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