Countertops are a crucial aspect of any kitchen or bathroom design because they serve as a functional workspace as well as an aesthetic focal point. Homeowners interested in remodeling or renovating these spaces often gravitate toward natural stone countertop materials like granite, marble, and soapstone. These natural stone materials are durable, provide unique and beautiful patterns, and last a long time when properly maintained.
Granite is beloved for its heat resistance and deep, rich colorations. Marble offers a more classical, refined look that makes it a prime choice for many luxury homes. And soapstone has a softer, subdued finish that is both easy to maintain and modern looking.
In this blog post, we’ll compare these three natural stone options (granite vs. marble vs. soapstone) to help you make an informed decision when selecting countertop materials for your living space.
Best Natural Stone Countertops
Many homeowners prefer natural stone countertops over other engineered countertop materials because natural stone offers alluring and truly unique patterns that cannot be replicated with engineered stone. Additionally, natural stone is generally more durable and resistant to heat and scratches than many engineered materials.
In this section, we’ll cover some of the basics about each natural stone and highlight their advantages and disadvantages:
Granite
There’s a reason why granite is consistently among the top choices for both kitchen and bathroom countertops. Firstly, granite is a hard, durable natural stone that is resistant to scratches, heat, and moisture, making it an ideal material for kitchens and bathrooms. Granite countertops are also available in a wide range of colors and patterns, and homeowners can generally find something that aligns with their design goals.
Granite is also easy to clean and maintain; most granite countertops only require periodic sealing to protect against stains and other blemishes. And lastly, granite is an eco-friendly option because it’s a natural stone that can be recycled.
Marble
For elegant, luxurious design themes, marble countertops are unmatched. One of the main advantages of marble is its timeless beauty and one-of-a-kind veining, which offers a decadent feel to any space. And despite marble’s softer nature, it’s still a highly durable stone that can withstand heat and last for over a lifetime with proper maintenance.
Marble is also naturally cool, which makes it an ideal material for kitchen countertops (especially for baking and pastry-making). Additionally, marble is easy to clean and can be restored relatively easily if the surface ever becomes scratched or stained. And while marble can be more expensive than some other options, its aesthetic and durability make it a highly desirable option for homeowners seeking a high-end, sumptuous countertop material.
Soapstone
Soapstone countertops are generally less known than granite or marble, but they still offer a distinctive look for any kitchen or bathroom design. Soapstone offers a soft, matte finish which can provide a rustic, natural look. And despite its softer nature, soapstone is highly durable and resistant to heat and abrasions. Not only that, but soapstone is also nonporous, which means it’s especially resistant to stains and bacteria or mold growth.
Soapstone is also easy to maintain, requiring only an occasional application of mineral oil in order to maintain its luster. Because of its durability, unique appearance, and easy maintenance, soapstone countertops are a great choice for both kitchens and bathrooms alike.
Granite vs. Marble vs. Soapstone
Sometimes homeowners know they would prefer a natural stone but aren’t sure which material to choose. Granite is the hardest and most durable of the three, while marble is softer than granite and known for its classic, elegant look (although marble generally requires more maintenance than granite). Soapstone is the softest and most matte of the three options, offering a rustic, natural appearance that is practically effortless to maintain.
While all three have their own advantages and disadvantages, natural stone is a great choice for high-use areas like kitchens and bathrooms. If you’re interested in renovating your living space and increasing the value of your home, consider working with True Blue Surfaces. For quality materials and excellent customer service, there’s no better countertop company in the greater Central Texas area.