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The Pros and Cons of Stones

We are here to make your home renovation easier; that is why we compiled a list of pros and cons for stones. We hope that this helps you choose the perfect stone for your home. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you read: 

  • Stain-resistant does not mean stain-proof. Stain-resistant means that it is harder to stain the stone. If you properly care for it, you will not deal with staining. 
  • Heat resistance does not mean you should constantly place high heat objects on the stones. High heat can remove sealer or polish layers, eventually damaging the stone. Try to use a trivet or hot pad as often as possible. 

GRANITE

Granite is a natural stone. It is formed under the Earth’s surface by magma that slowly cools and crystallizes over time. As a result, each slab is unique and full of different colors and patterns.

Pros of Granite: 

  • One of the hardest substances on Earth, making it very durable
  • Heat resistant
  • Scratch-resistant
  • Can be repaired if broken, unless shattered

Cons of Granite: 

  • Needs to be sealed; otherwise, there can be staining
  • Is porous

 

QUARTZITE

Quartzite is a natural stone formed by crystallizing from molten magma. Many slabs have marble-like colors and veining.

Pros of Quartzite: 

  • Resistant to etching
  • Low maintenance
  • UV resistant
  • Durable
  • Can be repaired if broken, unless shattered
  • Scratch resistant

Cons of Quartzite: 

  • Some varieties need to be sealed
  • Can stain

 

MARBLE

Marble is a natural stone. It’s created by the metamorphosis of a combination of rocks under intense pressure and temperatures.

Pros of Marble: 

  • Are beautiful and timeless stones
  • Can be repaired if broken, unless shattered
  • With proper care, they can last a long time

Cons of Marble: 

  • Porous
  • Can stain or etch. To prevent etching we recommend a honed marble. Honed marble is marble that has not gone through the polish process, which leaves it matte.
  • Delicate and can be damaged easier than other stones

 

PORCELAIN

Porcelain is a ceramic material made by heating clay-type materials to high temperatures.

Pros of porcelain:

  • UV Resistant
  • Heat Resistant
  • Essentially scratch resistant (ceramic knives may scratch)
  • Stain-resistant

Cons of porcelain: 

  • Can crack if hit by a hard object (ex: hammer).

 

DEKTON

Dekton goes through a high-tech process that mimics the metamorphic change that natural stone undergoes over thousands of years.

Pros of Dekton:

  • Scratch Resistant
  • Heat Resistant
  • Stain Resistant
  • UV and ice resistant, making it the perfect stone for outdoor use

Cons of Dekton:

  • Difficult to repair if broken

 

 

QUARTZ:

Quartz is an engineered stone made up of natural components.

Pros of Quartz: 

  • Is not porous
  • Does not need to be sealed
  • Stain-resistant
  • Same durability as granite

Cons of Quartz:

  • Not heat resistant
  • Can be damaged and stained by chemicals, ex: nail polish remover or high pH cleaner

 

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