Countertop Materials – 5 Great Choices
With so many countertop materials available today, choosing the one that’s right for your project can be a challenge. This choice can represent a large financial investment and one that you will live with for quite a few years due to the durability of many of these materials.
In this brief overview we will cover five countertop materials that are popular right now with our customers at Coufar Granite & Marble.
Countertop materials cover a full range from laminates to solids and are either natural or man-made. The materials we'll cover here are known as a solid surface. All of these materials have pros and cons. Some can be used anywhere while others may not hold up to the harsh use and environment of the kitchen. Other things to consider are maintenance, wear and chip resistance and resistance to staining.
Marble
Marble is crystallized limestone. It is a natural material that has been used by man for many years. It is a softer material which makes it easier to mold but this also makes it susceptible to chips and cracks.
Marble is porous and can absorb liquids that cause stains and bacteria. Acids like lemon juice and vinegar will etch the surface.
Colors available include creamy whites, yellows, greens, blacks, neutrals, soft oranges and pinks.
While marble is a favorite for rolling dough it may not be the best choice for a full kitchen. A possible option to get the best of both worlds might be to dedicate an island with a marble top as a workstation and use other materials for the remaining surfaces.
Places where a marble countertop works well include bathrooms, pass bars, tabletops and other furniture pieces.
Limestone
Limestone is a natural stone which is soft and porous. It shares many of the characteristics of marble. It is more porous than marble and requires proper sealing and maintenance to prevent stains.
Limestone has a beautiful creamy color.
It can be used in the same locations as marble and is a great accent material. Limestone is usually not recommended for the kitchen because of stain concerns.
Quartz
Quartz is a man-made material. It is made from crushed stone and resin. It is a very strong material and is also non-porous. It is highly resistant to chips, scratches and stains. Bleach and harsh chemicals may harm the surface. Quartz countertops do not require sealing.
There is a large variety of colors and patterns available in quartz countertops. Some even mimic the natural colors and patterns of marble and granite. There are also bold color choices that nature can't offer.
Quartz can be used as a countertop material in almost any location. The only place where it may not hold up as well is outdoors due to possible fading from sunlight.
Quartzite
Not to be confused with quartz, quartzite is a natural stone. It is very hard and resistant to chipping and scratches. It should be sealed to resist stains. Quartzite often has the appearance of marble and the durability of granite.
Quartzite colors are usually grey or white with brown or black highlights.
Quartzite is a great countertop material for kitchens and bathrooms.
Granite
Granite is a natural rock which is harder than marble. It is very durable and is resistant to scratches and chips. It isn't as porous as marble but it should be sealed to help resist stains. Even with many new alternatives it is still one of the most popular countertop surfaces.
Granite is available in blacks, whites, greens, reds, blues pale pink and golden browns.
Granite can be used in any application including outdoor installations.
Which Countertop Material Should I Choose ?
Naturally, design is usually the biggest driver in this choice. Colors and patterns will narrow down the options available. But there are a few important things to keep in mind. If you want the least amount of maintenance or don't want to worry about damage or stains, go with one of the more durable materials. Also think about the future. You may love that bold red Quartz today but will you feel the same in 8-10 years?
Whether you know the exact look you are going for or need help exploring all of the options available, we can help you at Coufar. Call us today at 203-331-1227 to schedule a free consultation and get started designing your perfect countertop.
Coufar Granite & Marble - 203-331-1227