Countertop shopping is one of the most fun and impactful aspects of remodeling or building a new space. Granite, marble, and quartz all have their perks, but the best choice depends on where you’re putting them and how much wear and tear you’re expecting. From the countertop experts at Castorena’s, here’s a breakdown of all three so you can make the best pick for your project.
Granite, Marble, and Quartz – What’s the Difference?
The choice between granite, marble, and quartz for custom countertops is not always straightforward. Each has its own strengths relative to the others. Here’s how they stack up:
Granite:
- Durable and Heat-Resistant: Perfect for high-traffic kitchens where hot pans might land.
- One-of-a-Kind Patterns: Every slab is unique, so yours will truly be yours.
- Maintenance Alert: It requires periodic sealing to keep it looking sharp, but it’s worth the effort for its resilience.
Marble:
- Classic Elegance: If you want sophistication and timeless style, marble is the way to go.
- Charming Wear: While it’s prone to scratches and stains, marble develops a beautiful patina over time—kind of like a vintage wine, but for countertops.
- Best for Low-Traffic Areas: It shines in spaces like bathrooms or as an accent in the kitchen, but not necessarily where your kids might spill juice every day.
Quartz:
- Engineered for Low Maintenance: Quartz is made from a blend of natural stone and resin, giving you a highly-customizable surface with hardly any fuss.
- Stain-Proof & Non-Porous: With its resin coat, no sealing is required upon installation. It naturally resists stains, which makes it a top choice for busy, high-impact areas.
- Endless Options: From colors to patterns, quartz offers more variety than a box of crayons, so you’re sure to find something that matches your style.
The Best Surface for Different Types of Rooms
Kitchens
It’s no secret: with kitchens, durability is key. Granite and quartz are the usual picks, thanks to their toughness and resistance to heat, stains, and scratches. Granite, specifically, is great at handling everything from a hot pan to the kids’ rogue juice antics. Marble isn’t off the table, so to speak—it can work beautifully as a statement piece, like a showstopping kitchen island.
Bathrooms
Marble countertops are the definition of luxury, and this is especially true in bathrooms. Its high-end look commands the space, making it feel more spa-like. But for vanities or areas where you’re looking for something with a smaller price tag, granite or quartz are great options as well.
Commercial Spaces
In a business setting, you want something that combines durability with style. Quartz and granite are perfect for this, and quartz is especially great for those who want a no-maintenance surface that still looks polished. Marble, on the other hand, can create a luxurious, elegant vibe in areas like lobby counters, but you might want to avoid it in high-traffic spots.
Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor kitchens and bars need to be able to handle the elements. Granite is the best bet here. It’s resistant to UV rays, rain, and other weather conditions, making it ideal for those outdoor kitchens. Quartz, on the other hand, isn’t the best choice for the great outdoors, as it’s sensitive to UV light and could discolor over time. Stick to granite for your outdoor spaces to ensure they stand the test of time.
Edges
Choosing the right countertop edge goes a long way in setting the tone. If you prefer something sleek and minimalist, straight edges are the way to go; they give your stone a clean, modern vibe and let the natural patterns shine.
For homes with little ones, eased edges are a smart choice. They’re subtly rounded, making them safer while still keeping things stylish. Bullnose edges bring a soft, traditional feel to the space, offering a rounded look that’s always in fashion. And if you want something more ornate, ogee edges are a luxurious touch, though they do come with a slightly higher price tag for the level of precision and skilled labor, and they are somewhat less durable compared to the more robust edges.
Other Factors to Consider
When choosing your countertop, it’s important to consider several factors beyond just the material. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Thickness
The general standard for countertop thickness is 1.25 inches. That said, thicker slabs can make a bolder, more obvious statement. Thicker countertops are heavier and more expensive but they are also more durable. Thinner countertops are less expensive but also less durable.
Height
The standard kitchen counter height is 36 inches. It might be worth considering slightly higher surfaces for bar-height seating or more comfortable cooking. Custom heights work well for vanities or commercial spaces. In this way, you can enhance ergonomics and function.
Material Weight
Granite and marble are heavy and require a solid base for support. Quartz is lighter and easier to install, but still needs sturdy cabinetry and internal support structures.
Finish
Polished finishes are sleek, easy to clean, and reflective but can show fingerprints. Alternatively, honed finishes give a matte, natural look and hide imperfections but may need more frequent cleaning.
Find the Perfect Countertop
Simply put, seeing is believing. Requesting samples or visiting showrooms lets you get a true feel for the stone in your space. Contact us with questions or come visit our showroom today!