How Resistant is really a Natural Stone Countertop?
more info used in kitchens! Surprising, yet it really is true that natural stone can be used as countertop materials in kitchens. They could not be the first choice though of many people due to their costs however they are popular indeed. Natural stone countertops are sleek looking and also have a touch of finesse about them.
There are different types of natural stone countertops available in the market. Expect to find Granite kitchen countertops, Quartz countertops, Marble countertops and Slate countertops. Already, you must be feeling there are many variations to natural stone countertops and can be best used for any kitchen. Are they though naturally resistant to any damage?
The solution is "No". Most countertops of the materials in the above list do have inherent qualities inside them to safeguard themselves from damage. You can though never predict the gale wind that could bring your countertop right down to dust! That said, treating natural countertops can make it resistant to any damage.
First things, most natural stone countertops are heavy. The heaviness causes them to be scratch resistant apart from being resistant to stains. Middle Eastern mountains produce durable granites that are preferred for use as natural stone countertops. The granites created from these mountains are found to become more resistant to heavy scratches and juice stains.
Quartz Countertops are known to be resistant to permanent stains. Use quartz countertops once you learn there would be a great deal of juice, wine and sugar related stains. Quartz may be the fourth hardest mineral in nature making it fit for use in natural stone countertops. This is a bit expensive though and will cause a dent in your wallet!
Marble countertops will be the softest version of natural stone countertops. They may be stained or soiled easily. Keep your marble countertops away from any oil or juice stain! Frequent polishing and sealing of the marble countertops though can keep away any permanent staining. It must be noted that marble countertops cannot withstand permanent stains or scratches.
Soapstone countertops are most popular of the countertops and also have been used for centuries. Soapstone is highly immune to acidic or alkaline materials and therefore can be used in a number of fixtures. People have used soapstone as preferred countertops in sculptures, goblets, fireplaces and tabletops.
Most natural stone countertops, as can be seen are naturally resistant to staining and scratching in varying degrees. The importance of regular sealing and polishing though can't be undermined. Regular sealing of the natural stone countertops will ensure that the resistance properties of the natural stone countertop remain with it forever.
Bottom-line, natural countertops are resistant to scratch and stain. The important questions that challenge the resistance of the countertops are - 1) How permanent may be the scratch? And 2) What's the degree of the scratch? Be prepared to be disappointed when you have your quartz countertop subjected to heavy scratches continuously. You must seal and polish your countertops regularly to ensure they retain their resistance power against scratching and staining.
