Marble Unlimited offers a variety of quality products. Many of these varieties are used for countertop applications; however, different types of stone have specific properties that offer advantages or disadvantages in various applications. The following is an overview of the different varieties of natural stone that we offer at Marble Unlimited.

Granite is the most popular stone type used in countertop applications today. Granite is composed of many different types of materials. To name a few, these stones are known geologically as diabase, anorthosite, diorite, gabbro, and gneiss. These stones are some of the hardest of the common countertop stones, which in turn offer high levels of resistance to abrasion, scratching and heat. The primary minerals in granite are resistant to almost all chemicals commonly found in a home; however, there may be trace minerals present in some granites and granite-like stones that are vulnerable to some acids. With its hardness, resistance to abrasion and scratches, beautiful colour variations & textures, granite is the stone of choice for kitchen countertop applications.

Marble is traditionally known for its aesthetic appeal, accentuated by unique veining, bold colours and patterns. Marble is relatively softer than granite, although some marble types are as dense as some granites. Marble can be scratched by kitchen utensils, therefore, we recommend the use of cutting boards and trivets for hot objects. Because marble is a calcium carbonate based material, we recommend using non-abrasive products when cleaning marble as the surface can be etched by chemicals and exposure to acidic solutions like: lemon juice, tomatoes, vinegar, etc. Marble Unlimited applies several applications of sealer to marble, which will reduce, but not eliminate, the vulnerability to acidic attack. You may want to re-apply sealer more often with marble than with granite to protect its surface for many years to come. For these reasons, Marble Unlimited doesn’t recommend marble for use in kitchens, however it is very commonly used in bathroom applications such as vanity countertops, shower and tub enclosures.

Both stone types are calcium based similar to marble. They have the same weaknesses as marbles when used as countertops. Although most of these stone types come with a honed finish there is a concern for abrasion damage particularly if the stone is polished. Once again we do not recommend the use of Limestone and Travertine as a kitchen countertops, however, they are a popular choice for kitchen backsplashes, bathroom applications, and flooring.

Quartz is one of the hardest stone types in the market today and is becoming the most popular and eco-friendly choice for all applications, whether its kitchen and bathroom countertops, backsplashes, walls, flooring etc. Click here to learn more about quartz surfaces and the endless possibilities that it has to offer.