If you’re facing a bathroom remodel, you know there are a lot of elements to consider. The vanity and countertop is one of the most important. Once you decide on stone countertops, the next step is to decide which kind. From granite and marble to quartz and travertine, here are some of the pros and cons of each.
1. Granite
Granite is a natural stone, which means that each and every slab will be unique. Patterns and colors will range from subtle to bold, so you have a wide range of choices. Granite earns top marks for abrasion and heat resistance, and fends off stains quite well. However, it does take a bit of maintenance compared with other countertop materials, including regular sealing. Because it’s in your bathroom and surrounds your sink, be careful not to let too much water sit on it. Wipe up spills immediately.
Pros
- Higher-end designer look
- Long lasting
- Water, stain and scratch resistant
- Easy to clean
- High durability
- Resistant to humidity and heat from hot curling irons, i.e.
Cons
- One of the more expensive countertop materials
- Can be damaged if not taken care of
- Must be sealed every six months to a year
2. Quartz
This is an engineered material, comprised of quartz and other stones mixed in with some resins and pigments that mimic the look of natural stone. Quartz is extremely durable and requires less maintenance than granite, mainly because it doesn’t have to be sealed. This material has a high rating when it comes to resisting stains.
Pros
- Wide range of vibrant tones and natural stone available
- Does not requires sealing or polishing
- Stain, scratch, bacteria and moisture resistant
Cons
- May cost more that high-end marble or granite
- Textured or honed finishes show fingerprints and smudges, which means frequent wiping may be required
- May get damaged by acidic or alkaline chemicals such as bleach, solvents, and abrasive cleansers
3. Marble
The grace and beauty of marble can’t be underestimated. It’s always been known to be high end and very expensive, but in recent years, it has become more affordable. While it’s available in many variants, it typically comes in white with lines of gray.
Pros
- Long lasting, strong and resists most dents and chips
- Can be polished if you want a high shine finish, or you can go with a casual matte finish
- Matches nearly every style
Cons
- Costly
- Susceptible to scratches, stains and etching due to contact with acidic substances, as it is a porous material
- Must be sealed periodically to preserve finish
4. Travertine
Travertine, a luxurious-looking natural stone, is available in a wide range of colors with decorative streaks similar to marble. It’s relatively inexpensive when compared with marble and granite. It does need to be sealed, just like granite. It comes in four finishes: polished, honed, tumbled and brushed.
Pros
- Offers a high-end designer look
- Heat- and moisture-resistant
- Has a creamy appeal that affords a warmer feel to your bathroom
Cons
- Highly reactive to acids
- Must be polished and sealed regularly
- Must wipe up any spills immediately to avoid staining
As you can see, there are many materials to choose from for your bathroom vanity. Still can’t decide? We can help
Contact Granite Guy to ask questions and get a free quote.