What are your countertop options?
When choosing the perfect countertop for your kitchen or bathroom, you have various options to consider. Some popular materials include granite, quartzite, marble, and quartz. Each option has unique benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to research and determine which will best meet your needs and preferences. Each surface has pros and cons; let’s explore the options.
Types of Natural Stone
Granite and quartzite are durable and natural stones resistant to scratches and heat, while marble offers a classic and elegant look but requires more maintenance. Granite is a beautiful natural stone for your kitchen countertops. There are so many color and design choices. Also, granite is a pretty hard surface. Therefore, granite is an excellent choice for most homeowners.
One of the most exquisite natural stones is quartzite. The beauty of this stone is in the exciting natural rock formation. The color variations run the gamut from marble-like tones to deep blues and greens. Also, quartzite is harder than granite. This natural stone is quarried from the earth, similar to granite.
Marble is a softer natural stone, and there will be some upkeep. As an example, the marble should be sealed regularly. But this is more for maintenance than precaution. You must be very careful with marble with citrus or vinegar because the acids are corrosive to natural stone.
Natural stone countertops are offered in several different finishes; polished, honed/matte, and leathered/brushed. The honed/matte finish is among the most popular with designers and architects.
Quartz or Dekton for Countertops
Quartz is a low-maintenance and non-porous material resistant to stains and scratches. It’s easy to clean and low maintenance. If you want a virtually indestructible kitchen work surface, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better option than quartz, and it doesn't require re-sealing like granite or marble. Several products on the market for quartz are stain-resistant, while Dekton is stainproof.
What Is Dekton? Dekton is made from a proprietary blend of natural quartz stone, porcelain, and glass. These raw materials are fused and compressed under high pressure to create a slab material that is very dense and compact. Compactness is one of Dekton's key selling points.
Quartz is vulnerable to heat; Dekton is not. Quartz often becomes discolored when exposed to the sun, whereas Dekton is UV-proof. Quartz shouldn't chip, while Dekton is known to be vulnerable to chips and even splitting.
Choosing your countertops depends on your style, budget, and lifestyle. Working with an interior designer alleviates the guesswork in selecting finishes and allows you to discover tailored solutions to their design dilemmas.
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