Deciding on kitchen countertop stone is one of the most exciting parts of the renovation process. You’re ridding your home of the crusty old tile or faded Formica that you dread and welcoming a new stone surface that will become the envy of your guests. But first, you have to decide which stone will make up that new surface. It’s not an easy choice.
Granite is solid and sleek. Quartz is cutting-edge. Marble is marvelous. Which natural stone is right for your kitchen countertop? We’ve compiled a list of tips to help you make up your mind along the way.
Tip #1: Fall in Love with Your Counter
No matter which type of stone you select for your kitchen countertop, make sure you absolutely love it. When considering materials, keep in mind that your counters will likely cost the most per square foot, and they can easily define all other design choices in the kitchen. That means your counters should be the first material you choose, and you should be supremely confident in your decision.
Tip #2: Understand That it Will Suffer Wear and Tear
There is no such thing as a kitchen countertop that doesn’t experience wear and tear. The only question is how this wear and tear will show itself over time. Marble is more prone to etching, while granite and quartz are more prone to scratching. Choose the natural stone you believe fits your needs best but wears in a way that you can live with.
Tip #3: All Natural Stone Has Maintenance Needs
There are some stones that need less regular maintenance than others, but understand that all natural stones need some level of care. Most granites need to be sealed once a year while quartz may not, but with quartz, you may have to pay closer attention to which type of cleaning agent you use. Every stone is different, so you must adhere to a specific set of maintenance guidelines for each.
Tip #4: Light Can Drastically Alter the Look
If possible, get a sample of the stone you plan on using and bring it home. View it in its intended environment. With natural stone, the level of natural and artificial light can drastically alter its shade, and you don’t want any surprises after installation.
Tip #5: Think About the Surroundings
If your home is an open floor plan, consider how the stone kitchen countertop will blend or contrast with other materials in the same line of sight. Will it clash with the stone surface on the fireplace? What about the floors in the living room? Make sure you like the stone you choose both alone and in context.
Trust Intermountain Stone & Marble Company for high-end counters at fair prices. Visit our showroom today to view our selections and find the ideal slab for your kitchen.
