Let’s be honest. You want to have a luxurious aesthetic indoors but are too afraid that it will cost you a fortune. Some are in search of a quartz that has a marble look, the others are looking for a marble slab because they’ve heard how durable, stain-resistant, and heat-resistant it is.
With so many options on the market, you might have a hideous headache. Well, we are here to calm you down and break down everything you need to know before purchasing the right stone starting from the comparison, and installation, and finishing with the cost differences. Let’s take a look at these most popular materials that will suit your kitchen countertop.
Marble is a metamorphic rock that starts as limestone or dolomite. Through intense heat and pressure, it transforms into the veined, white stone that is used for sculptures, lofty architecture, and luxurious marble countertops found in homes today. In 2024 the trendiest marble type for countertops is Carrara marble which adds timeless elegance to the design and correlates with many different styles.
Quartz is one of the earth’s most common minerals. Its abundant colors produce many gemstones used in jewelry. Some prevailing forms of quartz are amethyst, agate, rose quartz, carnelian, onyx, jasper, and tiger’s eye. One of the most frequent questions we hear is “What quartz type looks like marble?” and the answer is Calacatta. Its white background and dramatic gray veining closely mimic the aesthetics of marble still having all the advantages of quartz counters. If you want to explore the wide diversity of quartz options, check our collection.
Now that we’ve figured out what these materials are, let’s take a look at their differences.
Many homeowners prefer quartz or marble countertops depending on their unique needs for durability, appearance, and maintenance. Below is a side-by-side comparison that highlights the key features of both materials, helping you to choose the material that best fits your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.
| Feature | Quartz | Marble |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear or milky, with smooth or flecked patterns. Mimics natural stone with controlled designs. | Mostly white with unique gray veins. Each slab is one-of-a-kind. |
| Durability | Very strong and non-porous. Resists stains and bacteria. | Porous and needs sealing. Prone to staining and scratches. |
| Heat Resistance | Handles up to 150°F. Can discolor with high heat. Use trivets. | Withstands up to 200°F. Better for high heat, but trivets are still recommended. |
Whether you plan to install a stunning marble or a sleek quartz surface, proper maintenance is key to preserving its beauty and functionality. Let’s explore the essential tips and tricks to keep your countertop sparkling for years to come. Let’s explore the essential tips and tricks to keep your countertop sparkling for years to come.
Taking care of natural material might be challenging with no previous experience but do not worry! Check out our blogs dedicated to marble countertop aftercare and caring for quartz countertops.
If you’re planning on installing a stone countertop yourself, we prepared a guide that will help you to cut, install and finish quartz and marble countertops. Let’s dive in!
Since these both materials are natural stones, they have some similar steps in installation but also have additional things that are necessary to notice. By following these combined steps, you’ll have a clear, cohesive process for installing either a marble or quartz countertop.
Measure the space where the countertop will be installed, making sure to include any cutouts for sinks or fixtures. Also, consider overhangs and edge finishes.
Make sure your base cabinets are clean, level, and secure. If they aren’t level, use shims (wood or plastic) to adjust.
Tip: Use a level to check the surface in multiple areas.
Place the countertop slab on top of the cabinets to check the fit. Ensure that sink cutouts and overhangs are accurate.
Carefully lower the countertop onto the adhesive, ensuring that it fits snugly in place.
After positioning the marble countertop, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough or sharp edges.
If your countertop has multiple pieces, apply seam adhesive where the pieces join. Clamp the sections together tightly and remove any excess adhesive using a utility knife.
Because marble is porous, you need to apply a marble sealer after installation to protect the surface from stains and moisture. Use a clean cloth to apply the sealer, following the product instructions.
Wipe down the countertop to remove any adhesive residue. Use rubbing alcohol and a clean cloth for quartz, while a damp cloth will work for marble.
Once the adhesive has fully set (typically 24 hours), remove any clamps and do a final check for levelness and smooth edges. Ensure the seams are secure and even.
Do not hesitate to reach for professional installation in case you had no experience in choosing quartz and marble slabs for countertops installation. Both installation processes are complicated and are best done by professionals who measure, level, and secure the stone slabs on kitchen or bathroom counters.
Quartz vs. marble costs vary. Besides the obvious, such as countertop size, you should also weigh up costs in terms of maintenance time and not just the initial financial outlay.
Quartz countertops are cheaper than marble countertops, but the labor cost of installation is usually more expensive. On average, quartz countertops cost between $50 to $150 per square foot, excluding installation costs. If you live in Chicago and are thinking of buying quartz but don’t know the average prices, check our blog that shows prices on quartz in 2024.
Marble countertops cost approximately $75–$250 per square foot, excluding labor for installation, finished edging, and sink cutouts. So, is marble or quartz more expensive? Generally, marble tends to be slightly pricier, but the cost is dependent on the size and quality of the stone. If you need more information on marble costs you can check our blog that provides a guide to marble prices.
Choosing between quartz and marble countertops can be a tough decision for homeowners. Whether you prioritize the natural beauty and uniqueness of marble or the durability and low maintenance of quartz, understanding these differences can help guide your choice. Below is a helpful comparison table that breaks down the key pros and cons of each material, making it easier to see which one fits your needs.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Marble | Unique, natural veining and beauty | Porous, needs regular sealing to prevent stains |
| Timeless, luxurious appearance | Susceptible to etching and scratching | |
| Heat-resistant (up to 200°F) | More prone to damage from impacts | |
| Adds value to property | High maintenance (requires frequent care) | |
| Quartz | Extremely durable and resistant to damage | Less heat-resistant (up to 150°F), can discolor with high heat |
| Non-porous, resists stains and bacteria | Manufactured look (lacks natural uniqueness) | |
| Low maintenance (no sealing required) | Visible seams in larger installations | |
| Wide variety of designs, including natural stone replicas | Can be more expensive than certain marbles |
Overall, no natural stone is superior to the other. Truthfully, it depends on your individual and aesthetic preferences and needs. Quartz, unlike marble, is more durable, whereas marble is more heat-resistant. Since marble is not a conductor, it provides a cool work surface, but its upkeep can be demanding. Marble countertops are best for those who prioritize natural beauty and elegance but are willing to invest in higher maintenance like immediate cleaning and regular sealing, while quartz surfaces are ideal for those seeking durability, ease of care, and consistency in appearance.
Explore Our Collection! Discover the perfect countertops for your kitchen. Browse our extensive collection to find the natural material just for you.
At Granite Selection, we specialize in designing, fabricating, and installing premium marble and quartz countertops. We offer over 20 varieties of marble and 100 different types of quartz to suit all our customers’ needs. Our excellent craftsmanship ensures our countertops are built to last. Contact us today to find out how we can install your dream countertop.
Do you have questions about granite or quartz countertops in Chicago?
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