Are you considering a natural stone countertop, such as granite or marble, but you aren’t quite sure it’s for you? Here are the top ten reasons you should consider a natural stone for your countertops:
1 – It’s Natural!
One of the main reasons that people choose natural stone is because it is…well, natural! These natural materials have properties that make them far superior to anything man made. Though manufacturers can try, thus far, we don’t have the technology to totally mimic what Mother Nature can do.
2 – It’s Ecological
Natural stone is also an ecological material and is found in a form that is extremely close to finished. This means that virtually no energy is required to manufacture it, only to quarry and process it. In addition, most of the stone is quarried without any major blasting, and the waste can be used for other purposes. In other words, you have a complete cycle of use when using natural stone.
3 – It’s Environmentally Compatible
You will also find that natural stone is compatible with the environment. This material does not contain pollutants, and it can be used in food areas without worry. It is not flammable, nor does it have any coatings, agents, or chemical substances.
4 – It has Variations
Another good thing about natural stone is that it is highly varied and totally unique. There will never be another countertop that looks exactly like yours. Why? Because the finishing process of natural stone can make it appear totally unique. You can even create a multitude of appearances to match any ambiance.
5 – It is Totally Unique
Natural stone is also totally unique. Natural stone countertops are made by taking large blocks of stone out of the earth, and then cutting it into the desired pieces. What does this mean? It means that even if you have the same exact countertop type from the same exact stone as your neighbor, they will still look very different thanks to the natural veining and speckling.
6 – It Ages Well
Natural stone is also a material that ages well, which means it is an investment that will last in your home for many years. You can’t say the same about other materials, such as laminate countertops. You will also find that natural stone develops a natural patina, which just adds to the beauty of the stone. This means, you can think of natural stone like a fine wine, and it will only get better over time. This stone can also be restored to its original condition with a little bit of work.
7 – It is Three-Dimensional
When you choose natural stone, you are also choosing a three-dimensional material. Any desired shape can be produced by natural stone, as well as any size. You also have to consider flutings and grooves in the surface of the stone, which creates shade and light effects. This gives a sense of solidity and strength, and when components are added, such as edging, it will really make these countertops shine.
8 – It is a Good Value
You will also find that natural stone has an attractive price, and since it is usually warrantied for decades, you really have no worries. In addition, investigations show that when compared side by side, over time, natural stone is not any more expensive than the manufactured materials. Though it is a larger upfront investment with natural stone, there are very low long-term costs; with other materials, which aren’t that much cheaper, there are a lot of long-term costs.
9 – It’s a Practical Material
Natural stone is also a practical material to have in the kitchen. For instance, it has good thermal conductivity, and it has a large capacity for heat storage. It is also cold to the touch, which makes it the perfect material for those who like to use their countertops for baking.
10 – It is Extremely Durable
Finally, natural stone is extremely durable, which means it can hold up to almost anything your family can throw at it. Other countertop materials cannot compare to the durability of this material, and even after several decades, most natural stone will show no signs or wear. If you are considering natural stone for your countertops, it is best to speak with a professional. They can give you even more reasons that natural stone is right for your home.