There’s no doubt that natural stone countertops make a beautiful addition to any living space. They’re suited for a range of décor, from simple and modern to luxurious extravagance. For the stunning results you get, natural stone is worth the investment in money, time, care, and attention. Before committing to materials or any particular look for your home, learn more about the pros and cons of natural stone countertops.
Why Choose Natural Stone Countertops?
Your kitchen and bathrooms are two of the most important areas of any home. Their design and function are integral to creating the space you want. Therefore, the countertops you choose are vital to making your kitchens and bathrooms feel stylish, welcoming, and comfortable. That’s why natural stone countertops are a popular choice when renovating or building a new property.
Popular natural stone options include:
Granite
Quartzite
Soapstone
Marble
Limestone/Travertine
While their sturdiness and elegance make them incredibly appealing, the wide variety in shade, texture, and distinctive characteristics in each type of stone also enables you to find a look that best suits your taste and lifestyle. Of course, some types of natural stone are better for kitchens vs. bathrooms and vice versa. We’ll explore that distinction a little more below.
The Pros and Cons of Natural Stone Countertops
Keep the following in mind when considering natural stone countertops for your home.
Pro: Effortless and elegant. The beauty of natural stone provides a classic, sophisticated touch to any kitchen or bathroom.
Con: No perfect matching. Naturally-occurring variations in color, tone, and striations are part of what make each countertop unique, but they cannot be matched exactly for a totally uniform look.
Pro: Durability. Heat, cold, and moisture are no problem for a natural stone, as they can withstand extremes in temperature and are easy to clean after a spill.
Con: Not impervious. While extremely durable, they can still be damaged. Marble, for example, is vulnerable to acids (like coffee, citrus juice, and some cleaning products) and can discolor over time if proper care isn’t taken. Since it is more prone to staining, it’s better suited to bathrooms than kitchens.
Pro: Simple maintenance. The smooth surfaces of natural stone countertops are ideal for a cleansing wipe down with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth.
Con: Some extra care required. Natural stone is porous and will require re-sealing occasionally to protect the stone.
Pros: Instant value. The enduring beauty and durability of natural stone is a plus for potential buyers when you’re in the market to sell your property.
Cons: Considerable investment. Though it can contribute to higher value when selling, natural stone can also be a significant expense at the start, as it usually costs more per square foot than solid surface, laminate, or butcher’s block countertops.
At Old Stone Countertops, we can help you decide on the right materials to complement the vision you have for your kitchen or bathroom. With years of knowledge and industry expertise, we understand the pros and cons of natural stone countertops, and can help you find an option that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Contact us for a consultation and quote.