Granite and onyx and quartz, oh my! There are so many options when it comes to choosing a natural stone that sometimes the process can seem a little overwhelming. But not to worry, we’ve put together an outline of key considerations to help you choose the perfect stone to complement the vision for your space. Once you’ve landed on one, you can get creative choosing the color, edge profile, corners, and more. Beyond aesthetics, you’ll also want to consider practical aspects such as budget and functionality. So let’s get started, shall we?
Function – Stone Surfaces for the Home
Understanding how your stone will function in your home is the first logical step in making your selection. Will your stone perform a specific job, or is it purely decorative? Certain stones are ideal for specific applications based on their unique properties. For example, soapstone is perfect for fireplaces and pizza ovens given its ability to absorb and radiate heat, while onyx usually serves as a decorative statement piece because of its attractive glossiness and unique banding patterns.
Second, it’s important to consider if your stone will see exposure to sunlight, water, or high heat. Stones like granite and travertine are better suited for outdoor countertops and flooring, thanks to their resistance to sunlight, while stones like quartz are more likely to fade. When it comes to water and other stains, granite wins out again, beating out softer, less stain-resistant stones like marble and travertine. Along with quartz, granite is also heat resistant, making stones in this category ideal for cooking. Marble countertops are comparatively softer and therefore more at risk of scratching and other damage caused by hot pots and pans.
Third, ask yourself if you plan on installing the stone in a high-traffic area. High traffic areas are usually places like kitchen countertops or outdoor spaces, anywhere where the members of your household like to congregate in larger numbers. Durability is key here, and if you know your countertop will see a lot of action, consider something tough like granite or quartz.
Budget – Affordable Stone Countertops for Your Home
You don’t have to break the bank to get the countertops of your dreams. With plenty of options comes plenty of price points to choose from, and deciding which one fits into your budget is just as important as aspects like color and edge profile. On the more affordable end