About Natural Stone
Natural Stone countertops offer a timeless elegance and require minimal maintenance, making them a classic choice for any space. Their unique beauty, characterized by one-of-a-kind colors, patterns, and textures, adds a touch of distinction to any environment. According to the Natural Stone Institute, each stone possesses natural imperfections and characteristics that contribute to its individuality, which may vary in visibility depending on lighting and orientation.
Benefits of Natural Stone
Finish Options
Characteristics of Natural Stone
Seams
Seams in natural stone countertops are filled with a color-matching adhesive, which is visible and palpable upon inspection. Their prominence is more pronounced in materials with texture and movement. While English Marble & Granite considers all desired seam locations, the final placement is at our discretion, based on factors such as slab size, layout, material characteristics, installation requirements, and safety considerations.
Support
The maximum unsupported overhang for a 3CM Natural Stone product is 10" and 6" for a 2CM product as long as 2/3 of the countertop is supported by a solid affixed structure (e.g. cabinets, walls, etc.). Additional support or brackets are required in other situations for safety concerns. Bracket supports should be placed 6" from each end, spaced up to 30" apart and extend 3"-6" from the edge.
Care
Natural stones, being products of the earth, require gentle care to maintain their beauty. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasives containing lemon juice or citrus, as these can etch and dull the finish. For daily cleaning, use a soft cloth with mild liquid soap and warm water. To remove soap scum, utilize a non-acidic soap scum remover. Promptly wiping up spills is crucial to prevent staining. Darker-colored and non-polished materials necessitate more frequent cleaning, as they tend to show dirt, dust, and marks more visibly than lighter patterns. Protect your surface from heat damage, scratches, and staining by using hot pads, trivets, cutting boards, placemats, and coasters.
Types of Natural Stone
Granite
Granite is a natural stone renowned for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, granite is ideal for high-traffic areas such as kitchen countertops and flooring. Its resistance to scratches, heat, and stains makes it a popular choice for residential and commercial applications. Granite is exceptionally tough and long-lasting, easy to clean and maintain with regular sealing, and perfect for countertops, flooring, and outdoor surfaces.
Marble
Marble is a classic choice known for its timeless beauty and elegance. Its luxurious veining and rich colors make it a favorite for creating sophisticated interiors. Marble is renowned for its beautiful veining and variety of colors. While it requires sealing to protect against stains, its elegance makes it ideal for countertops, bathrooms, and fireplaces.
Quartzite
Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock that is highly durable and resistant to heat and scratches. It combines the aesthetic appeal of marble with the strength of granite. Quartzite is harder than granite, resistant to etching and staining, and looks similar to marble but with greater durability. It is ideal for countertops, flooring, and wall cladding.
Dolomite
Dolomite is a lesser-known but highly versatile stone. It is similar in appearance to marble but more resistant to acids and abrasion, making it a practical yet stylish option. Dolomite is more durable than marble, easier to maintain, and perfect for countertops, bathroom vanities, and flooring.
Onyx
Onyx is a stunning natural stone known for its transparency and vibrant color variations. It is often backlit to highlight its unique patterns, creating a dramatic effect. Onyx can be backlit for a glowing effect, is available in striking colors and patterns, and is commonly used for feature walls, countertops, and decorative pieces.
Limestone
Limestone offers a softer, more understated look compared to other stones. Its natural, earthy tones add warmth and elegance to any space. Limestone is perfect for indoor and outdoor applications, providing a timeless aesthetic. With soft, neutral colors and subtle variations, limestone has a smooth and uniform texture that develops a natural patina over time. It is ideal for flooring, vanities, and fireplaces.
Travertine
Travertine is a type of limestone with unique, porous textures and warm colors ranging from ivory to rich browns. Its natural holes and troughs can be filled for a polished look or left unfilled for a more rustic appearance. Travertine is versatile, suitable for both modern and traditional designs, and features a distinctive porous surface. It is commonly used for flooring, backsplashes, and bathroom surfaces.
Soapstone
Soapstone, a natural stone akin to granite, is quarried primarily from mineral talc. While inherently soft due to its talc content, soapstone utilized for countertops often incorporates higher quartz proportions, enhancing its durability and suitability for kitchen surfaces. Boasting a natural grey hue and a smooth matte texture, soapstone resists acid etching and allows scratches to be remedied through sanding or oiling, making it ideal for pastry preparation. However, it necessitates upkeep and exhibits less heat resistance compared to granite. Susceptible to dents and scratches, regular oiling and buffing are advised. Additionally, its color deepens with age over time.
Semi-precious
Semi-precious stones are exotic and luxurious, with various precious minerals and gemstones. Each piece is a work of art, offering unique patterns and vibrant colors that make a bold statement in any room. Semi-precious stones are exclusive, with each slab featuring intricate designs. They add a touch of luxury to interiors and are perfect for countertops, feature walls, and accent pieces.
Discuss Your Requirements
Ready to discuss your natural stone countertop needs or have questions about maintenance and care? Our expert team is here to assist you every step of the way.
