The Difference Between Marble and Quartz Countertops
Marble and Quartz are all appealing and functional materials for any kitchen and bathroom countertops. They are loved by most home owners since they are durable and add beauty and value to homes. Marble countertops are made entirely from natural stone whereas quartz countertops have partial additives. Both materials have their own unique flecks, grains, veins and colour variations. As much as they share a lot in common, they are unique in their own ways.
Colorful Quartz
Quartz has most of the qualities that are in granite but it is only 90% natural. the 10% is made of resin and dyes to give them the unique colours and pigmentation. Without the natural colours, quartz is somehow dull and unappealing. All the same, the composition of quartz is uniform and hence doesn’t have many natural flecks, grains and veins when compared to marble.
The good
• Quartz achieves the same lifespan as granite and concrete but it is quite more forgiving than both, quartz will not chip or crack easily. It might not feel hard when compared to granite, but you can be assured that it can take a hit or two.
• Quartz being a manufactured product is very attractive. The manufacturing process facilitates for a much wider range of colours to choose from when compared to natural stones such as marble and granite. The appearance of the final product is something that oozes luxury and class. The depth in it is something that can be produced on a natural stone.
• Quartz is a non-porous material and thus it can resist staining way better than granite and marble. It will stand up to wine, juice, tomato sauce, oil, coffee and many other types of stains that characterize the kitchen. Additionally, since it is non-porous, it will not harbour bacteria – non need for regular sterilization.
The bad
• You have already anticipated this one; the price. For all those benefits, you don’t expect engineered stone to come cheap. On estimate, you will get quartz retailing at 80-140 pounds per square foot. Well, if you were looking to have a quartz countertop on a budget, then that budget will not be small.
• As much as it will look good, you can’t achieve the same natural looks like you will get with granite, slate, marble or wood. You will notice the engineered stone quite easily. Although this is not necessarily a con, some home owners love the premium look of natural stone.
Luxurious Marble
Marble has been used for countertops for a long time now. Initially, it was first used to make stone carvings, but somehow found its way to our kitchens and homes. Marble countertops are structurally sound but less forgiving when compared to quartz. Marble is porous and sensitive to acids and most of the kitchen liquids and chemical home cleaners. Stains such as wine and fruit juice can stain marble countertops if not wiped quickly. To protect it and make it more durable, a high-grade sealant is necessary to keep the surface from acids and chemicals. Most manufacturers will install the sealant when requested.
The good
• The natural Beauty – marble has this classic and white brightness that is not available in quartz.
• Naturally cool Temperature – Marble is wonderful for baking and pastry, since it is naturally cool
• There when you need it – Unlike quartz, marble is readily available from nearly any stone fabricator or stone yard.
The bad
• Soft-core – Marble is prone to scratching especially when rubbed with an acidic medium. Leaving a lemon slice overnight on a marble countertop is enough to leave a mark on the marble.
• Staining – Marble easily gets stained from household juices and wines.