How to Choose Between Marble and Quartz Countertops

Deciding on the right countertop for your kitchen or bath is an important decision, as the countertop will influence the style, function, and value of your home. Two of the most common choices made by homeowners are marble and quartz. Both surfaces are lovely and durable, but both surfaces also have advantages and disadvantages in terms of lifestyles and design preferences. Knowing the differences will help you decide more easily in a way that meets your space criteria and budget.

The Beauty of Marble Countertops

Marble is one of the most elegant and timeless types of countertop material. A natural stone, marble is formed over thousands of years, which means every piece of marble will have unique veining and patterns that make it truly special. When it has been used for thousands of years in art, architecture, and design, how can it not be considered sophisticated and elegant? Marble has a soft, polished surface, allowing it to beautifully reflect light, adding brightness to any area. With its classic and luxurious look, homeowners like marble because it instantly creates an upscale atmosphere for areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where that’s most likely their intent.

The Strength of Quartz Countertops

Quartz is considered an engineered stone because it consists of natural quartz crystals held together with resin and pigment. The combination of resin and pigment, along with the curing process, makes quartz a nonporous surface that is durable and can be colored or patterned to be uniform and consistent. The durability of quartz surfaces lends itself to environments with heavy use, being more resistant to stains and scratches and being simple in maintenance and cleaning. Because quartz is an engineered product, the color and styles offered are extremely wide, with many options, including options that mimic the appearance of natural marble. For homeowners, deciding on a quartz countertop is a low-maintenance, stylish, and dependable choice for everyday living.

Durability and Maintenance

When looking at marble and quartz, maintenance is an important consideration. Marble is softer and much more porous, so it’s necessary to seal it regularly to avoid stains and scratches. Marble is also sensitive to acid, so things like lemon juice or vinegar can leave marks (called etches) if the material isn’t wiped up right away. Quartz is much easier to maintain since it is nonporous (no sealing). Quartz is very resistant to stains, bacteria, and moisture, which is why it is perfect for kitchens or bathrooms that will experience spills and heavy use. Basically, if you’re looking for a countertop with less upkeep, quartz is likely the better option.

Style and Design Options

While both marble and quartz have beautiful options available, their aesthetics are quite distinct. Marble pieces will have a simply natural elegance and include veining that is only found in that particular piece of stone. Therefore, if you already know you want a unique solid surface out of natural material, marble will be hard to surpass; every slab will be genuinely unique. On the other hand, quartz-made surface materials will have many more possibilities for design because it is a manufactured product, and you could pick from a number of colors, finishes, and patterns, including patterns that look like natural marble. If you have strict specifications for the color scheme you are working within or would like a more uniform look, quartz has a lot more advantage in what you can accomplish.

Cost Considerations

Budget is often a deciding factor with countertop materials. Marble is regarded as a luxury stone, and therefore, its price is justified based on luxury and natural beauty. The price range can vary according to type of marble and location. Although quartz is also a premium material, quartz may have a more consistent cost because it is manufactured. Whether you choose marble or quartz, you are making an investment, but quartz elements are typically less costly with respect to original cost, maintenance, and durability. If you want a surface with less upkeep for years to come, quartz is a possibly cheaper option.

Where Each Material Works Best

Both marble and quartz can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas, but each material has some strengths that make them better suited for certain spaces. Marble is often chosen for bathroom vanities and fireplace surrounds or to stand out as a luxurious look without heavy wear and tear. Quartz is suited for a high-traffic area, such as kitchen countertops, laundry rooms, or commercial spaces, where durability is a must. Some homeowners even mix and match these materials, for example, using quartz for work surfaces and marble for decorative features, in order to get the best of both applications.

Making the Right Choice

Ultimately the decision between marble and quartz will depend on your style, lifestyle, and budget. For those who enjoy natural stone, don’t mind the maintenance that comes along with it, and enjoy the idea of having a one-off look, marble could be your perfect fit. If you enjoy low-maintenance surfaces that provide consistent beauty and durability, quartz is a terrific option. Both options provide value and elegance to the home. So regardless of which option you choose, you can feel good about investing in your home. A trusted supplier can help you compare slabs in person and provide expertise that supports your needs.

FAQs

Is marble or quartz more durable for a kitchen?
Quartz is more durable for a kitchen because it is nonporous, resistant to stains, and less likely to scratch or chip. Marble is softer and requires more maintenance, making it better for low-traffic areas.

Can quartz look like marble?
Yes, many quartz countertops are designed to mimic the veining and color of marble while offering greater durability and easier maintenance.

Does marble always need sealing?
Yes, marble countertops should be sealed regularly to protect them from stains and damage. Sealing helps maintain their beauty and keeps them looking new for years.

At Kowalski Granite & Quartz, we have an unparalleled selection of granite, quartz, and solid stone countertops for your home. At any given time, our West Michigan showroom holds over 200 full slabs in over 80 color variations, including granite, quartz, quartzite, and eco-friendly recycled materials. Come stop by today—no appointment necessary!