If you’re a Tampa resident amidst a kitchen or bathroom remodel, the time for picking out countertops will come eventually in your process. Selecting countertops can be daunting because of the overwhelming number of choices available. When watching anything related to a kitchen or bathroom remodel, you will certainly hear talk of marble and quartz. These two stones are often mentioned together due to their similar looks. In this blog, we will explore the differences between marble and quartz and what you need to know before searching “quartz countertops Tampa” or “marble countertops Tampa.”
What are Quartz and Marble?
Quartz is an engineered stone or man-made stone. Despite being man-made, quartz is composed of mostly natural material—93% raw quartz aggregate. The remaining portion consists of dyes and resins, which help create the patterns within the material. Over the last decade, quartz has exploded in popularity in the countertop industry.
Marble, on the other hand, is a natural stone classified as a metamorphic rock. It is quarried throughout the world and has been used as a building material for thousands of years. Marble ranges in a wide array of colors from white to pink to blue, with endless patterns, but it is known for its dramatic veining patterns.
Appearance
The first obvious difference to discuss between these two stones is their appearance. Marble has existed much longer than man-made quartz. It could be argued that quartz was created because people wanted the look of marble without some of the characteristics that come with it. Marble typically has a richer appearance and appears to have more depth. Quartz often attempts to imitate marble. White quartz is especially popular, and you’ll find many Calacatta quartz imitations.
Marble possesses a much more variable appearance, with patterns that can be incredibly unique. Those who appreciate the naturally occurring formations in stone are prime candidates for marble. However, some love the look of marble but not its variability. In this case, the designed and controlled patterns of quartz are a better choice. With ever-evolving technology, quartz increasingly mimics marble. However, many argue that when it comes to looks, nothing beats real marble.
Hardness
In terms of hardness, there is no comparison. Quartz is incredibly hard compared to marble. Quartz is much more scratch and chip-resistant. On the Mohs scale, marble ranges from 3-5, while quartz is a steady 7—a considerable difference. Most marbles, although softer, are still suitable for busy residential kitchens. Some even argue that the small scratches and wear contribute to the marble’s look.
Stain Resistance
Quartz is considerably more stain-resistant than marble. Marble is porous, making it much easier to stain than quartz. Marble requires regular sealing, which, although minimally laborious, is necessary. In comparison, quartz does not require sealing. Stains can be removed from marble with a poultice in some cases. Quartz is engineered to be less porous, making it more stain-resistant.
Heat Resistance
Although it is advised to never place a scalding hot pan on any countertop, marble is much more heat-resistant than quartz. Quartz is not rated against high heat and is susceptible to cracking when exposed to high temperatures. Although marble is a natural material and there are no guarantees, it is more likely to withstand higher temperatures than quartz.
Cost
When it comes to quartz and marble, there is a large overlap in pricing. Many luxury quartz brands exist with beautiful patterns that can be quite expensive. However, some valuable marble colors far exceed the price of quartz. It’s important to note that the pricing of both materials starts roughly at the same point, and affordable versions of each are readily available. It’s a common misconception that all marble is expensive, which is not true. Quality marble slabs can be found for as little as the most budget-friendly quartz and would stand up well in a kitchen or bathroom.
There you have it—a quick breakdown of the differences between quartz and marble. It’s impossible to say one is unequivocally better than the other. Your personal preferences will determine which material is right for you. When you search for “quartz countertops Tampa” or “marble countertops Tampa,” you’ll be prepared to narrow down your options and make an informed decision based on the facts about these materials. Whether you’re looking for a Calacatta quartz look or a gorgeous natural white marble countertop, you’ll be armed with the information you need.
For more information or to view our selection, visit AGS Stone at www.tampagranitecountertops.com.