The option of installing a stone countertop in your kitchen is a good idea for several reasons – it is a sturdy and long lasting surface that will not scratch, chip or stain easily. A stone countertop is heat resistant and easy to clean. They can look really beautiful; the individual characteristics of natural stone can mean that each countertop is really unique and one of a kind. We look at the different stone countertop options that you can choose from and why.
1. Granite
Granite is one of the most desirable choices for counter tops. It looks beautiful and luxurious, is scratch and stain resistant and highly durable as well. However granite is a pricey option and can require some amount of periodic maintenance such as sealing several times a year.
2. Marble
A highly elegant option, marble looks beautiful and because of its color it reflects light. A cool stone, it is a good option for those who do a lot of baking. However also because of its color it tends to show up chipping, stains, scratches and acid discolorations. You have to be careful about what cleaning materials you use as well as coffee or citrus spills. Like granite, marble is also required to be sealed a few times a year and is expensive.
3. Engineered Stone
This type of counter top is made from quartz chips and resin. Is has several pluses such as low maintenance, high durability and resistance to scratches, stains and spills. While this may not be as classy as granite, it is a good, solid and long lasting option.
4. Limestone
This can be a warmer looking option than a marble counter top. However it is a porous stone, and as such, has its limitations.
5. Soapstone
This is thought to be a more environment friendly option, because the quarrying is not as detrimental. It is also cheaper than marble and granite and has a naturally neutral color.
6. Lava Stone
Is in an expensive option but it compensates by being low maintenance and highly resistant to wear and tear. It is also available in different color options.
7. Ice Stone
This is not strictly stone, but it is an option that is more environmentally sustainable and has really caught on in recent times. These countertops are made from recycled glass and cement but can require a fair amount of maintenance.
8. Slate
This is another attractive and low maintenance, durable option that needs no polish or oiling.
