Quartz vs. natural stone: which countertop is right for you?
When it comes to a new kitchen design, choosing the right countertop is one of the more important decisions you’ll make. Think about it: your counters are used for prepping meals, corralling ingredients, packing up leftovers, and separating groceries. Because your countertops will get a near-daily workout, you want to select the material that works best for you. We’re breaking down the pros and cons of natural stone vs. quartz to help you choose!
What is your best countertop fit?
Marble
Marble is classic and luxe. It’s also a favorite with bakers because its cool surface is excellent for rolling and kneading dough. Since it’s a natural stone, marble has unique veining with no slab exactly like another. The different species of marble come in varying colors and it can have either a polished or honed (matte) finish.
Pros: Refined and upscale aesthetic; naturally varied; works well with a range of styles from modern to rustic; timeless
Cons: Porous; prone to scratching, staining, and etching; needs to be sealed for protection
Honed Pietra gray marble countertop by Construction Resources
Quartzite
Quartzite is a type of natural stone created when sandstone is subjected to intense pressure. It mimics marble in its tonal qualities and more subdued veining. Quartzite is extremely popular right now and more widely available, so you’ll have lots of options to choose from!
Pros: More durable than marble and less prone to etching; great choice if you like the look of marble but have concerns about durability
Cons: Rise in popularity means higher pricing; needs to be sealed to prevent staining
Quartzite kitchen countertop in Villanova by Glenna Stone Interior Design; Photo by Rebecca McAlpin
Granite
Granite has been a mainstay for several years. Where it was once considered a high-end option, it’s become somewhat more affordable. Fans of granite love it for its durability and varying colors and patterns.
Pros: Hard surface with high durability and heat resistance; wide range of colors and patterns; greater availability
Cons: Also porous and requires sealing; susceptible to acids and oils and needs to be cleaned daily; some varieties are more brittle than others; certain types of granite look dated
Granite coutertops by Glenna Stone Interior Design; Photo by Betsy Barron Photography
Quartz
Quartz is an engineered stone; what does that mean? Mineral quartz is combined with resin (about 93% is quartz) to create a man-made substance. Through pressure and heat, a solid, non-porous surface is created that is one of the most durable countertops available. No worrying about wine stains or lemon etching here!
Pros: Doesn’t require sealing; lack of porosity means that it won’t harbor bacteria; can achieve a similar look to natural stone; consistent color patterns if you prefer a more uniform look; great for active cooks or families with kids because it’s low maintenance and easy to clean
Cons: Doesn’t have the unique variation of natural stone; while technology has greatly improved, a discerning eye can tell that it isn’t natural stone
Quartz countertop in a Philadelphia kitchen by Glenna Stone Interior Design; Photo by Rebecca McAlpin
In the end, it all comes down to what is important to you and what works with your dream kitchen. There are no bad choices, and we’re happy to help you select the perfect option for you!
Header image: Main Line kitchen by Glenna Stone Interior Design; Photo by Paul S. Bartholomew
________________________________________
Glenna Stone Interior Design is an award-winning Philadelphia interior design firm serving Philadelphia, the Main Line, and surrounding cities. Utilizing her background and training in interior design, architecture, and engineering, Glenna specializes in creating interiors for residential and commercial design settings. We invite you to visit our website, view our portfolio, and catch up on the latest interior design concepts on our blog!
