Countertops are a great way to add style and personality to your kitchen or bathroom. With so many options available, choosing the natural stone option that is best for your space can be overwhelming. Firenza Stone offers stone surfaces in a wide range of styles, finishes, colors and textures to create the perfect look for your home and cabinet style. With the help of our expert design services, choosing the best natural stone surface for your home can be easy. Before you begin the process of choosing a countertop material, it is important to know the pros and cons of some of the most popular options.
Semi-Precious Stone
Semi-precious stone countertops are beautiful; they offer vivid colors and have a very luxurious appearance. However, these countertops tend to be rather expensive. They also may have soft spots or other inconsistencies throughout the slab.
Homeowners looking to add color and luxury to their kitchen or bathroom may choose to integrate handcrafted slabs of amethyst, jasper or other semi-precious stones into their plans and designs.
Granite
Granite has become one of the most popular stones for kitchen and bathroom countertops. This is largely because granite is available in many different colors and patterns to fit any design aesthetic. They are durable and hold up well against general wear and tear. But, granite countertops must be sealed each year to avoid stains and are extremely heavy, making sturdy cabinet boxes a necessity to support their weight.
Because granite is so versatile, it can be a great addition to any kitchen or bathroom space, whether the space is modern, traditional, contemporary or eclectic.
Marble
If you’re looking for a traditional countertop material, marble may be it. Marble countertops are not only elegant but they also stand up to heat demands within the kitchen. They are, however, very susceptible to stains and are easy to scratch and chip.
Marble is perfect for homeowners with a classic, timeless style. White marble with classic gray veining offers a clean look and a lot of character.
Soapstone
These countertops are perfect for homeowners looking for something a little different from the typical granite look. Soapstone countertops have a “soapy” texture and offer a subtle softness and depth in your kitchen or bathroom. This material starts out in a great natural gray color but that color may darken over time. It also requires regular maintenance and it might crack, chip or scratch over time.
Soapstone countertops are most commonly found in homes with cottage, farmhouse and rustic kitchens. This stone is a great option for homeowners looking to create a warm and inviting kitchen space.
Engineered Stone
Engineered stone is great because it offers easy maintenance and comes in many custom colors and consistent patterns because they are created by adding pigment to the crushed quartz and resin. However, they are not heatproof.
This stone choice is great for the non-traditional homeowner. Engineered stone has been gaining popularity but it is still a unique option for those looking to make a splash with their countertop choice.
Recycled Glass
Strong and durable, recycled glass countertops are a unique choice for a kitchen or bathroom. They are easy to clean and maintain and heat and stain resistant. But, because they are glass, they can crack during installation if not done correctly and water spots and fingerprints are very visible.
Recycled glass countertops are perfect for homeowners looking for durable countertops that are also earth-friendly, as the glass slabs contain glass from recycled bottles and jars to create a beautiful, interesting glass surface.
If you’re ready to make a decision about new natural stone countertops for your home, Firenza Stone has many different stones in a variety of colors and textures. We also offer interior design and contractor consultation for your kitchen or bathroom remodel. For more information, call us at 877.876.6638 or stop by the Firenza Stone showroom.
