GRANITE
Durability
Granite is a naturally hard stone that will last for many years, making it an excellent choice for areas that experience frequent use. It holds up beautifully under wear and tear in a kitchen or bathroom, and it is also a kid-friendly option because it is difficult to damage.
Unique Look
Each granite slab is unlike any other because the stone is mined from the earth and then cut into individual slabs, which means your granite countertops will be something truly special. There is no way to duplicate the natural beauty of the stone. Granite offers many different colors to choose from as well as a variety of patterns such as veins, specks, and swirls. The appearance of the stone even changes throughout the day as different lighting plays off the small crystals in the material.
Higher Home Value
Installing granite countertops in the kitchen often increases the value of a house. Many home buyers appreciate the luxurious feel granite adds to a kitchen, which is one of the most important rooms in the house. Granite is not a trend. It is a timeless, classic choice and is likely to be appreciated for years by many people, which makes it a wonderful addition to any home and a great investment.
Easy to Clean
Homeowners love how easy granite is to clean. All you need to maintain the beauty and quality of the stone is a high-quality granite cleaner that is specifically formulated for natural stone. The surface is smooth, resistant to staining, and will not absorb liquids, all of which makes granite a simple to maintain option.
Enhanced Appearance
Granite countertops enhance the visual appeal of a kitchen through the rich natural beauty of the stone. The range of colors makes it easy to find something that matches your existing décor, including the cabinets, walls, and flooring. Granite countertops also support a range of sink style options, from drop in and undermount sinks to vessel and farm sinks. They often become the centerpiece of a kitchen and can visually take the room to the next level. Thanks to the stone’s high durability, stunning granite countertops look beautiful for years, and your kitchen remains a masterpiece.
MARBLE
The color and unique veining of marble has made it one of the most sought after natural stones. The beauty of marble comes from the way it is created. It is formed from either limestone or dolomite rock that is subjected to extreme heat and pressure. These conditions cause the rock to transform, creating the distinctive veining that defines marble.If you are considering marble for your countertops, it’s important to look at both the advantages and disadvantages of this beautiful material.
What are the advantages? Marble is a very beautiful stone and inherently elegant. Its white brightness cannot be matched by granite. Because it is a widely available stone, it is often one of the less expensive natural stone options. The beauty and value placed on marble countertops also means that it will add value to your overall home. However, there are some disadvantages to installing marble. Due to the soft nature of the material, it is more prone to both scratching and staining. It is important that cutting boards or other barriers are used on your marble countertop. Although sealing your marble countertop can help protect it, it is still important to be cautious with spills, especially products with an acidic nature, as they can result in permanent stains. This is why marble may be a more ideal surface for bathrooms.
The classic beauty of marble can make these countertops a showstopper in your home. As long as you take the necessary steps to protect your marble from potential scratching or staining, it can remain a beautiful focal point in your home for years to come.
QUARTZITE
Quartzite is a very hard metamorphic rock that originated as sandstone. Through a process of high heating and pressurization sandstone is transformed into Quartzite, an extremely strong and durable natural stone. When heated, individual quartz pieces recrystallize giving it a beautiful and decorative sparkling pattern. Quartzite is ideal for any countertop surface due to its strength and long-lasting composition. Consider quartzite countertops for its strength, beauty, and overall durability.
SOAPSTONE
Soapstone is a natural stone, like granite, that is quarried. It’s composed mostly of mineral talc, which makes it quite soft, but soapstone used for countertops typically has higher percentages of quartz in it, which makes it harder and more suitable as a kitchen surface.
What are the advantages? Beautiful natural grey color, smooth matte feel, resistant to etching from acids, scratches can be sanded or oiled away; great surface for making pastries.
However, this requires maintenance; not as heat resistant as granite; not impervious to dents and scratches; regular oiling and buffing recommended; the color darkens with age (which may be a pro for some).
*photos of Soapstone coming soon*
QUARTZ
Gemini Stone is a proud distributor of the following quartz companies plus many more. Sign up for a consultation today!
