The Pros and Cons of Stones

by aeb52298_admin | Dec 13, 2021 | Uncategorized

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