When it comes to your bathroom and kitchen, selecting the ideal stone countertop can be difficult as there are many materials from which to choose. In the end, you want something unique, durable, and easy to maintain.
Marble and quartz have always been popular choices for bathroom and kitchen countertops – the former for their luxurious looks and the latter for their low-maintenance qualities.
But which should you choose? Keep reading for a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Countertops in Toronto: Is Marble or Quartz Better For Your Home?
Marble is created under the earth’s crust with intense heat and pressure. Quartz, on the other hand, is an engineered stone composed of crushed quartz sealed in resin. Which is best for your home’s needs?
1. Appearance
The veining of marble is one of its standout features. It is formed by mineral deposits, resulting in markings such as feather-like streaks or sprawling patterns. This makes them one of a kind, meaning no two marble slabs are alike. Marble ranges from pure white to black and even grey. It is ideal for those who want a unique and luxurious style.
Quartz slabs, on the other hand, are more consistent, with continuous veins and patterns. Because they are manufactured, they often show a more uniform colour than natural stones. This is beneficial if you are looking for a specific style for your countertop, which can only be achieved by matching slabs. You can choose from vibrant colours or whites, as the amount of colour and veins can be controlled when creating a quartz slab. This helps keep the design of your countertop uniform.
2. Durability
Being created naturally through heat and pressure makes marble durable and tolerant of heat. However, compared to other natural stones like granite, it is much softer, which means it is susceptible to scratches.
Marble is also porous and can absorb spilled liquids that are not cleaned up promptly, resulting in a stain. It is also prone to etching from acidic substances like lemon juice. This means homeowners who are drawn to marble must invest time in its maintenance. Fortunately, occasional sealing can protect the surface from both staining and etching.
Quartz, being non-porous, does not absorb liquids, meaning it does not harbour viruses or bacteria. It is also more durable and less prone to chipping or cracking. It can withstand moderate heat; however, it is better to place hot pots and pans on trivets rather than directly on the surface. Due to these low-maintenance qualities, it is often selected for countertops by those with a busy lifestyle.
3. Maintenance
Marble countertops in Toronto homes require resealing once every five or six months to protect them from stains and damage. Additionally, for cleaning, it is better to stick with a pH-neutral soap and water solution rather than harsh chemicals. This is because the latter can contain acidic substances that damage these countertops. Keep a soft towel handy to clean up spills immediately to prevent them from seeping into the surface and staining.
On the other hand, the most significant aspect of quartz is its low maintenance. There is no need for occasional sealing, unlike natural stone countertops. You can clean your Toronto home’s quartz countertops by wiping them with a soft cloth and a mild detergent. It is less likely to scratch or chip, so sealing is not required. Unlike marble, it also does not etch or absorb liquid. Because of its non-porous nature, cleaning it with soap and water solution is a simple option.
4. Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Marble is a natural resource, so extracting it can cause soil damage and air pollution. This means it is not as sustainable as quartz, but it is a longer-lasting option. Marble is also recyclable, reusable, and durable. These materials can be reprocessed and used to make a variety of products, including aggregate fill, walkways, concrete mixtures, landscaping, and simple reinstallation.
Quartz is an eco-friendly countertop choice. This is because its manufacturing includes recycled materials like glass. Using recycled materials in combination with a commonly found mineral (quartz) is beneficial because it reduces waste.
5. Installation Process
The installation of both materials calls for skill and attention to detail. For both, professionals first measure the installation area; then, the homeowner chooses their specific slab. The slab is then precisely cut, and the edges are shaped based on the chosen design. Finally, the slabs are put in place. The only difference is that marble slabs need sealant, whereas quartz ones do not.
Both marble and quartz countertops could be a great addition to your Toronto-area home. It ultimately boils down to the kind of look you want. With marble, you can achieve a classic and timeless look, whereas with quartz’s creative visual appeal, you can go for a more modern and contemporary look. If you are still unsure about what to choose, visit MaxSpace Stone Works’ showroom for expert consultation.