Top Stone Materials for Your Bathroom Vanity
From granite and quartz to marble and travertine, there are lots of stone materials to choose from when redoing your bathroom vanity. With so many elements to consider when facing a bathroom remodel, this is one part that should be fairly easy. Because the vanity and countertops are an important part of the look and feel of your bathroom, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each material before making a decision.
1. Quartz
An engineered material, this is comprised of quartz and other stones, all mixed in with some resins and pigments that can look just like natural stone. Quartz, extremely durable, requires less maintenance than granite because you don’t have to seal it. This material also resists stains very well.
Pros
- Does not require polishing or sealing
- Stain-, scratch-, moisture-, and bacteria-resistant
- Wide range of vibrant tones available
Cons
- Comes at a slightly higher cost than high-end marble or granite
- Textured or honed finishes may reveal fingerprints and smudges, leading to more frequent wiping
- May get damaged by acidic or alkaline chemicals such as bleach, solvents, and abrasive cleansers
2. Marble
The beauty and grace of marble simply cannot be underestimated. This is a material that has always been perceived as being high end and very expensive. However, recently, it has become a bit more affordable to the masses. It comes in many variants, but usually white with lines of gray.
Pros
- Long-lasting, strong and resists most chips and dents
- Can be polished to high-shine finish, or you may choose a casual matte finish
- Matches just about every style
Cons
- Expensive
- Prone to scratches, etching and stains from contact with acidic substances (that’s because it’s a porous material)
- Must be sealed every now and then to preserve finish
3. Granite
Granite, a natural stone, brings a unique look to each and every slab, with patterns and colors ranging from subtle to bold. Granite is great when it comes to resisting heat and abrasions, not to mention stains. You do need to engage in a bit of maintenance, though, as compared with other countertop materials. This includes regular sealing. Because this will be located in your bathroom, don’t allow a lot of water to sit on it. Instead, be sure to wipe up spills immediately.
Pros
- Higher-end designer look
- Longer lasting
- Water-, scratch-, and stain-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Resistant to heat and humidity from showers and hot curling irons
Cons
- Expense
- Can be damaged without proper care and attention
- Should be sealed every six months to a year
4. Travertine
Travertine is a luxurious-looking natural stone, and comes in a wide range of colors with decorative streaks like that of marble. Relatively inexpensive as compared to marble and granite, travertine does need to be sealed. You can get it in one of four finishes: polished, honed, brushed, and tumbled.
Pros
- Heat- and moisture-resistant
- High-end designer look
- Possesses a creamy look for a warmer feel to your bathroom
Cons
- Highly reactive to acids
- Must be sealed and polished regularly
- Spills must be wiped immediately to avoid staining
Contact Granite Guy
We understand it can be a difficult and overwhelming decision to choose the right stone for your bathroom vanity. However, our Metro Boston stone fabricators are here to help. Contact Granite Guy to ask questions and obtain a free quote.