When choosing a material for your kitchen worktop, you may realize you have your pick of the bunch. There are so many designs and colours, you may not know where to start when choosing a material. The most popular materials are marble, granite and quartz, but you still have to narrow your search down to one material.

When it is time to choose the material for your kitchen worktop, use the following guide on marble, granite and quartz counters to make your decision.

Marble Worktops

Marble has been a popular material in homes for many years. There is something about a marble counter-tops that adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen, especially when it is properly maintained.

Pros of Marble Worktops

1. It offers a more unique look thanks to the veins and patterns, and the colour selection includes shades of gray, green and black, as well as white.

2. Marble is a durable material. With the proper maintenance, your marble counter-top can last for a lifetime.

3. While you do need to use protection such as trivets and plates, marble worktops are resistant to heat and burns.

Cons of Marble Worktops

1. Marble is a porous material, so it needs to be sealed at least twice a year to avoid bacteria and water damage.

2. While marble is a durable material, it is also a soft material, making it more susceptible to scratches, chips and cracks if you are not careful.

3. Daily items such as turmeric, red wine and lemon juice can cause stains or damage if they are not cleaned up immediately. Unfortunately, harsh cleaners can also damage your marble counter.

Granite Worktops

Granite is very common in most homes because of its style and durability. It is made of a natural stone, and a slab of granite may look different from the rest, giving your counter a unique look.

Pros of Granite Worktops

1. You can choose from multiple colours, such as blue-gray, tan, brown and off-white, which work in most kitchens.

2. It is a durable material that can last for years with the proper maintenance. In many cases, it can last for as long as you own it.

3. Granite is strong enough to withstand heat, water and stains, but it is recommended to take the proper precautions with place-mats, trivets and coasters.

Cons of Granite Worktops

1. While you can choose from multiple colours, you may find it difficult to colour match multiple slabs, as it is a natural stone you will see unique differences in each slab.

2. A granite counter needs to be resealed once a year with a sealant designed for granite. Failure to seal your counter can result in it absorbing liquid and bacteria.

3. Granite is a natural rock, so your counter is still prone to scratches, chips and breaks if you do not maintain it.

Quartz Worktops

Quartz is only partially natural, as it is a natural stone that is colored for aesthetic purposes. It is also known as composite or engineered stone, and there is no doubt that it is growing popular in homes.

Pros of Quartz Worktops

1. Quartz is a very hard stone, and this makes it a very durable option for your kitchen counter.

2. It is also a non-porous surface, so you do not have to worry about sealing it throughout the year. Infact, you do not have to seal this surface at all.

3. You can easily clean a quartz worktops with a clean damp cloth and mild detergent.

Cons of Quartz Worktops

1. The natural look stone you can get in quartz is not as attractive as other stones, so it needs to be dyed to create an eye-pleasing appearance.

2. If your quartz counter is exposed to direct sunlight, the UV rays can cause your counter to discolour over time. This is not seen in lighter coloured quartz and new technologies in this industry are always developing methods to enhance the material.

Conclusion

Learning the pros and cons of each material makes it easier to choose one for your kitchen worktop, but at the end of the day, your decision is going to depend on your budget, lifestyle and personal preference.