Quartz

Quartz is man-made material that imitates marble look and Other natural stones. 

Heat Resistance

Although it is safe to put hot products on Quartz countertop it is not recommended to place objects that are directly transferred from the oven or are extremely hot. Since Quartz has components of epoxy and resin it is not recommended for wood or gas-burning fireplace.

Scratch Resistance

Quartz is scratch resistant, however it does not mean that you can't scratch it. If a sharp knife is used it can be scratched or it can chip if a heavy object is dropped on it.

Durability

Quartz can chip if something heavy is dropped on it, especially on an edge.

Stain Resistance

Quartz generally is durable, however, it still can stain if liquid is left on it for a prolonged time.

Care & Maintenance

For everyday cleaning use soap and water.  

For heavier stainless use Bar Keeper's Friend. Do not use harsh chemicals.

Marble

Marble is a natural stone that has been used since ancient times. It comes in a variety of colors and finishes.  It can be honed, polished, or brushed.

Heat Resistance

Marble is heat resistant and can withstand high temperatures. Can be used indoors and outdoor and its the preferred choice for fireplaces.

Scratch Resistance

It is a softer material that scratches easily and it is not recommended for kitchen countertops.

Durability

Will scratch, chip, and etch. 

Stain Resistance

Is not stain resistant, it is recommended to clean and seal your marble often.

Care & Maintenance

For everyday cleaning use soap and water. Avoid any harsh chemicals.

Do not leave lemon, vinegar, oil, or any acidic substances.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that has been used throughout the ages. It comes in a variety of colors, however, it does not come with consistent patterns. It is not white.

Heat Resistance

Granite is heat resistant and is recommended for outdoor or indoor use.

Scratch Resistance

Granite is a very hard material, however, it can be scratched if a sharp knife or other cutting utensils are used on it. Always use a cutting board, do not cut directly on granite

Durability

Granite is very durable, however, since its a natural stone, it can chip or crack if something heavy is dropped on it. This happens most commonly around the sink area when heavy pots or pans hit the surface during washing. No worries though, chips and small fissures can be repaired. 

Stain Resistance

Granite is stain resistant if properly maintained.  It is recommended to seal it once a year.  Avoid using any harsh chemicals or any acidic materials that can damage granite. 

Care & Maintenance

For everyday cleaning use soap and water.  Reseal it once a year to avoid staining.

Quartzite

Quartzite is one of the hardest of the natural stones.

Heat Resistance

Quartzite is heat resistant and can be used both indoor and outdoor

Scratch Resistance

Quartzite is scratch resistant, however, if a very sharp object is used on the surface it can be scratched

Durability

One of the most durable of all natural stones; it is a harder material than granite, marble, and quartz.

Stain Resistance

If sealed properly, it will not stain easily. It is recommended to seal it about 4-7 times in the first months. 

Care & Maintenance

Soap and water are the best cleaner for Quartzite. Avoid any harsh chemicals or acidic liquids or items. 

Dolomite

Dolomite is harder then marble but softer than granite.

Heat Resistance

Dolomite is heat resistant and can be used both indoor and outdoor

Scratch Resistance

Dolomite is likely to get a scratch with glass and metal, so a cutting board is highly advisable.

Durability

It's harder than Marble and can last for decades if taken care of properly.

Stain Resistance

If sealed properly, it will not stain easily. It is recommended to seal it annually, it depends on the specific piece of stone.

Care & Maintenance

Soap and water are the best cleaner for Dolomite. Avoid any harsh chemicals or acidic liquids or items. 

Porcelain

Porcelain is about 30% stronger than granite

Heat Resistance

Porcelain is very heat resistant and can be used both indoor and outdoor

Scratch Resistance

Porcelain is as resistant to scratches as Granite and Quartz

Durability

It's harder than Marble and can last for decades if taken care of properly.

Stain Resistance

The porcelain surface is completely waterproof.

Care & Maintenance

Very easy to clean and no maintenance required. Paper towel with some water will take care of most spills, worst case you might need some neutral cleaner.

Soapstone

Soapstone close to the hardness of granite and quartz.

Heat Resistance

Soapstone is heat resistant and can be used both indoor and outdoor. You wont have to worry about any discolorations if you leave hot things on the stone

Scratch Resistance

Soapstone is likely to get a scratch with glass and metal, so a cutting board is highly advisable. If a scratch occurs you may find it easy to remove the scratch with some sanding paper and mineral oil.

Durability

Soapstone is able to last for over 20 years, due to its durability.

Stain Resistance

It's a non-porous stone, so it wont stain.

Care & Maintenance

First few months, spread mineral oil on the countertop with a clean rag about once a week.