Kitchen Stone Countertops: Top 5 Best Picks for 2024

If you’re diving into a kitchen remodel and want to strike a balance between beauty, durability, and versatility, then kitchen stone countertops are your best bet. Here’s a quick comparison to kickstart your journey:

• Granite: Unique patterns, heat resistant, but needs periodic sealing.
• Quartzite: Extremely durable, scratch-resistant; however, it's porous.
• Marble: Luxurious appearance, but high maintenance.
• Onyx: Exotic look, very high maintenance.
• Soapstone: Nonporous, less staining, but limited color options.

Now, let’s dig deeper into what makes each option shine.

Stone countertops have stood the test of time, offering a timeless appeal that can transform any kitchen. Not only are these surfaces captivating in their natural beauty, but they are also known for their robustness, handling spills, scratches, and the daily rigors of a busy kitchen with ease. From the neat veins of marble to the sturdy simplicity of granite, each stone type brings its own unique blend of aesthetics and practicality.

With over two decades of hands-on experience in the stone and countertop industry, I'm Julian Guzman, your guide through the intricate world of kitchen stone countertops. My journey has entailed working on high-end kitchen remodels and guiding homeowners to make durable, beautiful choices. Let's explore these stunning surfaces together.

Types of Stone Countertops

Granite

Granite is a classic choice for kitchen stone countertops. It’s celebrated for its heat resistance and durability, making it a reliable option for busy kitchens. The natural stone comes in a variety of unique patterns and colors, allowing for a personalized touch in your kitchen design.

However, granite does require periodic sealing to maintain its appearance and resist stains. Without proper maintenance, it can become prone to staining, especially from acidic substances like wine or lemon juice. Despite this, granite remains a popular choice due to its robustness and timeless appeal.

Quartzite

Quartzite is another excellent option known for its high durability and scratch resistance. Unlike granite, quartzite can resemble marble, providing a luxurious look without the high maintenance that marble demands.

But keep in mind, quartzite is porous and needs regular sealing to prevent stains. This maintenance step is crucial to preserve its beauty and functionality over time. If you’re drawn to the elegance of marble but need something more resilient, quartzite might be the perfect fit for your kitchen.

Marble

Marble countertops exude luxury and sophistication. Their unique veining patterns make each slab one-of-a-kind, adding a touch of elegance to any kitchen. However, this beauty comes with a price—high maintenance.

Marble is porous and prone to scratches and stains. It requires regular sealing and diligent care to avoid damage from spills, especially acidic ones. Over time, marble develops a patina, which can either improve its charm or create an uneven appearance, depending on your perspective. If you’re willing to invest time and effort into maintenance, marble can be a stunning addition to your kitchen.

Onyx

For those seeking an exotic and eye-catching option, onyx might be the answer. This banded rock features striking patterns and colors, making it a standout choice for a unique kitchen design. However, onyx is a soft material and requires high maintenance.

Due to its softness, onyx often needs reinforcing materials to be used as a countertop. This, combined with its rarity, makes it an expensive option. If you’re willing to take on the challenge of maintaining onyx, you’ll be rewarded with a truly distinctive and beautiful kitchen surface.

Soapstone

Soapstone offers a different set of advantages. It’s nonporous, meaning it’s less likely to stain compared to other natural stones. This makes it a low-maintenance option, as it doesn’t require sealing. Instead, you can maintain its appearance by applying oil periodically.

While soapstone is a soft material, which can make it susceptible to scratches, it’s easy to sand out any imperfections. The color options for soapstone are more limited, typically ranging from shades of gray to green. Despite this, its nonporous nature and ease of maintenance make it a practical and attractive choice for many homeowners.

Ready to explore more about kitchen stone countertops? Next, we'll dive into why quartz is an excellent choice for your kitchen.

The Best Stone for Kitchen Countertops: Quartz

Why is Quartz Good for Kitchen Countertops?

When it comes to kitchen stone countertops, quartz stands out as a top contender. This engineered stone combines loose quartz particles, resins, and pigments to create a surface that's both beautiful and practical.

Nonporous Surface: Unlike natural stones, quartz is nonporous. This means it doesn't absorb liquids, making it resistant to stains and bacteria. No need for sealing, ever!

Minimal Maintenance: With quartz, cleaning is a breeze. Just a simple wipe-down with soap and water keeps it looking new. No special cleaners or sealants required.

Durability: Quartz countertops are incredibly durable. They resist scratches, impacts, and moisture, making them perfect for busy kitchens.

Long-lasting: Thanks to its robust composition, quartz can last a lifetime with minimal upkeep. This makes it a cost-effective choice over time.

Quartz vs. Natural Stone: Aesthetics

When comparing quartz to natural stone, aesthetics play a crucial role. Here's why quartz often comes out on top:

Variety of Designs: Quartz offers a wide range of styles and colors. Whether you want the look of marble, granite, or something entirely unique, quartz can mimic these appearances.

Resembles Natural Stone: Modern quartz designs closely resemble natural stones like marble and granite, offering the same elegance without the high maintenance.

Cost-effective: While the initial cost of quartz might be high, its durability and low maintenance make it a more economical option in the long run.

Durable Beauty: Unlike natural stones that can discolor or develop a patina over time, quartz maintains its look for years. This ensures your kitchen always looks pristine.

Ready to dive deeper into kitchen stone countertops? Next, we'll explore the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect stone for your kitchen.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Stone Countertop

Choosing the right stone countertop for your kitchen involves several key factors. Here's what you need to consider:

Durability

Scratch Resistance: Kitchen countertops face a lot of wear and tear. Granite and quartz are highly resistant to scratches, making them great choices for busy kitchens. Marble, while beautiful, is softer and more prone to scratches.

Heat Resistance: If you often place hot pots and pans directly on your countertop, you'll need a material that can handle the heat. Granite and soapstone are excellent in this regard. Quartz, however, can be damaged by high temperatures due to the resin used in its composition.

Chip Resistance: Some materials are more prone to chipping than others. Quartzite and granite are less likely to chip compared to marble and onyx.

Maintenance

Sealing Requirements: Natural stones like granite, marble, and travertine need to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and bacteria buildup. Quartz and porcelain don’t require sealing, making them easier to maintain.

Cleaning Methods: For daily cleaning, most stone countertops can be wiped down with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners, especially on marble and soapstone, as they can damage the surface.

Stain Prevention: Quartz and porcelain are nonporous and highly resistant to stains. Natural stones like marble and travertine are more porous and can stain if spills aren’t wiped up immediately.

Cost

Initial Cost: Granite and quartz are typically on the higher end of the price spectrum. Marble can also be expensive, especially for premium varieties. Soapstone and travertine are generally more affordable options.

Long-term Maintenance Cost: Consider the costs of regular sealing and special cleaners for natural stones. Quartz and porcelain have lower long-term maintenance costs due to their minimal upkeep requirements.

Budget Considerations: Balancing initial costs with long-term maintenance can help you find the most cost-effective option for your needs.

Aesthetic Preferences

Color Options: Quartz offers the most variety, with virtually limitless color and pattern options. Granite and marble come in a wide range of natural colors and patterns, each slab unique.

Patterns: If you love the look of natural veining and speckling, marble, granite, and quartzite are excellent choices. Quartz can also mimic these natural patterns.

Unique Appearance: For a truly unique look, natural stones like granite and marble each have their own distinct patterns. No two slabs are alike, adding a touch of individuality to your kitchen.

Kitchen Usage

Frequency of Use: If your kitchen is a high-traffic area, durability becomes even more critical. Quartz and granite are both excellent choices for busy kitchens.

Exposure to Heat: For kitchens where hot pots and pans are frequently placed on countertops, granite and soapstone are ideal due to their heat resistance.

Exposure to Spills: In kitchens prone to spills, nonporous materials like quartz and porcelain are best. They resist stains and are easy to clean.

By considering these factors, you can choose the perfect stone countertop that balances durability, maintenance, cost, aesthetics, and your kitchen's specific needs.

Ready to get into the specifics of each stone type? Next, we'll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about kitchen stone countertops.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kitchen Stone Countertops

What is the best stone for a kitchen counter?

The best stone for a kitchen counter depends on your personal needs and preferences. Granite is often considered a premium stone due to its beauty and durability. It’s heat-resistant and scratch-resistant, making it an excellent choice for busy kitchens. However, it does require periodic sealing to maintain its appearance.

Quartz is another top contender. As an engineered stone, it combines the beauty of natural stone with improved durability. It’s nonporous, so it resists stains and doesn’t require sealing. Quartz is also available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it a versatile choice for any kitchen design.

What kind of stone do you use for a kitchen top?

Several types of stone are popular for kitchen countertops:

• Granite: Known for its durability and heat resistance, granite is a classic choice. Each slab has unique patterns, adding a touch of individuality to your kitchen.

• Quartzite: This natural stone is extremely hard and scratch-resistant. It resembles marble but is more durable, making it a great option if you love the look of marble but need something tougher.

• Marble: Marble is prized for its luxurious appearance. However, it’s more porous and softer than other stones, making it prone to scratches and stains. It requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.

• Onyx: Onyx offers an exotic, banded appearance with varying colors and textures. It’s softer and more fragile than other stones, often requiring reinforcement and extra care.

• Soapstone: Soapstone is nonporous and less likely to stain. It’s softer than granite and quartz, so it can scratch more easily, but it’s also easy to maintain with periodic oiling.

What is cheaper, granite or quartz?

The cost of granite and quartz countertops can vary based on several factors, including the quality of the stone, the complexity of the installation, and regional price differences.

Generally, quartz can be more expensive than granite. However, quartz has lower long-term maintenance costs since it doesn’t require sealing and is more resistant to stains.

Granite prices can vary widely. Some granite slabs are imported, which can increase costs due to international shipping and transport. On the other hand, locally sourced granite may be more affordable.

When considering cost, remember to factor in both the initial purchase price and the long-term maintenance expenses. While granite might be cheaper upfront, quartz could be more cost-effective over time due to its minimal maintenance requirements.

By weighing these factors, you can find the best stone countertop that fits both your budget and lifestyle needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect kitchen stone countertop can be a complex decision, but it's essential for achieving your dream kitchen. At Stone Atlanta, we specialize in high-performance stone countertops that combine beauty, durability, and functionality. Our extensive selection ensures you'll find the perfect fit for your kitchen, whether you prefer the timeless elegance of marble, the durability of granite, or the low-maintenance appeal of quartz.

Why Choose Stone Atlanta?

Large Selection: We offer a vast array of stone materials, including granite, quartzite, marble, onyx, and soapstone. With such a wide variety, you're sure to find a countertop that matches your aesthetic preferences and functional needs.

Competitive Pricing: Our goal is to provide top-quality stone countertops at prices that fit your budget. We understand that a kitchen remodel is a significant investment, and we strive to offer the best value for your money.

Lifetime Warranty: We stand by the quality of our products and craftsmanship. That's why we offer a 100% lifetime warranty on all our stone countertops. You can enjoy peace of mind knowing your investment is protected for life.

7-Day Turnaround Guarantee: We know that time is of the essence in any renovation project. Our 7-day turnaround guarantee ensures that your new countertops are installed quickly, minimizing disruption to your daily life.

In-House Expert Design Support: Our experienced in-house design team is here to help you every step of the way. From selecting the perfect stone to finalizing the design, we provide personalized support to ensure your kitchen looks exactly how you envisioned.

Ready to Transform Your Kitchen?

When you're ready to upgrade to a stunning stone countertop, Stone Atlanta is here to help. Visit our remnant countertops package page to explore our current specials and find the perfect stone for your home.

We look forward to helping you bring your kitchen design vision to life with our high-quality, beautifully crafted stone countertops. Contact us today to get started!