If you’re in the process of drawing up plans to renovate your kitchen or bathroom countertops, chances are that you’ve spent more than a little time trying to decide which materials to use. For many homeowners looking for a more classical aesthetic, the choice often comes down to quartz countertops vs marble countertops. While both can offer dramatic benefits for your home decor, it’s important to understand how they compare with one another before deciding between quartz countertops and their marble counterparts.
Quartz Countertops
First, it’s important to know that quartz is a man-made material. As a result, it’s not going to have the more natural vein patterns that you can find with natural stones like marble. The material is colored using artificial means, so close inspection can reveal that it’s not marble – despite its close approximation of that classical stone’s appearance.
From a functional standpoint, however, quartz holds up well when compared to marble. Quartz countertops require very little maintenance, and can resist stains and heat – though not to the same extent as classical marble. Quartz is extremely durable, and can last for decades without scratching. And while it is more expensive than a natural stone like granite, it can be a less costly option than the more expensive marble countertops that are seen in higher-end homes.
Calacatta Vagil Quartz
Marble Countertops
Marble is a natural stone that has been highly prized since ancient times. Its rich and lustrous surface includes magnificent veining and a seemingly infinite variety of patterns and hues. Unlike artificial stones, marble can be vulnerable to chemicals, acids, and staining agents. Sealants can protect against most stains, though it is wise to wipe spills away quickly to prevent your marble countertops from being damaged. Marble can last for centuries, though it must be well-maintained to keep it looking its best.
As you might expect, fine marble is considerably more expensive than quartz or any of the other marble substitutes used in interior renovations these days. Quality marble can, however, add real value to any home, and is often one of the easiest ways to increase a home’s selling price without making an overly burdensome investment.
When it comes to the comparison between quartz vs marble, the decision typically involves a few basic factors: the amount of money that you want to spend and the amount of time that you want to spend caring for your new countertops. In the end, though, either option will dramatically improve your home’s appearance and worth.