When it comes to choosing the best countertops for your kitchen and bathrooms, you’ve got a lot to consider. As two of the most visited and visible rooms in any home, it’s important that you select materials that will not only reflect your taste, but can perform well for years under daily use.
Stone countertops bring dimension, along with effortless elegance, to any space. Whatever your design needs are, you can find beautiful options to fit your lifestyle and budget. But do you know the difference between engineered and natural stone countertops? We’ll help you distinguish them below.
The Difference Between Engineered and Natural Stone Countertops
Natural stone countertops are made from stone extracted from the earth, sliced into thick slabs, and finally shaped into the perfect pieces for your countertop.
This category includes granite, marble, soapstone, and quartzite, some of the most popular choices available. The innate variation in color, swirls, and gradient make these types of countertops especially striking, creating a true statement in the center of your home.
Engineered stone, in contrast, is made from ground natural stone and a combination of resins and pigments. This process delivers a non-porous and more uniform result. Manufactured quartz, for instance, is a great example of engineered stone’s versatility for countertops. Whether you want a dark and sophisticated look or something more bright and cheerful, engineered stone offers a range of shades and finishes to truly personalize any interior.
What are the Best Countertops for Kitchens and Bathrooms?
That, of course, depends on your needs, but as a general rule, it’s best to keep certain natural stone countertops, like marble, out of the kitchen. In a kitchen, they’re more likely to encounter liquids that could stain the surface or acids that can etch into it. They also see impact from knives, plates, cups, and other objects over time.
If you love the look of marble countertops, they’re better suited for the bathroom, where they’re less likely to encounter these hazards.
Other natural stone, like granite and quartzite, are great for kitchens because of their durability and impermeability.
Natural stone countertops are easy to clean and only require occasional treatment to maintain. With proper care, they can look as good on as new for years. And as an additional bonus, natural stone countertops can add value to your home when you’re ready to sell.
For more information on the difference between engineered and natural stone countertops, contact us for a consultation.