Quick Guide to Stone Types

When it comes to countertops, backsplashes, and other surfaces, selecting the right stone is key! There are many options available, but they generally fall into two main categories: natural stones and engineered stones like quartz.


Natural stones - such as granite, marble, and soapstone, etc. - offer unique patterns and colors, as each slab is one-of-a-kind. Engineered stones, like quartz, are manmade, providing consistent color and pattern while being highly durable and low-maintenance.


Below, we’ve outlined the most common options to help you understand the differences, benefits, and considerations for each stone type.


NATURAL STONE -


Granite:

  • Natural stone, so patterns, veins, and colors can vary between slabs.
  • Durable and heat resistant - you can place hot items on the surface.
  • Porous, so it requires periodic sealing to protect against stains. We apply two coats initially, maintenance is up to the homeowner and typically needed every 6–12 months.
  • Recommended cleaners: warm water with dish soap, or natural stone cleaners.


Marble:

  • Natural stone with elegant, flowing veining and a classic, luxurious look.
  • Each slab is unique, with variations in color and pattern.
  • Softer and more porous than granite, so it can scratch or stain more easily.
  • Heat-resistant, but acidic substances (like lemon juice or vinegar) can etch the surface.
  • Requires periodic sealing to help protect against stains and etching more often than harder stones.
  • Recommended cleaners: warm water with mild dish soap or a pH-neutral stone cleaner.


Soapstone:

  • Natural stone with a smooth, matte finish and soft, warm feel.
  • Typically comes in darker shades (grays and greens) with subtle veining.
  • Non-porous and resistant to stains, but softer than granite so can scratch or dent.
  • Heat resistant - hot pots and pans are safe directly on the surface.
  • Scratches can often be sanded out or oiled, and the stone develops a natural patina over time.
  • Two main options for maintenance - water based sealant to keep the stone at roughly the same shade as  untreated slab, or mineral oil to enhance and significantly deepen the color.


Quartzite:

  • Natural stone often confused with quartz, but completely natural.
  • Depending on the type of quartzite, there is a range of hardness levels. Some are as strong or stronger than granite, while others are extremely soft and more prone to chipping and staining.
  • Porous, so sealing is recommended to protect against stains.
  • Typically has subtle veining or swirling patterns, often lighter in color (whites, grays, creams).
  • Recommended cleaners: warm water with mild dish soap or pH-neutral stone cleaner.
  • Low-maintenance compared to marble, but more unique in appearance than quartz.




MANMADE STONE -


Quartz:

  • Engineered stone made from natural quartz particles combined with resin.
  • Consistent color and pattern - samples closely represent the final slab, though slight variations can occur between batches.
  • Extremely durable: stain and scratch resistant, and non-porous, so no sealing is required.
  • Not heat-proof: avoid direct contact with very hot items (350°F+), as it could discolor or etch the surface. Lower heat items like coffee pots, Keurig's, etc. are safe.
  • Easy to clean with most common household cleaners (e.g., Lysol wipes, Windex, everyday household cleaners, mild dish soap).
  • Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including some that mimic natural stone.