Revered for its durability and natural beauty
Stone is the choice of many designers, adding character and warmth to any room. Sourced from the earth, stone is made from a number of minerals, typically including 20% quartz. All stone has natural variations in colour, veining and speckling for a one-of-a-kind surface. It’s naturally resistant to heat and water and, with our 25-year sealant and minimal care, it can stand the test of time.
The most common natural stones used to make countertops include granite, soapstone and slate. Here's a brief look at each material.
Granite, once found only in expensive, high-end kitchens, is more commonplace today and is by far the most popular natural stone countertop material. Granite counters are sold primarily through local fabricators, but they're also available at many home centers and kitchen showrooms. The latest player in this market, DuPont (maker of Corian), sells granite countertops through its network of certified fabricators. Granite comes in a wide array of colors, ranging from vibrant blues and variegated browns, to midnight black, deep red and mottled white. It's cut into long, thick slabs that require few--if any--seams. Most fabricators routinely make one-piece granite counters up to 10 ft long. After cutting and polishing, the granite is treated with an impregnating sealer that makes the countertop stain resistant. This treatment usually lasts 10 to 15 years, but be sure to use a stone cleaner--not an abrasive cleanser--for everyday cleaning. The widespread popularity and availability of granite has stabilized prices somewhat, but it's not exactly cheap. Expect to pay between $75 to more than $250 per sq ft, depending on the granite color and complexity of the fabrication.
Soapstone and slate both come in far fewer colors than granite. Soapstone is usually dark greenish-black, although lighter green-gray slabs are also common. Slate is an extremely dense stone that comes in five subtle colors: green, red, gray, purple and black. Slightly less common are variegated purple and mottled purple slates, which have visible veins and shades of contrasting colors. Both soapstone and slate can be fabricated into sinks to match the countertop. Soapstone is porous, and must be sealed with mineral oil to reduce staining. Slate, on the other hand, is nonporous and virtually maintenance free. Slate is relatively soft, but scratches can be buffed out with steel wool. Slate has a soft, matte sheen, but you can create a wet look by rubbing the slate with lemon oil. Slate countertops cost roughly $100 to $200 per sq ft, depending on the fabrication. Soapstone is priced comparably with midrange granite: $100 to $150 per sq ft.