Comparison of Natural Stone Countertops

Granite

• Brazil, India and China export two-thirds of all granite slabs. Colors include black, white, red and everything in between. Prized for its durability, granite makes the ideal countertop surface. The stone withstands temperatures up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit and resists scratches. Sealed granite countertops defy stains. The porosity varies by species; some types of granite rarely require sealing. Although most granite slabs do not emit high levels of radon, some exotic types pose a concern. Request a radon test if you're apprehensive. Whenever possible, purchase granite from local quarries and mines to mitigate environmental concerns. Importing granite from faraway regions requires considerable energy.

Slate

• Fabricators offer slate slabs in your choice of black, gray, green-blue, red or purple. Slate surfaces possess more color consistency than granite. Because of its nonporous nature, slate requires less maintenance than other natural stone countertops. When scratches occur, simply buff the marks away with a wet steel wool pad. Often used on high-end billiard tables, slate only breaks under excessive pressure, and it resists chemical spills better than granite. Although slate slabs offer a matte appearance, you can apply lemon oil to achieve a more glossy sheen.

Marble

• Homeowners use marble less often than other natural stone materials because of its high cost. Marble works well in bathrooms, but be mindful of the difficulties associated with using this soft stone in the kitchen. Because of its calcite crystal composition, marble incurs damage from mild acids and spills. Some homeowners enjoy the patina of marble and don't object to the inevitable stains and blemishes that transpire with its use. Regular sealing prevents deep stains from appearing. Pastry chefs and avid cooks appreciate marble's cold surface, which helps dough remain stiff and cool during the kneading process.

Soapstone

• To stay true to period, owners of historic homes often choose soapstone. The soft stone starts out gray but turns a deeper, mottled black as time passes. Because of its soft nature, fabricators and homeowners alike can easily cut soapstone with a circular saw. Like other porous stones, soapstone requires periodic applications of mineral oil. Soapstone involves more maintenance than slate or granite but the material offers a high resistance to heat. The surface scratches easily, but some homeowners enjoy its imperfect patina.

Limestone

• Because of its calcium carbonate base, limestone is sensitive to acids that are commonplace in kitchens. Designers and homeowners alike appreciate the fossilized appearance of limestone. Available in shades of buff and beige, the surface requires periodic sealing to reduce staining. No matter how well you seal limestone, stains will inevitably surface after regular use. As with soapstone and marble, you may appreciate the patina that develops over time. Bleach may remove some food stains. Citrus fruits, tomatoes and vinegar can etch limestone, so clean up spills immediately.