Last Updated on June 4, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
If you’re in the market for a new countertop, you’ve probably come across both quartz and marble as options. So, which one should you choose? In this blog post, we’ll compare quartz vs marble countertops so that you can make an informed decision. Both materials have their pros and cons, but in the end, one might be a better fit for your home than the other.
Quartz countertops.
What are quartz countertops?
Quartz countertops are a type of manmade stone that is composed of 90% ground quartz and other materials such as pigments, resins, and binders. Quartz countertops are extremely durable and heat resistant, making them a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Quartz countertops are also non-porous, meaning they resist stains and are easy to clean.
Pros of quartz countertops:
-Quartz is a very strong and durable material, making it ideal for countertops. It is also heat resistant and scratch resistant.
-Quartz is a non-porous material, meaning it does not absorb liquids or other materials. This makes it very easy to clean and maintain.
-Quartz comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, so you can find the perfect look for your kitchen or bathroom.
-Quartz is a low-maintenance material, requiring only occasional sealing and polishing.
Cons of quartz countertops:
-Quartz is one of the hardest minerals on earth, so it is very durable. However, this also means that it is difficult to cut and shape, making it a less popular choice for countertops.
-Quartz is also a man-made material, so it may not have the same natural beauty as granite or marble.
-Quartz is also a non-porous material, so it is more resistant to stains and bacteria. However, this also means that it is more difficult to repair if it does get damaged.
Marble countertops.
What are marble countertops?
Marble countertops are a popular choice for many homeowners. They are beautiful and add a luxurious look to any kitchen or bathroom. Marble is also very durable and easy to care for. However, there are a few things you should know before you choose marble for your countertops.
Marble is a natural stone that is quarried from the earth. It is then cut into slabs and polished. Marble comes in a variety of colors, from light to dark. The most popular marble countertop colors are white, black, and grey.
Marble is a porous material, which means it can absorb liquids and stains. You will need to seal your marble countertops to protect them from stains. Marble is also susceptible to scratches and etching. You should avoid putting hot pans directly on your marble countertops and use cutting boards when preparing food.
Pros of marble countertops:
-Marble countertops are heat resistant.
-Marble countertops are stain resistant.
-Marble countertops are scratch resistant.
-Marble countertops add value to your home.
Cons of marble countertops:
-Marble is a soft stone and can be scratched or chipped relatively easily.
-Marble countertops require regular sealing and maintenance to prevent staining.
– Marble is a heat sensitive material and can stain easily from spills, so it’s important to use coasters and trivets.
– Marble countertops can be expensive, depending on the quality and source of the marble.
– Because it is a natural material, each piece of marble is unique and no two countertops will look identical.
Quartz countertops vs. marble countertops
Appearance.
Marble countertops have a classic, timeless look that many homeowners love. Quartz countertops are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, so you can find the perfect match for your kitchen design.
When it comes to appearance, both quartz and marble countertops have their own unique benefits. If you’re trying to decide between the two, it’s important to consider your personal style and the overall look you’re trying to achieve in your kitchen.
If you’re looking for a classic, elegant look, marble countertops are a great option. Marble comes in a variety of colors, from light ivory to dark gray. You can also find marble countertops with veining in different colors, which can add a unique touch to your kitchen.
Color.
It’s one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a countertop material. And when it comes to quartz and marble, there are some big differences.
Quartz countertops come in a wide range of colors, from classic white to deep black and everything in between. You can also find them in a variety of patterns and textures, giving you a lot of options to create the perfect look for your kitchen.
Marble countertops, on the other hand, are limited to a few natural colors like white, black, and gray. While you can find marble in other colors, it’s usually dyed or artificially enhanced, which can impact its durability.
Price.
For some homeowners, price is the ultimate deciding factor. When comparing quartz vs. marble countertops, it’s important to keep in mind that both options range widely in price. Generally, however, quartz tends to be more expensive than marble.
If you’re working with a limited budget, marble may be the better option for you. However, if price isn’t as big of a concern, quartz countertops may be worth the investment.
Durability.
Quartz is a harder material than marble and therefore, more resistant to scratches and chips. Quartz is also non-porous, making it more resistant to staining than marble.
In terms of durability, quartz countertops are a better choice than marble countertops. However, quartz countertops do require some maintenance. You should seal your quartz countertops every six months to prevent staining.
Overall, quartz countertops are more durable than marble countertops. If you’re looking for a countertop that will last for years to come, quartz is the way to go.
Radon.
You may have never heard of radon, but it’s a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can be found in many homes. While it’s not a health hazard at low levels, high levels of radon can be dangerous.
So, what does this have to do with countertops? Well, granite and other natural stone countertops can contain radon, and when the countertops are installed, the radon can be released into the air.
Quartz countertops, on the other hand, do not contain radon.
Heat Resistance.
Quartz countertops are heat resistant and can withstand temperatures of up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. On the other hand, marble countertops are not as heat resistant and can only withstand temperatures of up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. So, if you’re looking for a countertop that can withstand higher temperatures, quartz is the better option.
Another factor to consider is the heat conductivity of each material. Quartz has a lower heat conductivity than marble, meaning it will retain heat less and cool down faster. Marble, on the other hand, has a higher heat conductivity, meaning it will retain heat longer.
Scratch resistance.
Quartz is harder than marble, so it is more resistant to scratches. However, both quartz and marble can be scratched by sharp objects.
If you are looking for a countertop that is completely scratch-resistant, then quartz is the better option. However, if you don’t mind a few scratches here and there, then marble will be just fine.
Environmental Issues.
Quartz is one of the most popular countertop materials on the market, and for good reason. It’s strong, durable, and easy to care for. But what about its environmental impact?
Marble is a natural stone that has been used in countertops for centuries. Unlike quartz, it is not man-made, so it has a smaller environmental impact.
However, marble is a porous material, which means it can stain easily and is difficult to keep clean. Quartz is non-porous, so it’s more resistant to staining and easier to keep clean.
When it comes to environmental impact, quartz countertops are the clear winner.
Home Resale Value.
When it comes to home resale value, quartz countertops are a clear winner over marble. While both materials can increase the value of your home, quartz is prized by homebuyers for its durability and low maintenance requirements. Marble, on the other hand, requires regular sealing and care to prevent staining – two factors that can discourage potential buyers.
In short, if you’re looking to add value to your home through countertop upgrades, quartz is the way to go. Not only will it add more value than marble, but it will also be easier to care for in the long run.
Fabrication.
There are a few key differences between quartz and marble countertops when it comes to fabrication.
First, quartz is man-made while marble is a natural stone. This means that quartz is more consistent in both color and pattern, while marble can vary greatly from one piece to the next.
Second, quartz is much harder than marble, so it can be cut and shaped more easily. Finally, quartz is non-porous, meaning it won’t absorb liquids or stains the way marble can.
Installation.
Quartz is a bit easier to install than marble. With the right tools and some elbow grease, most homeowners can install quartz countertops without professional help. However, marble is a little trickier to install. Unless you have experience working with stone, we recommend hiring a professional to handle the installation process.
Repairs And Replacements.
When it comes to repairing or replacing your countertops, quartz is the clear winner. While marble is a stunning material, it is also much more delicate and prone to damage. Quartz is significantly more durable and resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks.
If you do happen to damage your quartz countertop, it is much easier and less expensive to repair than marble. And, if you ever decide to replace your countertops entirely, quartz is again the better option.
Because they are so much more durable and easier to care for, quartz countertops will save you money in the long run – both in repairs and replacements.
Maintenance.
While both quartz and marble countertops are beautiful and luxurious, they each have different maintenance requirements. Quartz is a man-made material that is non-porous and very durable. It resists stains and does not need to be sealed. Marble, on the other hand, is a natural stone that is porous and must be sealed periodically. It is also more prone to staining and scratching.
So, which countertop is right for you? If you are looking for a low-maintenance option, quartz is the way to go. But if you love the natural beauty of marble, be prepared to put in a little extra work to keep it looking its best.
Quartz countertops vs. marble countertops: Final Verdict.
After a long and hard-fought battle, we have finally come to a conclusion. So, which one is the better countertop material?
It was a close call, but we have to give the victory to quartz countertops. While marble countertops are undeniably beautiful, they simply can’t compete with the durability and versatility of quartz.
More countertop comparisons:
FAQs
Why is quartz better than marble?
Quartz is a harder material than marble, meaning it is more durable and less likely to scratch or chip. Quartz is also non-porous, so it resists staining from spills and does not require sealing.
Additionally, quartz requires less maintenance than marble – simply wiping it down with soap and water is usually sufficient. Finally, quartz comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, so you can find an option to suit any taste. For all these reasons, quartz is typically the better choice for countertops and other high-use surfaces.
Does quartz look as good as marble?
Quartz is a beautiful, natural stone that has many of the same properties as marble. It is durable and easy to care for, making it a popular choice for countertops and other surfaces in the home. However, because it is not as widely used as marble, some people question whether or not it looks as good.
The answer to this question is that it depends on your personal preference. Quartz has a unique look that some people love and others find too modern. If you are considering quartz for your home, it is important to look at samples of the stone in person to decide if it is the right choice for you.
Which is more stain resistant quartz or marble?
Quartz is a natural stone that is highly resistant to staining and marble is a metamorphic rock that is also resistant to staining. However, marble is more susceptible to scratches than quartz. If you are looking for a material that is both stain and scratch resistant, quartz may be the better option for you.