Which Material is Best for a Low-Maintenance Countertop?

The polishing touch to any kitchen or bathroom is an elegant countertop, so selecting the one that meets your style preferences is essential. However, you should also consider the upkeep and maintenance that suit your lifestyle before installing a new countertop. This month, we’ll help you avoid a renovation mistake by comparing compare three popular natural stone materials to help you decide which is right for you. 

What are the different types of countertops?

Granite, marble, and quartz are three of the most popular selections for natural stone countertops because of their beauty, durability, and elegance. Porcelain is seeing a rise in popularity for countertops because of its stain and chemical resistance. When choosing between these countertops, pay attention to the maintenance requirements and long-term durability so you can pick the perfect material for your space and lifestyle.

Granite

Granite has been a very popular material for countertops for decades. Homeowners love its elegance and durability. Granite is also fairly stain resistant, although regular sealant applications may be necessary to maintain the stone’s beauty. 

When selecting a style that best compliments your living space, you may discover that granite offers fewer color options than other materials. Although elegant and luxurious, granite is limited in its color and pattern palette. Unlike other materials that have over 100 colors and patterns, granite only has about twenty variations, so it may be harder to find the perfect slab to suit your style.

Marble

Marble delivers a unique and chic look to any kitchen or bathroom. This material is usually more expensive than others, but it’s durable and beautiful when you maintain it properly. Although it’s more heat resistant than granite, marble is much more likely to stain, chip, and scratch. Due to its porous nature, this surface is particularly susceptible to stains from acidic liquids, so you’ll need to apply sealant at least twice a year.

Additionally, marble tends to darken over time (called a patina). Some homeowners love the patina, but others do not. Although this material may look and feel elegant, you should consider the added maintenance requirements before installation.

Quartz

As opposed to granite and marble, which are solid stone materials, quartz is actually an engineered product. It’s about 90% crushed stone and 10% resin additive, making it more durable than other materials. The best part? It doesn’t need to be resealed periodically like granite and quartz. The resin additive also makes quartz less susceptible to chipping, and its non-porous composition is unlikely to stain. 

However, quartz is not heat resistant like a natural stone. The resin inside the countertop can char if you put a hot pot or pan on it, so always use a hot pad or trivet to protect your surface.

Since it’s manmade, the color and pattern variations of quartz are nearly endless. If you love the look of marble but don’t want such a high-maintenance surface, consider a custom quartz countertop that resembles marble but never needs to be resealed. Although not a 100% natural stone, quartz has the elegance of natural stone, but with modern conveniences.

Porcelain

Porcelain countertops are forged in incredibly high heats, so nothing in your kitchen will be hot enough to damage the surface. Porcelain is made out of a special type of clay, then kiln fired to harden. A glaze can then be added, with or without a pattern, to make it less porous. 

Like both granite and quartz, porcelain is resistant to scratching. The only concern is ceramic knives, which can scratch a porcelain surface. That said, it is always a good idea to use a high-quality cutting board to protect your countertops.

The one drawback to porcelain is that the design is often only stamped on top. Though it is fired again and meant to be durable, the design rests only on the surface. If your countertop is damaged, chipped, or develops a small crack, it will be much more visible than on some of the other surfaces discussed.

Though there are some drawbacks to porcelain, like all countertop surfaces, it is gaining in popularity. The raw material makes it easy to achieve a textured or smooth surface, and it is often made to look like marble. It’s also lightweight and heat resistant, so it’s perfect for vertical applications like a fireplace.

How do I protect my countertops?

Granite and marble countertops require additional maintenance to preserve the quality of the surface over time. Applying a sealant at least once a year can help prevent staining and everyday wear and tear. Especially if you cook frequently or use the countertops heavily, adding a protective layer will guarantee a longer life for your surface. Depending on how heavily you use the countertops, you may need to use a sealant more frequently.

Porcelain requires little in the way of upkeep, as long as you exercise care in avoiding cracks or scratches. Porcelain is non-porous, meaning there are no nasty little pores for germs to hide in. Cleaning with hot water is recommended, and you can use your favorite countertop cleaner when something stronger than water is required. 

Quartz does not need the same level of upkeep as granite or marble, so if you are searching for a low-maintenance option for your countertops, quartz is a great option. Even with heavy use, quartz is far more resistant to scratches than marble and granite.

How should I clean my countertops?

Correctly cleaning your countertops is crucial when it comes to preserving the material and lengthening the lifespan of your surfaces. Due to its porous composition, marble is most at risk for damage from certain cleaning products. Quartz and porcelain, on the other hand, are the least likely to sustain damage from everyday household cleaners.

Cleaning marble

Caring for this particular stone can be meticulous and time-consuming. You should not use vinegar or bleach on a marble countertop, as these acidic substances will dull the stone and destroy the surface. You should wipe up any spills right away so that the stone doesn't absorb corrosive or acidic liquids, such as milk, lemon juice, wine, and tomato juice. Additionally, abrasive cleaning pads or scrub brushes can scratch the sealant and the stone.

Everyday cleaning of your marble countertops is as easy as using mild soap and warm water on a soft cleaning cloth. If the surface does get a stain, you should consider hiring a professional to restore the surface and add a new layer of sealant. Many DIY countertop cleaning solutions can damage the stone further.

Cleaning granite

Granite is less porous than marble, so it is less prone to damage by absorbing certain substances. As with both marble and granite, sealants can offer a layer of protection against most spills. However, certain cleaning products may still pose a risk to the longevity of your countertops. Similarly to marble, you should avoid using acidic solutions to clean your granite surfaces.

Wiping down the counter with warm water and soap is ideal for cleaning granite. As with marble, it’s best to rely on a professional to remove stains, scratches, and chips from the surface so that you don’t accidentally make the area worse. 

Cleaning quartz

Unlike marble and granite, quartz can stand up to most household cleaners. However, a soft cloth and warm soapy water are sufficient for everyday cleaning.

Quartz is the most durable when it comes to everyday usage and household cleaning products. As a low-maintenance option, quartz does not require regular sealants nor specialized professional cleaning. It’s extremely durable, but you should still treat it gently because it is possible to crack it with enough force. 

Cleaning porcelain

Porcelain is similar to quartz when it comes to cleaning. Warm soapy water is fine for occasional spills, but can leave a residue that will start to dull the surface. Warm water is recommended for everyday cleaning, and you can use your regular household cleaners if you get a soapy build-up. 

Selecting the right countertop for your home

Granite, marble, porcelain, and quartz offer several elegant and modern options for your kitchen and bathroom counters. Selecting the best material depends on your preference for routine maintenance and durability. Although each of these materials requires basic everyday care, quartz and porcelain are more resilient to spills and standard cleaning products than granite or marble. 

If having a low-maintenance surface is a priority for you and your family, then quartz or porcelain may be an ideal solution. Still not sure which surface is right for you? Get in touch with our design experts and we’ll help you weigh the pros and cons of each surface.