Granite is tougher than most common countertop options like Formica, and it stands up well to regular wear and tear. Because granite is such a hard material, it resists scratches–cutting on it will damage your knives, but not your counters! Another advantage granite has over other materials is that it resists heat. Formed over thousands of years from compressed molten rock under the Earth’s surface, granite is extremely hard and durable. With its heat-resistant qualities, granite doesn’t blister; it’s also unlikely to scratch or chip. When used for kitchen countertops, it’s far superior to synthetics and laminate. Granite is one of the oldest and most durable building products available today, and will far outlast the building in which it’s installed. It’s become the material of choice for today’s luxury homes and offices because of its enduring beauty.

Marble countertops are bright, elegant and add character to any space. Few counter options can match its beauty and timelessness. But maintenance and wear ability concerns often come up in conversations we have with clients about marble. It is definitely not as hardy or maintenance free as some other counters you could get, although going with one of the harder marbles and using a good sealer minimize those issues. Marble is commonly produced in honed, polished or leathered finishes. A honed finish is a matte finish, not shiny. Leathered is also not shiny and has a slight texture to it. The honed or leathered is the easiest wearing and what we recommend you use when purchasing marble countertops because it won’t allow etching. Etching is a dull spot produced from acidic foods after leaving them on your countertop for a long period of time. Proper cleaning and maintenance, such as wiping up a spill right when it happens instead of letting it sit for a while and being careful about sliding heavy pots across the surface will have an effect on how your marble countertops wear over time. Marble has a classic, timeless beauty, with a white brightness not available in granite or soapstone.

Quartzite is a very hard metamorphic rock that originated as sandstone. Through a process of high heating and pressurization sandstone is transformed into Quartzite, an extremely strong and durable natural stone. … Quartzite is ideal for any countertop surface due to its strength and long-lasting composition. Quartzite is harder than granite, so it is quite durable. Quartzite is heat-resistant so it won’t be damaged if you accidentally put a hot pan or plate on the counter and when properly sealed it won’t be damaged by spilled sauces and juices. Keep in mind that quartzite also offers a resistance to absorption and a high hardness rating. Quartzite is extremely popular not only because of its durability, hardness, resistance to heat,scratches and water absorption, but also because it looks a lot like marble and has granite like properties.

Soapstone is a natural stone, like granite, that is quarried. It’s composed mostly of mineral talc, which makes it quite soft, but soapstone used for countertops typically has higher percentages of quartz in it, which makes it harder and more suitable as a kitchen surface. Depending on the region where it’s quarried, soapstone ranges in color from soft white and light gray to deep charcoal, with most types exhibiting gentle veining. Some contains hints of pearl, blue or green, but the most prevalent hues are whites and gray. Because of its resilience and adaptability, soapstone can be used for much more than countertops; it works well as sinks, fireplace surrounds (thanks to its heat resistance), flooring, and throughout the bathroom. It’s also a great choice for outdoor counters and sinks as it’s impervious to weather and bacteria. With minimum care, your new countertop can retain its good looks for many years. Enhance your counter’s natural darkening progression by applying mineral oil to the surface and rubbing it in thoroughly. Applying mineral oil to the Soapstone countertop keeps it from looking dry and helps restore its luster and sheen. You can age your countertops with mineral oil as much as you like but a few times a year is usually sufficient. The more you oil the better they are at absorption resistance. Clean soapstone countertops with an all-purpose kitchen cleaner or mild soap and a dishrag. Chop and dice food on a cutting board, not on your countertop.

1061 Old Middleton Rd
Elberton, Georgia 30635

181 US-64 Suite B
Cashiers, North Carolina 28717