Benefits of Natural Stone Countertops

While home renovations are always an exciting time, it is important to ensure that upgrades add significant value to a property in order to be considered an investment. This can be done by paying careful attention and care to the materials used in various aspects of a home upgrade. When it comes to countertops and floors, more and more homeowners are choosing to invest in high quality natural stone over ceramic and laminate. Options such as marble, granite, and quartzite offer both an aesthetic appeal as well as durable surfaces that are guaranteed to stand the test of time.

 

 

Natural stone countertops are generally available in these three material options: granite, quartzite, and marble. These materials are all, to a certain degree, durable and scratch-resistant, making them an ideal option in the kitchen or bathroom. While it can withstand high temperatures, placing hot objects directly on marble surfaces is not recommended as this can cause a discolouration that can only be fixed by replacing the entire countertop. Because of this, many opt for granite or natural quartzite countertops, as they will not discolour should they happen to come in contact with a hot pot or cooking dish. You should never, however, place hot pots directly on a natural fissure or a seam as these can open up.

 

While these natural stone surfaces are fairly easy to maintain, granite and quartzite in particular are recognized for their ability to withstand bacteria from food. Due to its porous qualities, marble is particularly susceptible to acidic food products, scratching, and staining.  All natural stones, especially marble due to its porosity, should be sealed yearly or so ( it's easy! ) to prevent absorption of liquids and the penetration of stains.

 

One of the most attractive aspects of upgrading countertops to natural stone is that you are inviting the elegance of far-away countries to your home. While there are cheaper countertop alternatives, few materials are capable of withstanding heat and traffic as are upkept natural stones. Some of the world's most beautiful buildings were made with these materials and they still stand today as a true testament.

 

 

Not only is natural stone an excellent option for countertops, it is also an ideal choice for floors. Marble floors complement any home and add substantially to its value. They are not only aesthetically pleasing, they are also available in a wide range of colours to suit all design schemes and personal tastes.  Marble tiles are a lovely addition in any room of the home.

 

Marble, quartzite, and granite offer numerous benefits when it comes to home upgrades and renovations. Discuss all the available possibilities with your Ottawa natural stone distributor. A professional will walk you through the various options as well as offer helpful tips and tricks on protecting your new investment.