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ABOUT GRANITE

Granite is an exceptionally hard and durable stone. It is generally seen in hues of white, pink or gray, depending on their mineralogy. Polished granite is also a popular choice for kitchen countertops due to its high durability and aesthetic qualities.

APPEARANCE

There are many different types of minerals in granite, some of which appear like small, shiny flecks or longer veins of varying colors. Granite itself comes in a variety of natural colors and can be polished or finished in many different ways.

BENEFITS

Granite is a one-of-a-kind natural surface that is easy to clean, and adds value to your home. The stone is naturally durable and water resistant with antibacterial and stain proof characteristics. Granite is also scratch and heat resistant.

CARE

Use a granite sealant for an additional layer of protection. Clean with a damp cloth and use a small amount of soapy water for heavy residue or debris. Avoid ammonia, bleach or any cleaning products with solvents or caustics, as this will remove the sealant.

ABOUT MARBLE

Marble is another popular choice of different countertop materials. Commercially, any stone that can be polished is also known as marble, with the exception of granite. This includes serpentine, travertine, limestone and onyx. Often called “green” marble, serpentine marble is not actually marble but looks very similar and is more stain and spill proof than marble.

APPEARANCE

Marble is typically a solid grayish-white or cream color and has dark veins running through it, though there are other, rarer varieties that have a pale green or pink base color. The lines in marble are formed from mineral impurities, like silt and iron oxides.

BENEFITS

The elegant appearance of marble is an excellent stone option for homeowners who want to give their house an aesthetic appeal. Marble is also very hard to scratch, making it a versatile choice. However, be sure to protect your marble from water, spills and stains.

CARE

Clean up any spills on marble as quickly as possible with a slightly damp cloth, and then dry with a soft towel. Avoid bleach or any abrasive household cleaners as etching and dullness may occur. Additionally, it is recommended that marble surfaces be resealed twice a year.

ABOUT QUARTZ

Made from one of the hardest minerals on earth, Quartz countertops are arguably the most durable option for countertops. Its non-porous surface and unique blend of beauty and low maintenance makes Quartz a popular choice for kitchens. The natural beauty of quartz is derived from its multi-dimensional gem-like color.

APPEARANCE

The natural beauty of Quartz comes from its multi-dimensional gem-like colors. It can be found in a wide variety of colors, including fire-engine red and apple green, as well as earthy browns, blacks, and creams, with sparkles and veining for the look of granite or marble.

BENEFITS

Quartz is naturally non-porous and scratch resistant. And built-in anti-microbial protection inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew. Quartz is available in different finishes making it a versatile option.

CARE

Quartz countertops are stain and scratch resistant. They are also nonporous, so they never need to be sealed. However, Quartz is not heat proof, so to maintain the beauty of your countertop, do not place hot skillets or roasting pans directly onto the surface.

ABOUT QUARTZITE

Quartzite, which is predominantly silica, is a hard non-foliated metamorphic rock which was originally sandstone. Sandstone is converted into quartzite through heating and pressure related to tectonic compression. Its siliceous nature makes quartzite a perfect choice for kitchen countertops because chemically it has a very high resistance to anything acidic.

APPEARANCE

Pure quartzite is usually white to gray, though quartzite often occur in various shades of pink and red due to varying amounts of iron oxide. Other colors, such as yellow and orange, are due to other mineral impurities.

BENEFITS

Quartzite is extremely popular due to its marble-like appearance and granite-like properties making it an ideal choice for kitchens. The hardness of quartzite makes it extremely resistant to water absorption, heat and scratches.

CARE

Use a stone sealant for an additional layer of protection. Products specifically made for cleaning natural stone are recommended for everyday cleaning. If a stone cleaner is not available, a microfiber cloth with warm water and a mild soap can be used. Keep in mind that prolonged use of dish soap can cause residue buildup. Clean up spills immediately–especially acidic foods. Cleaners with vinegar, bleach and ammonia can break down your sealer overtime and should be used sparingly.