Which kitchen countertops are the best, Marble, granite, quartz, or quartzite? When selecting countertops, these are the most frequently asked questions. Quartz is more aesthetically pleasing and easier to maintain than granite, which is considered more durable and natural-looking. In this post you’ll see Which kitchen countertops are the best for the money.
Which Kitchen Countertops Are the Best for Money, Desing, Durability
Quartzite is one of the most durable kitchen countertops, it’s simple to maintain and resembles marble, whereas marble is elegant and heat resistant. During the decision-making process, it is important to consider heat resistance, stain resistance, maintenance requirements, and cost variations. To help you decide which is best for your needs, we’ve listed some of the similarities and differences between these materials and some advantages and disadvantages.
And what are they? (Best Kitchen Countertops for the Money)
- In quarries worldwide, granite is mined as a natural product. After being polished, it is then cut into manageable slabs for installation.
- Quartz is one of the best and most popular countertops for kitchens created artificially by combining roughly 95% crushed quartz with 5% coloring pigment and 5% resin as a binder.
- Another naturally occurring material is marble, which starts as limestone and hardens over time under the heat and pressure of the earth as the calcite crystals grow and interlock.
- Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock that is quarried similarly to granite, despite having a similar appearance to quartz. Sandstone is the starting material and the final product results from intense heat and pressure.
Durability -- (Best Kitchen Countertops for the Money )
- Granite tends to withstand more because it is a natural stone; for instance, it can withstand heat well and is somewhat scratch resistant, but we still advise using a cutting board because it can be more prone to chips. In terms of the stone’s strength, different colors also have different characteristics.
- Before setting any hot objects on quartz, it is best to use a hot pad or trivet because quartz is a little more sensitive.
- Like granite, marble is also heat resistant, making it a fantastic choice for both the kitchen and bathroom since both can be exposed to heat. For example, leaving your curling iron on the counter will stay intact. Due to its porous nature, it is not scratch-resistant and may be more susceptible to stains.
- Another choice for a hard work surface is quartzite; you can cut vegetables right on a quartzite countertop without risking damage, and it is thought to be heat resistant.
Any of these countertops will last for a very long time with proper care and offer a lovely prep and entertainment area.
Maintenance
- Quartz is a great option if you want a countertop that requires little maintenance. Like granite, it does not require sealing and is simple to keep clean. Because it is non-porous and simple to clean up any bacteria or virus strains that may have settled on the countertop, it is also simpler to keep germ-free.
- Granite is more porous than other materials, which makes it easier for liquids to absorb, which can result in stains that last a lifetime. It is always best to wash dishes in the sink, whether clean or dirty and empty any liquids. Depending on how often you use harsh abrasive cleaners, we advise having granite countertops sealed every few years. Choosing a professional overdoing it yourself is an option.
- Although this should be confirmed when buying your slab, some marble countertops require sealing annually or at least every few years. Cutting boards should be used to keep natural juices, like those from tomatoes, from soaking into the counter because they are more likely to stain. Spills should also be cleaned up right away because of this.
- Quartzite, similar to quartz, requires only warm, soapy water to clean up most typical spills.
Home's value
Whichever of these countertops you select will instantly increase the value of your house. Having one of these countertops, according to many realtors, actually draws in potential homebuyers. It is a sure bet to increase the value of your house, and it will always pay off.
Other useful information and facts
Additional considerations to bear in mind as you choose between these materials and decide which is best for you are as follows:
- Since granite is directly mined, polished, and sold without additional processing, it is more environmentally friendly. It is frequently the most affordable choice as well. Due to the granite’s movement, slabs of granite can vary greatly. You can specifically choose where it will be placed in the home, such as the island, and we always advise choosing granite by the slab.
- Since pigment can be added when quartz is created, it can be found in many colors.
- Although marble can be expensive, its flexibility makes achieving those unique curves or turns on a countertop easier.
- When iron oxide is present, quartzite can have pink or red tones in addition to its typical white or grey color. It is very adaptable and can be used throughout the house. In most cases, quartzite will cost the most or be comparable to marble.
What is best for you, your house, your finances, and your style in the end? You can’t go wrong with any choice because they all have advantages and disadvantages.
