What’s the difference? The choice between granite, quartz and marble

Once you’ve decided that stone is the way forward for your new kitchen or bathroom (and why wouldn’t you?!) you will face the more specific choice of which stone to use. Our main lines of stone: marble, limestone, granite and quartz have varied qualities which means that different stones are appropriate for different circumstances. So how do you make the choice that is right for you?

What are they?

Quartz

This is an engineered stone and encompasses our Dekton produced products which are compressed to produce an ultracompact surface. As this stone mixes a majority of natural quartz mixed with polymer resin, it is able to offer an extremely durable and low maintenance surface whilst also boasting a uniform pattern within a wide range of colour schemes.

Granite

This is a natural stone which is intrinsically hardwearing. Although it still requires sealing, the stone itself is more naturally durable than other options. As this is a mined stone, its colour and appearance can be hugely varied and as a consequence, the range of prices that different granites demand is wide.

Marble

This is a naturally mined stone which features distinctive and sometimes coloured veining which results in a wide range of uniqueness and therefore price. Geologically speaking, marble is a limestone which has been subject to extreme heat and pressure. Visually the look of these two stones is different although they historically derive from the same source.

Limestone

Limestone is a more porous stone than marble, although both stones require sealing in order to optimise their durability. Limestone offers a warmer and less formal finish than marble. It is found more commonly in the UK than other stones and offers a more limited range of colours.

Functionality

The most popular parts of the home to use stone are in the kitchen and bathroom. Similarly, in commercial setting receptions, dining rooms and bathrooms frequently use stone counters. What all of these spaces hold in common is that they are high traffic areas which experience consistent and high impact use. It is therefore important to ensure that your surfaces offer high durability. The most naturally durable of stone finishes is granite, although quartz and Dekton worktops, simply by virtue of their status as engineered products, cannot be surpassed in the durability stakes. Limestone is the most porous of natural stone, although when sealed is durable enough for those who wish to enjoy its very natural and warm aesthetic.

The Look

Which brings us on to the appearance of your choice of stone!  You should ask yourself two things when considering your aesthetic – how important is colour and how uniform do you want your space to appear? Marble offers a very luxurious and formal look which is popular for a bathroom or commercial space, but it is a natural stone and as such its veining is random. So if this idea leaves you cold then probably quartz is for you. If you are looking for colour variety with a lot of features in the stone, then look no further than granite. Or a more subtle and understated appearance will be achieved with limestone.

Maintenance

The beauty of stone surfaces is that, when compared with other materials such as wood or laminate, maintenance is extremely low. These surfaces are heat and stain resistant and are able to take constant water contact. If you are seeking the absolutely lowest maintenance of them all, as it is engineered as part of the production process, quartz is the winner. Granite, marble and limestone all require sealing to enhance their durability which is a process that may need to be repeated in the future.

At Zenstone we understand that each customer and project carries its own unique requirements. Be this colour toning, pattern matching, durability or functionality. We know stone and are there to help in your choice every step of the way so that you can continue to love your choice of stone for years to come.