Granite is a very hard stone and 100% natural. It’s mined from quarries all around the world, cut down to manageable size, and then polished to a fine finish.

Granite comes in many different colors and patterns due to the way it’s formed (cooling and solidifying of molten materials). There is an almost limitless selection to choose from and no two granite countertops are the same.

Granite is a durable material that’s resistant to heat and many other kitchen elements. Due to its porous nature though, there can be some staining if spilled liquids are left sitting and damage can be done if your counter receives a high impact blow.

Granite countertops should be cleaned daily with soap and water or a mild household cleaner. To ensure it’s longevity, consider having the countertop resealed once a year.

Granite is recommended for kitchen countertops, vanity tops, fireplace surrounds, laundry countertops and summer kitchen countertops.

Quartz is an engineered stone product and is manufactured using 93% ground natural quartz and 7% polymer resins. However, quartz countertop compositions vary between 90-95% quartz and 5-10% polymer resins.

 One of the main reasons quartz has exploded in popularity is due to appearance. Quartz has the look of stone while also allowing homeowners to customize the design. While granite offers many options in terms of appearance, you may have to search for the right slab that matches your color preferences. With Quartz, the selection process is much easier.

Like granite, you’ll want to clean any spills on quartz countertops with soap and water or a household cleaner, but the solid surface means that there is no need to have your countertops resealed.

Quartz is actually harder than granite and more durable. Since is not porous as granite, it’s easy to keep your countertops bacteria-free. Be careful with cooking pan though: Quartz can be damaged by excessive heat, so it’s best to use heating pads.

Quartz is recommended for kitchen countertops, vanity tops, fireplace surrounds and laundry countertops.

Quartzite is a type of sandstone that is made up of mostly quartz material that has been transformed through pressure, and chemical activity into a strong and durable material. The sand grains get recrystallized and the silica acts as a cement that binds the particles together. These natural changes with the help of the magic of time and nature give quartzite that sought after sparkle and natural patterns that will surely elevate the look and feel of any space it is used in.

Quartzite is a strong, durable and can go a long time without maintenance. A light once over with soapy water can be enough maintenance most of the time. Quartzite however can break in environments of extreme heat and the surface can easily be scratched by sharp metals. Some variants of quartzite may also require resealing from time to time. Given the rarity, the colors and patterns may be limited.

Quartzite is recommended for kitchen countertops, vanity tops, fireplace surrounds, laundry countertops and summer kitchen countertops.

Marble has endless variations because of factors like where it’s sourced, its impurities, patterns, colors and veining. Colors can range from white to black to pink to green.

With regular upkeep, maintenance and sealing, marble countertops will last a long time in your home. Due it’s porosity and softness though, it can scratch, chip, stain and/or etch easier than other types of natural stone.

Marble is recommended for vanity tops.