Natural stone countertops offer timeless natural beauty that is extremely difficult to match when compared to the man made products available. When it comes to the natural stones, each and every stone is completely different. If you are looking for something with a bit more character, then natural stones are the best option for you to consider.
Each natural stone will have different levels of maintenance and come in different range of colours and styles. Remember, just because a stone can be made into a countertop it does not mean that it should be or that is where it will be best used.
Before you go ahead and purchase a natural stone countertop for your home, you need to decide whether you would like a high or low maintenance stone, how it will be used and what is likely to be placed on it. Some stones will damage if it comes into contact with acid, for example. You will also need to have a look at what look you are after as different natural stones offer completely different styles.
Hopefully this guide will help you decide whether a natural stone countertop is for you.
Granite – Pros & Cons
Granite is one of the most commonly used stones for countertops and it is because it has become much more affordable in recent years. Years ago, Granite used to only be found in high end kitchens but as the processing technology has improved, the price has come down.
Granite is available in a huge range of colours but some of them are rare, which means it can be expensive depending on what you are looking for.
Granite is such a hard stone that it will not scratch unless it is scratched with something harder than a diamond, however it will chip or crack if it has been hit hard enough; so, do not think it will never break.
As Granite is porous, it means that it requires to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and this comes with a long term commitment with costing that you need to consider before purchasing.
Some dark Granites will likely to show fingerprints and watermarks but it is great for maintenance and durability.
Marble – Pros & Cons
Marble is one of the most stunning natural stones out there and it comes with veining that cannot be found in any other stone, regardless of how similar they look. However, it comes at a cost. Marble can be very expensive so it certainly is not budget friendly!
Marble is very easily damaged from acids such as vinegar, citric and certain household cleaners. This happens when there is a reaction between the acid and the calcite in the Marble.
Marble is such a soft stone that it will scratch easier when compare to Granite and some other natural stones.
Limestone – Pros & Cons
Limestone is one of the lesser known natural stones, but it is still widely used and growing in popularity. Limestone is available in a huge range of colours and the lighter colours offer a unique look when compared to other natural stones.
However, Limestone is easily damaged when it comes into contact with acids and this is not preventable by sealing. Because of this, it may not be a great choice to place it within the kitchen and it may be better off within the bathroom instead.
Limestone will also scratch easier than Granite and is not readily available, so you may struggle to get a hold of it from suppliers.
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