giving you the look without the maintenance. Because it can look like so many different things, it fits basically any style.
Photo sources: Cambria
Marble
We all know marble is gorgeous. Like really stunning. It’s unique movement and feel is unmatched. But all of those positives come at a cost in the form of maintenance/durability. Here are some quick notes:
-Marble is natural stone so it has unique variations – not all slabs look the same.
-It needs to be sealed to protect against absorption of unwanted elements and stains. Honed marbles usually need to be sealed over polished. It also etches/scratches somewhat easily.
-It will “patina” over time (change color), which some people like because it shows character/ doesn’t look “perfect.” Some don’t love this characteristic and would rather their countertops look new all the time.
Photo sources: left, middle, right
Granite
Granite may seem “out” but there are several reasons to not give up on it just yet. There are light granite options, but the trends in the last 15 years represent darker granites, which may make you believe that all granite is “ugly.” Here are some facts that may change your mind:
-For the most part, it is heat, stain and scratch resistant.It can be sealed to prevent it from absorbing liquids and causing stains, but it is not as soft and absorbent as marble. It is very heat resistant.
-Granite is a natural stone so not all slabs will look the same.
-It probably doesn’t fit within every style, though there are a fair amount of colors and patterns available.
Photo sources: left, middle, right
Which is Best?
Honestly, when thinking about how to pick the right countertop for you, the best choice depends on your lifestyle and what you place the highest value on. If easy maintenance is your jam, a natural stone may not be for you – quartz might serve you better. If you understand and see the beauty in natural stone (although it’s not the easiest to keep up) marble or granite are good options. Take a look at the chart for an easy comparison!
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Looking for more interior design tips? Keep on reading:
Where to Splurge and Save in Your Living Room
Storage Solutions for Every Room
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