Since many homeowners prefer the appearance of stone in their kitchens, quartz, and marble are two of the most often used materials for countertops.
Countertops of quartz or marble improve a room’s aesthetics and depth. Both are available in various hues that complement modern, classic, and transitional house designs.
Although marble and quartz have close looks, they differ significantly as countertop materials.
When choosing between both options, there are several aspects to consider, including pricing, ongoing maintenance, durability, and cost.
Use this guide on marble countertops vs. quartz countertops to determine which is better for your house.
What Exactly are Marble and Quartz?
Marble is a natural stone used for centuries as a construction material. From Julius Caesar to Michelangelo, marble has been employed in the most magnificent structures and works of art ever made by emperors and artists. The metamorphic rock known as marble may be found worldwide and is available in various hues, including white, blue, pink, and gray. The earth’s aesthetic influence may be seen in each piece of the best marble, which is transparent.
Quartz countertops are created artificially. Quartzite, a naturally occurring stone considered an “engineered stone,” makes quartz for countertops. Quartzite is crushed into a powder, combined with resin and colors, and then molded into slabs that may be used like natural stone.
Comparing the Appearance of Quartz vs. Marble
Marble is a natural stone, but quartz is a man-made stone, which is the main distinction between the two choices. No two marble pieces are precisely the same because they are natural stones.
Most quartz used to make quartz is pulverized, with a minor amount of synthetic components included.
The overall look of quartz may be more consistent than marble since it is manufactured in a factory. You may choose a quartz countertop and be sure it will appear exactly like that in your house by physically inspecting a slab. This isn’t the case with marble, though.
Quartz countertops offer infinite color and design choices; marble countertops offer a more constrained selection.
Marble is breathtaking, and there is no disputing that. It is impossible to match the rich white stone enhanced by lovely veining in a pattern that can only be seen in nature.
While marble is a fragile stone that will eventually reveal its age, many individuals have grown to cherish and appreciate it.
Marble might not be the best option if you prefer the worn appearance of butcher block or soapstone. You must be okay that marble will gradually etch, exhibit scratches, and patina over time. If you haven’t already, consider investigating quartzite. A natural stone called quartzite has a quartz-like appearance rather than granite.
Comparing the Durability of Quartz vs. Marble
Although marble is lovely, it isn’t very long-lasting. Lemon juice, vinegar, and tomato sauce are examples of acidic liquids. They all can cause marble’s polished surface to erode, leaving matte white stains in its place. Etching is what this is known as, and polishing can fix it.
Marble is also prone to stunning, a result of forceful collisions. A large object like a Dutch oven dropped on a marble countertop could leave a white stain.
Despite these drawbacks, marble has a higher heat resistance than quartz. Quartz withstands temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, but it might be burnt or scorched if it touches a hot skillet.
Contrarily, Carrara marble has a more significant heat threshold of 480 degrees; however, heat resistance might differ amongst different varieties of marble.
Quartz countertops are more resilient to etching, cracking, chipping, and staining than granite.
Comparing the Maintenance of Quartz vs. Marble
Quartz is formed from natural crushed stone, and as a result of this method, it requires little upkeep. You don’t need to polish and seal it while cleaning it using a cleaner suited for quartz surfaces.
In contrast, maintaining Marble is an entirely other game.
Marble is porous since it is a natural stone. According to marble installers, countertops should be sealed when first installed and every three to six months after that.
You may have read that etching and staining are common problems with marble worktops. The goal of sealing is to stop discoloration, not etching.
With marble, etching is extremely difficult to avoid and is just a fact of life. Although it is annoying to seal marble countertops so regularly, it doesn’t take much time.
However, hiring a specialist for repairs is usually necessary if marble cracks. Quartz countertops, therefore, have an advantage in terms of upkeep.
Comparing the Cost of Quartz vs. Marble
Even though actual costs vary and depend on several variables (such as your region, the kind of marble or quartz you choose, and the design of your kitchen or bathroom), there is a definite difference between installed marble and quartz countertops.
Marble countertops cost $75 to $250 per square foot, not including installation. HomeAdvisor says the average cost to install quartz countertops in the U.S. is between $3,000 and $7,500. Installing quartz countertops costs between $50 and $200 per square foot. On the other hand, depending on the marble type selected, marble countertop materials and installation vary considerably.
Comparing Which One is More Heat Resistance between Quartz vs. Marble
It wouldn’t be because one is more heat resistant if you were seeking another reason to choose one countertop material over the other. You shouldn’t place hot objects straight from the stove or oven onto marble or quartz.
Quartz countertops can endure temperatures of about 150 degrees and are heat-resistant. Epoxy glue’s resin will get discolored if it gets too hot. Hot pots and pans should be set on trivets rather than the counter’s surface to avoid thermal shock.
Marble countertops can tolerate temperatures up to 200 degrees hotter than quartz! Trivets, like quartz, are advised while handling hot pots and pans. Due to its resistance to fading and ability to tolerate heat from sparks, this stone is also a popular option for fireplaces.
Comparing Which One is More Stain Resistance between Quartz vs. Marble
Marble is porous, much like other natural stones, and is quickly affected by acidic substances. This implies that it may discolor if you unintentionally spill red wine on marble surfaces and do not wipe it up quickly.
There is no getting around the fact that you will need to be cautious about stains when using a marble countertop. Meals like tomato sauce, coffee, and red wine can leave permanent stains. Acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar can bring on etching. Additionally, oily meals might discolor the surface.
It is not porous, unlike man-made stone quartz; thus, stains are not a concern. Wet garments make for simple cleanup. Quartz countertops are the most excellent option if you plan to cook frequently and are a dirty chef since they are exceptionally stain-resistant.
The Verdict
While there is no “best” option, comparing marble countertops vs. quartz countertops reveals that both have specific benefits and drawbacks. The best choice for you will rely on your lifestyle, financial situation, and aesthetic preferences.
Quartz is an excellent option if you want highly durable kitchen worktops. They have a variety of colors and patterns and require little upkeep. If you want to add elegance and natural beauty to your home, marble is a great choice. However, it must be maintained so that it continues to shine wonderfully.
