Marble countertops are clean, classic, and have nearly universal appeal. In many countries, marble has been in use for centuries, and it’s expected for a countertop to develop a patina after years of use. A marble countertop that is yellowed, stained, and worn is a sign of a well-used kitchen.
Many homeowners prefer a polished, clean look to their countertops, and a counter that appears worn down is a serious detriment to the kitchen design. Quartz provides a great alternative to achieve the look of marble without care and maintenance.
Marble in the Kitchen
Marble is made of calcite, a metamorphic stone formed when limestone is subjected to high levels of heat and pressure over an extended period. Limestone is a sedimentary stone created from fossilized shells and nearby minerals. The transformation to marble makes the stone harder and denser, but still composed primarily of calcite.
All marble contains calcite, which does not react well with acids from foods like lemons, tomatoes, and vinegar. Contact with these foods etches marble because its calcium carbonate reacts with the acid. A lemon slice falling from a glass can scar the marble surface.
Like many natural stones, marble is porous. Microscopic holes in the surface absorb liquids. Spilled tomato juice could stain marble by seeping into the pores and remain even after wiping the surface.
Sealers temporarily prevent stains by filling the pores in the marble. Sealers wear down over time from exposure to cleaners and detergents, so require re-application. Unsealed marble is vulnerable to staining. Marble that is sealed will still stain because sealers only offer a limited window to wipe up spills before they soak in.
With constant use in the kitchen, a marble countertop will show signs of wear within months. Maintain the beauty of marble with diligent care and immediate cleaning of spills. Marble does not stand up well to heavy use in a busy kitchen.
Quartz in the Kitchen
Quartz contains no natural stone, so has none of its vulnerabilities. Quartz counters are over 90% ground quartz, one of the hardest minerals available for home use. Quartz countertop material is non-porous, spills and fallen foods do not damage the surface easily. Quartz resists scratches, stains, and discoloration even in active kitchens.
Comparing Quartz and Marble Styles
Marble comes directly from nature, so no two pieces are exactly alike. Variations in mineral content produce a range of marble colors and patterns. The beautiful veining in marble highlights its uniqueness, which also causes irregularities.
However, the beauty of marble comes at a price. Marble countertops might display adverse reactions to kitchen elements like water or metals, or showcase unappealing mineral streaks.
Quartz replicates natural beauty but lacks marble’s randomness. Quartz offers realistic veining without unpleasant surprises through controlled fabrication. The pigments and aggregates comprising quartz do not cause adverse reactions like marble’s iron oxidation. Choose from a variety of exquisite and dependable options in quartz countertops.
Selecting the Best Countertop
Marble and quartz both provide timeless elegance. Quartz maintains its pristine beauty without ongoing maintenance. Quartz is the better choice to enjoy worry-free usage for years.
Quartz countertops featuring a marble look offer the visual impact of marble without the practical downsides.
Longevity of Quartz vs. Marble
The lifespan and durability of a countertop material significantly impact its value and functionality. When evaluating quartz and marble, quartz clearly surpasses marble for longevity in the kitchen.
The natural composition of marble makes it prone to damage from daily kitchen use. Quartz’s durability and stain resistance is superior to marble’s delicate nature:
- Heat does not damage quartz like it does marble. Marble can crack, scorch, or discolor under sustained heat exposure.
- Quartz does not react with acidic foods and liquids that permanently etch marble surfaces.
- Quartz lacks marble’s tendency to gradually erode under abrasive cleaners and scrubbing. Quartz maintains its polished surface with simple cleaning methods.
- Quartz resists scratches better than the relatively soft marble surface. Quartz stands up to metal cookware and sharp knives that readily mark marble.
- Spills seep into porous natural marble, causing stubborn stains. Dense, non-porous quartz prevents the absorption of liquids.
With proper sealing and gentle care, marble countertops will provide years of beauty. Quartz’s innate durability ensures a long, trouble-free life span.
Appearance of Quartz vs. Marble
Quartz countertops not only offer exceptional durability but also stand out in terms of visual appeal, making them an ideal choice for homeowners seeking an attractive yet low-maintenance surface.
While marble boasts classic beauty through its natural, random patterning, there are certain aesthetic concerns that arise with this material. Engineered quartz, on the other hand, provides a solution to these concerns:
Quartz offers an extensive range of styles that beautifully replicate the visual appeal of marble with popular marble-like looks in quartz equivalents. Unlike marble, quartz doesn’t display unappealing discolorations or streaks, as it lacks natural inclusions.
The fabrication and installation of natural marble may result in chips, cracks, or fractures, whereas quartz fabrication yields flawlessly uniform slabs.
Marble tends to develop a worn patina due to etching and abrasions. Quartz maintains its glossy sheen for years, even under heavy usage — with quartz, expect a worry-free aesthetic without compromising beauty and functionality.
So, Is Quartz or Marble Better for Countertops?
Quartz countertops offer comparable beauty to natural marble but with greater durability and easier care. Homeowners seeking a classic upscale look gain advantages by choosing quartz over marble:
- Lacks marble’s natural flaws and inconsistencies
- Maintains original appearance for years without special maintenance
- Provides diverse styles emulating marble’s elegance
- Resists stains, etching, heat damage, abrasion, and typical signs of wear
- Retains lasting high-gloss polish impervious to wearing down
While no countertop material is indestructible, quartz comes closer than natural stone choices. Quartz delivers marble’s visual appeal without maintenance. As a real estate agent with over two decades of experience, I recommend quartz countertops for a luxury look that endures.
FAQs About Quartz and Marble Countertops
Does quartz stain as easily as marble?
No. Quartz’s non-porous surface resists stains, while marble’s pores allow liquids to seep in. Extremely acidic substances could stain quartz over time with prolonged exposure.
Can you place hot pots and pans on quartz?
Yes. Quartz withstands heat, while marble can crack, scorch, or discolor under high heat exposure. Maintain the beauty of your quartz countertops and ensure safety by using trivets.
Is marble cheaper than quartz?
In most cases, no. Price differs based on stone and style, but quartz and marble have comparable average costs. Labor and installation fees also impact the total price.
Does quartz need sealing like marble?
No. Since quartz is non-porous, it does not require sealing to prevent stains. Marble countertops need regular sealing to temporarily block liquid absorption.
Can you cut directly on quartz countertops?
It’s not recommended. Although quartz resists scratches better than marble, direct cutting can damage the surface over time. Always use a cutting board instead of cutting directly on countertops.
