Natural stone worktops are sometimes regarded as a luxury in contemporary residences—an upgrade to add when you’ve got the money or want to sell. As a result, some homeowners overlook natural stone counters when making modest updates. After all, why bother looking if it’s going to break the budget?
But in reality, natural stone countertops can be affordable on just about any renovation budget. While different types of stone can come with wildly different price tags, we’re happy to carry options for low, moderate, and high budget projects. So even if you’re looking to save on your next project, natural stone counters may still be in the cards!
The following are some of the most popular natural stone countertops, categorized by price.
Most Budget-Friendly Natural Stone Countertop Material: Granite
Granite is perhaps the most cost-effective of all natural stones. In certain circumstances, granite may be purchased for as little as $40 per square foot.
- Durability
- Toughness
- Heat resistance
- Low maintenance
- Natural patterns and textures that are unique to each other.
Granite countertops, while more expensive than most synthetic countertop choices, are sturdy enough to endure time—which means they may still save you money in the long run.
Best Natural Stone Countertops For Moderate Budgets: Quartz
For homeowners who aren’t crazy about granite but who still want an affordable, durable option, quartz is a fantastic solution. Though quartz slabs are engineered, they’re still created from natural quartz particles—which gives them an organic feel, with more options for personalization and, if needed, repair. Similarly to granite, quartz countertops are:
- Durable
- Scratch-resistant
- Relatively heat resistant
- Low maintenance
They’re also more likely to come in a variety of colors and patterns. The price of quartz countertops can vary depending on a number of factors, but in general, quartz countertops may start as low as $55/square foot.
Best Luxury Natural Stone Countertop Material: Marble
Marble has long been regarded as the top of the line in high-end countertop materials. Marble worktops can’t be beat for people who want to spend a little extra to get that ideal, exquisite, and timeless appearance.
Like it’s less expensive relatives granite and quartz, marble also tends to be:
- Scratch resistant
- Heat resistant
- Tough
Marble, on the other hand, needs a lot more care due to its naturally high porosity. If the marble countertop is not properly sealed, stains or spills in oil-based liquids can mar it. As a result, for practical reasons, marble should only be used by homeowners who are prepared to maintain their countertop over time.
Wondering Which Natural Stone Countertop Material Is Right For Your Family?
As the premier countertop experts in West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, and the DC area, we have decades of expertise pairing families with the best countertop solutions for their projects. Contact us HERE for help deciding which natural stone countertop is right for your needs!