Comparing the performance attributes of natural stone with manmade materials

Interior Design

Styles may change from season to season, but Mother Nature creates unique designs in natural stone that are historically innovative and always on trend. This is why natural stone remains a timeless and flexible option for many interior applications including countertops and flooring. The variety of natural stone available is also beautiful, durable, and versatile, offering endless possibilities for interiors.

Manmade materials often attempt to emulate or replicate these characteristics and qualities. It is essential to understand how natural stone compares to some of the manmade materials used for the same applications in order to select the most appropriate material. It is also important to know how the material chosen for an interior project will perform under a variety of circumstances, conditions, and uses. At the same time, knowing how the material impacts the environment will ensure that you are choosing the most sustainable material for the application.

Coastal Sand limestone. Photo courtesy of MSI.

Performance Matters

A material’s optimal performance is based on a combination of the attributes of the material itself, how the material is installed, and the conditions to which it is exposed. There are many different issues to consider for interior applications:

• How will the material react when it is exposed to heat and elevated temperatures? Some materials will scorch, while others may crack if they are heated too rapidly or unevenly.
• Can the material withstand exposure to chemicals without a visual change or performance degradation? Exposure to acids or alkali, quite common in kitchens, can potentially cause etching.
• How stain-resistant is the material? It is important that the material does not stain easily and that stains can be removed easily. Materials with lower absorption rates tend to be more stain-resistant. Using a sealer on more porous materials can lower their absorption rate, helping them to perform better and be more stain-resistant.
• Is the material slip-resistant? Slip-resistance is the level of traction needed for a walking surface to remain safe for those using it. The texture, porosity, surface treatments, and elements including water, dust, and a build-up of cleaning product residue can alter the slip resistance of the material. Slip resistance is impacted by the material’s texture and porosity, as well as any surface treatments used and elements it is exposed to

Performance attributes should be addressed no matter what material you are considering or what type of project you are working on. These factors play an even more important role in sustainability and in the long-term performance of the material. Let’s look at how natural stone compares to some manmade materials from the perspective of these performance objectives.

Saratoga soapstone. Photo courtesy of Stone Store.

Interior Applications for Natural Stone versus Manmade Materials

Countertops

The possibilities for countertops using natural stone are quite extensive. Granite, quartzite, marble, and soapstone are among the many options to consider for these hardworking elements in a kitchen or bath. Every natural stone slab connects directly to nature as a piece of Earth’s history. These stones are versatile, meaning they can be cut and finished into different shapes and patterns, and with various finishes, creating a cohesive aesthetic. There are typically more options for edging and surface textures available for natural stone than manmade surfaces. Because most stone is formed in nature through extreme heat and pressure, natural stone is inherently heat resistant. Granite and quartzite are also very durable and scratch resistant. Marble is particularly prized for its beautiful veining, although it may be susceptible to etching. Although soapstone can scratch easily, it can also be easily repaired. Some stones are porous which may cause the material to stain over time. Sealers are recommended for most applications.

In some cases, natural stone may cost more than manmade materials initially—but often, natural stone proves to be the most cost-effective choice due to its durability.  This is especially true because natural stone can also be refinished, repaired, restored, or recycled.  Stone also has a low embodied energy, an important consideration for sustainability requirements. This is because natural stone was created by the Earth and very little energy or additional resources are needed to quarry, fabricate, and finish it.

Manmade materials including engineered quartz, porcelain, sintered surface, acrylic/solid surface and cultured marble are also options for interior countertops.  These materials typically do not need to be sealed. The patterns and colors of manmade materials are usually consistent within the same dye lot. Acrylic/solid surfaces are repairable, but it is often expensive to do so. Most of these materials do not last as long as stone. Porcelain can be more expensive to purchase and is more expensive to fabricate than natural stone. It is also difficult to repair since the patterns are not full bodied. These materials are typically made in thinner formats which also reduces the edge selection options. This results in the edges not having the same texture and pattern as the surface. The synthetic components of engineered quartz can break down when exposed to UV light. Acrylic, engineered quartz, and cultured marble are not heat or UV resistant. Variation between batches of manufactured materials may cause installation or customer service issues.  Most of these materials also have a high embodied energy because they require a wide range of other materials and energy intensive processes to be manufactured.

Photo courtesy of Coldspring.

Flooring

Natural stones including granite, travertine, limestone, marble, and slate are good options for flooring.  Again, one of the main performance aspects of using natural stone in this manner is its incredible durability. Design options abound with more edge treatments, surface texture, and color than most manmade materials. Most textures are slip-resistant and most natural stones are also UV resistant. Natural stone also comes in a variety of thicknesses and is easy to care for once properly protected.  They will also maintain their color and patina nicely over time if maintained properly.  In some cases, natural stone will cost less than porcelain or concrete imitations.

There are a few other issues to consider. Polished finishes may require a topical treatment to increase the slip resistance. Marble, limestone, and travertine can etch when exposed to acidic substances. Stones that have higher absorption rates will need to be sealed. Once again, the low embodied energy of natural stone makes it a great option for meeting sustainability goals. As previously mentioned, natural stone’s long life cycle makes it a very cost-effective choice.

Porcelain, ceramic, concrete, and terrazzo and plastic-based materials such as laminate and vinyl are among the most popular manmade flooring materials. A few of the pros of using these materials include the durability of ceramic and porcelain. Additionally, ceramic, porcelain, and vinyl are easy to care for. There are usage ratings available for specific applications, which helps make it easier to select the right option for the use you are considering. Terrazzo is a creative material because of the custom options available in production. Laminates are generally inexpensive while porcelain is more expensive than ceramic and other popular flooring materials.

There are a number of cons to using these materials. Porcelain is a heavy and unforgiving material, so specialized equipment is needed to cut it. The density of porcelain often requires that sub-floors and supports are strong enough to withstand the extra weight. These issues can also add to the cost of installation.  Most manmade materials are only manufactured in thinner formats and the edges do not have the same texture or pattern as the surface. Their patterns and sizing are limited and they typically cannot be refinished. Porcelain and ceramic are susceptible to chipping and laminates and vinyl can be easily scratched or indented. Laminate and vinyl also require adhesives that off gas, and laminates are not moisture resistant.  There will be variances across color between batches or lots of the materials. Many of the petroleum-based materials contain chemicals that are toxic, including those marked as Red List chemicals. These products also have high embodied energy, which creates a negative impact on the environment.

Galaxy Grey granite. Photo courtesy of Artistic Tile.

Natural Stone and Sustainability

Natural stone has demonstrated considerable durability in local and regional environments and applications. In many cases, these have lasted for hundreds of years, even millennia. Most of the manmade materials have not been around long enough to demonstrate that level of performance. The qualities of longevity and durability have proven that natural stone is a great choice for also meeting green building goals. The initial material and installation costs are off-set by the long life expectancy and the low maintenance requirements. Little to no cleaning or chemicals are required to maintain the material and as mentioned, natural stone can also be refinished, repaired, restored, or recycled. Natural stone is 100% natural stone. Engineered quartz, concrete, and porcelain require many different materials including chemicals to be manufactured and many of them are not recyclable.

So, as Oscar Wilde once said: “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness.” Choose natural stone and you will be contributing to the long legacy of great, high-performing, sustainable projects in the world.

Danby marble. Photo courtesy of Stoneshop.

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Natural Stone in the Home

When you chose natural stone for your home, you knew it would perform beautifully, but did you consider how to keep the integrity of the stone intact and optimize the role it plays in your home? Natural stone is a sustainable material that is durable, improves with age, and does not off-gas. Even the most beautiful and well-installed natural stone will be subject to general wear and tear from people, pets, and objects. Maintaining the stone should be a top priority.

There are many different materials and finishes within this kitchen. Each must be considered in order to keep the entire room functioning well over time. Photo courtesy of Pacific Stoneworks.

How to Choose the Right Cleaning Products

The level of quality and care given to the design of this bathroom should be of the same level to maintain it.

It is important to use the right product and process for the type of stone and specific issue you are addressing. Different stones have different characteristics and will respond differently to cleaning and maintenance.

Ask the following questions before getting started:

• What type of stone is it? Marble, granite, slate, limestone, travertine, etc.?
• Is the stone porous or nonporous?
• Is the stone resistant to scratching, etching, and staining?
• What kind of finish does the stone have? Is it polished, honed, flamed, or something else?
• Where is the stone installed? Is it on a countertop, floor, backsplash, fireplace, or somewhere else?

Also ask which of these issues are being addressed:

• Dirt and debris build up
• High-traffic areas
• Normal wear and tear
• Chemical spills
• Stains or etches from an acidic or oily substance
• Damage such as a scratch, break, or change in appearance

Whenever possible, ask these questions before the stone is even installed. That way you can plan appropriately and understand what maintenance practice will work best for your stone. For example, if you are considering a stone that is prone to stains and you cook and entertain a lot, you can either select a different stone or choose appropriate finishing options. If you have pets and small children, the durability of the stone will be a major consideration. Choosing a stone that does not damage easily will reduce maintenance issues.

Eco-friendly Maintenance Practices

Regular preventative maintenance keeps dust and dirt from building up on the surface of the stone as well as on the surrounding materials. It also prevents the stone from deteriorating and the finish from dulling. Some of the simplest maintenance practices are also the most eco-friendly.

First, keep dirt and debris from entering into the home from the outside. Install floor mats at entrances to reduce the dirt that could enter the space. Create a transition area to contain dirty clothes, shoes, and pets. This will reduce the likelihood of dirt, debris and chemicals that are present on these items from coming into contact with the stone elements and the rest of the indoor environment.

Before and after maintenance. This extreme condition could have been prevented by regular maintenance. Waiting this long adds time, resources, and often a process that is labor intensive and expensive.

Second, address the daily habits that can impact any surface material. Use coasters to prevent etching from acidic drinks. Do not set hot pans directly on the stone surface. Dust or mop regularly with a soft microfiber cloth to prevent dirt and grit from getting ground into surfaces, which can wear away the finish. Do not use mops or brooms with a rough or abrasive surface to prevent scratching. Remove excess water from shower stalls, sinks, and vanities to prevent mold, soap scum, and mildew.

Next, use natural and simple cleaning solutions as your first choice whenever possible. A pH neutral cleaner will not damage the stone surface. Small nicks, scratches, and water spots can be buffed out very gently with a 00 steel wool pad. Remove spills as soon as they happen with a mild dish soap or vegetable soap and hot water. Small nicks, scratches, and water spots can be buffed out gently with a 00 steel wool pad. Consult with your stone professional to understand the best practices for your stone.

Sealers can also play an important role in keeping the stone looking and performing well. Sealers are often applied at the fabrication stage, but can also be applied after installation.

Always make sure to check labels and make sure the products you use are safe for use on natural stone. Acidic cleaners like vinegar and lemon juice will etch the surface of calcitic stones like marble and limestone. Ammonia can also dull the finish on certain stones and has also been linked to breathing difficulties. Ammonia and bleach should never be combined—this combination creates an immediate toxic gas.

These simple eco-friendly maintenance practices go a long way in sustaining the stone. However, it is possible to go beyond this with products that have credentials that will give you peace of mind, not only for your home, but also for the planet.

Certified Maintenance Products

Testing cleaning products on various stones in a lab.

Environmentally friendly cleaning products have been tested to ensure they are safe and healthy for indoor environments and are certified for low and no chemical emissions. They also reduce the impact of chemicals that often end up in waste streams and water systems. These products have the following characteristics:

• Water based
• Contain no harsh chemicals
• Produce no toxic fumes
• Contain no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
• Biodegradable
• Packaging is minimal and recyclable

Select a cleaning product with a certification label from a trusted and respected green product certification labeling organization. This will ensure that the ingredients in the products meet strict requirements and standards for indoor air and water quality and contain no harsh chemicals.

Cleaning products with these types of labels are becoming more widely available worldwide. So whether you live in coastal California or are staying in your vacation home in the hilltowns of Italy, you can find a sustainable cleaning product for stone. Remember to use these types of products throughout the home so that you are addressing the stone, the system, and the indoor environment as a whole. For the optimal result, plan for and implement maintenance regularly and consistently.

Additional Resources

• Global Ecolabel Network
• GREENGUARD Certification
• Green Seal
• Natural Stone Institute
• US Environmental Protection Agency Safer Choice

TAGS:  cleaning countertop residential sustainability educate stephanie vierra

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Thank you to Dave Scott of Slabworks of Montana, and Tony Malisani of Malisani Inc., for preparing materials for these tests.

There is no shortage of opinions when it comes to countertop materials. We hear about granite being bulletproof and engineered quartz being low-maintenance but is that really true? Much of the information about various materials is either anecdotal or is published by the manufacturers and sellers of products. These sources of information may be spot-on… or perhaps not. It can be difficult to find reliable information about the practical properties of different types of countertop surfaces.

In a quest to bring more data-driven information to the countertop industry, this article offers side-by-side performance testing of four categories of materials. The purpose is twofold: to share test results from various countertop surfaces, and to illustrate how any material can be tested using these basic techniques. Bringing in a little more data to our industry helps everyone understand what to expect from particular products.

A Note About Objectivity

I’m an independent geologist, and I share the commitment of the Natural Stone Institute to bring educational information to the countertop industry, the design community, and consumers. It’s important to note that I didn’t pre-screen any of the materials used in this test. I picked a variety of colors, brands, and materials, ran the same tests on all of them, and documented all of the results. When I began the tests I did not know what the outcome would be. In an age where objectivity seems to be hard to come by, I did my best to remain unattached to any particular outcome. My motivation is to help people understand materials and be able to make informed choices, regardless of what type of material they are working with.

The Matchup: Materials Tested

To keep the tests manageable, I selected just one or two pieces from each type of countertop material. The article, Do Engineered Quartz Countertops Stain?, contains many more test results of staining, cleaning, and scrubbing.

Natural stone samples

• Absolute Black granite with a bush hammered and brushed finish. Sealed with 2 coats of Dry Treat Stain Proof impregnating sealer
• Thunder White granite (also known as Andromeda White) with a polished finish and sealed with 2 coats of Dry Treat Stain Proof impregnating sealer

Engineered quartz

• Caesarstone Eggshell, polished finish
• Sequel Pure Black, polished finish

Sintered surface (a heated and highly compressed blend of clays, feldspars, silica, and other minerals)

• Dekton Trillium, which has an uneven, ‘distressed’ finish

Concrete

• Poured concrete with gravel aggregate, ground flat and smooth, then sealed with Terra Glaze acrylic polymer sealer

The Tests

Hardness

Hardness is the ability of a material to withstand being scratched. It’s a relatively easy property to measure, using metal picks that are calibrated to Mohs hardness scale. Even though Mohs scale was developed to test individual minerals, it’s still a reasonable way to compare the overall hardness of different surfaces. The higher the number, the more the material will stand up to the affronts of metal utensils, cast iron cookware, and roasting pans being slid along the surface.

The sintered surface from Dekton ultimately ranked the hardest material in the test, with a Mohs hardness value between 7 and 8, meaning it’s harder than both glass and steel. The two granites were next in line, with values between 6 and 7. That result makes sense considering the two most common minerals in granite are feldspar and quartz, which rate 6 and 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, respectively. Engineered quartz product Caesarstone Eggshell was slightly softer than granite and was more readily scratched by the #6 hardness pick. Sequel Pure Black was easily scratched by the #6 tool, putting its hardness slightly below 6. The glossy black color of that manufactured quartz material also made the scratches easy to see.

Left: Sequel Pure Black engineered quartz has a Mohs hardness less than 6; the #6 hardness tool can scratch it, as shown here.
Right: Dekton Trillium has a hardness greater than 7, but less than 8. It was the hardest material in the test.

The softest material in the test was concrete. The matrix had a hardness around 4, and the different types of stone aggregate had measured hardness values ranging from 5 to 7.

Acid resistance

Next I tested each sample for its ability to withstand acidic liquids by putting about 1/4 tsp of white vinegar and two droplets of 10% diluted hydrochloric acid on the samples, allowing the acids to sit on the samples for 30 minutes. Diluted hydrochloric acid is the standard method geologists use to identify acid-susceptible stones. After the 30-minute period, the samples were then cleaned with soap and water, towel-dried off, and inspected. There were no visible effects on any of the materials except concrete.

While the acids were sitting on the concrete, a bubbling chemical reaction was clearly visible with the hydrochloric acid, and a slight bubbling reaction could be seen in the vinegar when using a magnifying glass. These reactions indicate that the acids were dissolving the carbonate minerals in the concrete. Once the acids were wiped off, the hydrochloric acid left a pitted area where the surface had been etched. No etching was visible from the vinegar, perhaps because the surface was somewhat rough and non-glossy to begin with.

Staining and cleaning

The ability for countertops to repel stains is a high priority for commercial property owners and homeowners, and it’s hard to predict what types of substances people will put on their countertops. I tested the stain-resistance of the samples with three common substances known to cause stubborn stains: turmeric, food coloring, and permanent marker.

For the test, approximately ¼ tsp of turmeric paste (a mixture of powdered turmeric and water), and two droplets of food dye were placed on each sample. These were left to sit on the samples for two hours, then cleaned off with mild soap and an ordinary kitchen sponge.

The dark colored materials – Absolute Black granite, Sequel Pure Black engineered quartz, and Dekton Trillium sintered surface material – did not endure any visible stains from turmeric or food dye, which speaks well to the ability of a material’s color and pattern to mask blemishes. Throughout all the testing I have done, darker materials and busier patterns are generally more effective at hiding stains.

The Thunder White granite showed very faint stains from food coloring, and these were easily removed with further cleaning with a kitchen sponge and mild dish soap. Thunder White also showed a moderate stain from turmeric, which faded overnight and was only visible because I knew exactly where to look. An observer did not see any stains on the white stone. Over the next 24 hours, the stain faded away completely.

Caesarstone’s Eggshell engineered quartz had moderate stains from both the turmeric paste and food coloring. As I continued to scrub and clean the quartz, the stains lightened, but did not disappear completely. The next day, the stains had faded somewhat, and the only plainly visible stain was from the food coloring.

Concrete was severely stained by both the dye and the turmeric, and further cleaning was only minimally effective at reducing the stains.

Left: Caesarstone Eggshell engineered quartz was stained by blue food dye, pink food dye, and turmeric paste.
Right: The same stains after further cleaning with mild soap and scrubber side of kitchen sponge.

Removing permanent marker

A Sharpie brand permanent marker left an obvious mark on all of the samples tested. The marker stain was most easily removed from Thunder White granite, requiring only mild soap and a kitchen sponge. On all other samples except concrete, non-acetone nail polish remover was required to successfully clean the marker stain.

On the concrete, nail polish remover was able to remove Sharpie marker that had just been applied, but did not remove dried on marker stains. Soft Scrub brand cleanser appeared to be the most effective at removing the marker from concrete, but it only lightened the stain; it did not remove it.

Scrubbing with abrasives

Abrasive cleaning products offer a challenge for some countertop surfaces. Several quartz manufacturers advise their customers to steer clear of abrasives, and for good reason. Abrasives have the potential to dull the finish of manufactured quartz because the resin that binds the quartz particles together is considerably softer than the particles of mineral quartz aggregate that are used in engineered stone.

In this test, two brand name cleaning products were used, Soft Scrub with Oxi, and Bar Keepers Friend. These were applied with an ordinary kitchen sponge with a nylon scrubbing surface, and 30 seconds of vigorous scrubbing.

Soft Scrub uses the mineral calcite as its abrasive agent, and calcite is a mild abrasive with a Mohs hardness of 3. The Soft Scrub left a very subtle hazing on the Sequel Pure Black engineered quartz. The black color and glossy finish is an unforgiving surface when it comes to hiding imperfections.

The Thunder White and Absolute Black granites, Dekton Trillium sintered surface, and Caesarstone Eggshell engineered quartz did not have any visible effects from the Soft Scrub.

Concrete became visibly dulled after using Soft Scrub. It appeared that the satin shine from the applied sealer was removed, and the effect was easily noticeable.

Bar Keepers Friend is a more robust abrasive cleanser containing feldspar, which has a Mohs hardness around 6. Thirty seconds of scrubbing with Bar Keepers Friend left distinct hazy areas on both of the engineered quartz samples. The Dekton and natural stone samples were unaffected. The concrete was significantly dulled from the Bar Keepers Friend, and in fact I could feel the material becoming rough and abraded as I scrubbed.

Heat resistance

Heat impacts surfaces in a few different ways. The thermal shock of sudden heating of a cool surface has been known to break slabs. Furthermore, heat can scorch or discolor materials that have low melting temperatures. Kitchen countertops are exposed to heat in several ways, from being adjacent to stoves and dishwashers, to the potential for having hot pans placed directly on top of them. It’s important to note that quartz manufacturers specifically warn against putting hot pans directly on their surfaces, and thus, the precaution of “don’t try this at home” applies to this test.

Left: The setup for hot, oily skillet test on Caesarstone Eggshell manufactured quartz. Mongolian Fire Oil is on the left, Texas Pete hot sauce on the right.
Right: Hot, oily skillet test underway on concrete. The skillet was heated to 575 degrees F, and placed on the slab for 10 minutes.

I tested heat resistance in two different ways. I placed a very hot cast iron skillet on top of the samples and let it sit for 10 minutes. The skillet weighed 3.5 pounds and had a footprint of 6.5 inches where it contacted the slabs, and was heated to about 570 degrees F.

The hot, dry skillet test left a temporary, light colored mark on the Sequel Pure Black sample, but the mark wiped off. No other test sample surface showed visible effects from that test.

Then, I took it up a notch with the hot, oily skillet test. This is a tough one: the surface of each of the slabs was first sprinkled with Mongolian Fire Oil and Texas Pete brand hot sauce, and the hot skillet was placed on top of the oily surface. This test represents a worst-case scenario where a hot pan is placed on a dirty countertop. While it is certainly not recommended to treat one’s countertop this way, it’s easily within the range of possibility – homeowners, guests, renters, or contractors are not always familiar with the exact properties of a countertop, and errant moves with hot pans do happen.

Dekton’s Trillium sintered surface showed no effects from this test, but every other material had some sort of noticeable change. Thunder White granite showed a slight stain from the hot oil, but the stain faded over 24 hours, to the point where it was invisible. Absolute Black granite exhibited a very subtle darkening of the surface in the area where the skillet had been sitting. This change was so slight that observers could not see it unless I pointed it out.

The Caesarstone Eggshell engineered quartz sample was stained by the hot oil, and initially there was a curved stain in the shape of the skillet, as well as a stain in the center of the area where the skillet had been. By the next day, the curved stain had faded, but the other stain remained. Over the course of several days, the stain lightened further, to the point where it was no longer visible.

The finish of Sequel Pure Black engineered quartz became slightly hazed and lighter in color in the area where the skillet had been sitting. The mark remained permanent.

Concrete was severely stained by the hot, oily skillet test. The stain covered most of the area that had been underneath the skillet, and while the stain faded slightly overnight, it was still large and prominent.

From Left to Right:
Thunder White granite after the hot, oily skillet test and before cleaning.
Damage on Sequel Pure Black manufactured quartz from the hot, oily skillet test (foreground) and from Bar Keepers Friend (background).
Concrete was damaged by all but one of the tests. The sample was pretty beat up by the end of the analysis.

TL;DR – The quick summary

Two materials exited the tests looking the same way they came in: Thunder White Granite and Dekton’s Trillium sintered surface. Thunder White shrugged off Sharpie marker better than any other material, but the stone’s light color revealed slight, temporary staining from hot oil and turmeric. No permanent stains persisted after cleaning, and neither heat nor abrasives affected the stone’s brightly polished surface.

The sample of Dekton Trillium was unfazed by any of the tests. In part, this product is made of materials that resist staining and scratching, and in part, its dark color and uneven surface finish made it hard to spot discoloration or damage. That’s why I was careful to note the degree of visible effects – it turned out that the variations of each material’s color and finish played a role in the way it either masked or revealed different types of damage. Nonetheless, Dekton is clearly a strong performer and I’m curious to do more testing of this relative newcomer and investigate properties such as chipping or cracking.

Absolute Black granite sailed through every test except the hot, oily skillet, which darkened the surface in a subtle way that observers did not notice unless prompted where to look.

The two samples of manufactured quartz each had slight to moderate damage from the tests. The Caesarstone Eggshell was stained by food coloring, turmeric, and hot oil. Over time the turmeric and oil stains faded, while the food coloring persisted. Sequel Pure Black was more susceptible to scratching, and showed some hazing when exposed to high heat. Both types of engineered quartz became dulled when scrubbed with Barkeepers Friend.

Far and away, the concrete suffered the most damage from these tests. Concrete is porous, and that’s what allows stains to penetrate. The cement that binds concrete together contains calcite (calcium carbonate), and thus cement will etch from acids. Lastly, concrete is soft and prone to scratching. This is not to say that concrete should be ruled out as a useful material, but it’s paramount that clients fully understand the properties and performance of concrete before committing to it.

Performance matters

If you’ve read this far, you now know more about countertop performance than most people, so congratulations!

So what’s the bottom line? First and foremost, think about the priorities and details of your specific situation. Is staining likely to be a problem? What about mishaps with hot pans? Do you tend to over-scrub a surface and are worried about damaging the finish? Use the test results that are most relevant to your needs.

Secondly, it’s a great idea to try some of these tests on any product you are considering, whether you are a homeowner or an industry pro. That will give you the most specific information, and you’ll continue to broaden your understanding when you interact with a material. Don’t be afraid to ask your countertop supplier for samples.

How does natural stone fit into all of this? The granite samples stood up very well to the abuses of these tests. Both Absolute Black and Thunder White generally outperformed engineered quartz, they were head and shoulders better than concrete, and they were comparable to Dekton. That’s good news to fans of natural stone – although be sure to investigate your particular material whenever possible.

A vast array of different products, colors, and styles are available for countertops today. Selecting materials can be a dizzying choice, but usually comes down to the same question: Are its properties a good match for your situation? When in doubt, zero in on how a material behaves and performs, try some tests, and learn as much as you can. In an environment steeped in hearsay and marketing copy, real world information will always be your ally.

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Traditionally used for fireplace surrounds, chemistry labs, and sculptures, recent years have seen a resurgence in demand for soapstone as a countertop material. With its rich tones and resistance to heat and chemicals, it is easy to understand why modern builders and homeowners have turned to soapstone.

Why Choose Soapstone?

Photo courtesy of Rocky Mountain Stone.

Soapstone has a long, rich history: quarried for thousands of years, it has been used for everything from paving and cladding to cooking utensils and whiskey stones. Soapstone is versatile and can be incorporated into a wide variety of designs. It has remained a go-to countertop material due to its long-known physical properties and classic old-world aesthetic, which can be enhanced by the application of oil or wax.

Because soapstone is comprised primarily of talc, it has an extremely high resistance to chemicals and acids. It is a hydrophobic stone with an absorbency of near zero, meaning that it does not absorb water. Soapstone retains heat and it will not scorch when in contact with hot cookware. It has a porosity of nearly zero, making it a naturally sanitary food preparation surface that does not have to be sealed. It does not harbor bacteria or absorb liquids.

Soapstone countertops are typically found in a honed finish. Geologist Karin Kirk notes: “Unlike many types of natural stone, soapstone cannot be polished to a glossy shine. Instead, it has a soft, warm glow and rounded edges that help a space feel comfortable rather than imposing.”

Yes, Soapstone Will Scratch—But Maintenance Is Simple

Photo courtesy of Morningstar Stone Tile.

Its nonporous nature means that caring for soapstone is simple: little more than water and a gentle cleanser is needed for regular maintenance. Despite the ease of maintenance, there is one thing to keep in mind when it comes to soapstone countertops.

Soapstone is extremely soft, ranging from 1-4 on the Mohs scale of hardness. (For comparison, most granites typically range from 6-7 on the scale.) This does mean that if you choose soapstone for your countertops, you should expect that they will get scratched rather easily. However, this is not a deal breaker for most soapstone users.

Photo courtesy of Rocky Mountain Stone.

Most soapstone scratches can be easily disguised or removed using mineral oil (for smaller scratches) or sandpaper (for larger scratches). This can be done as a DIY project, although a stone professional can be consulted for advice for any larger issues. Preventative measures like using cutting boards during food preparation can help keep scratches to a minimum.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Does the idea of a countertop that scratches cause you stress? If so, you may want to consider a harder stone. If not, the benefits of soapstone will likely outweigh its softness.

What Do I Need to Know About Oiling?

Photo courtesy of Vermont Soapstone.

In their natural state, most soapstones are a soft gray. When treated with mineral oil, this color can be enhanced to a darker, richer, and more uniform state. While many homeowners choose to oil soapstone to enhance its natural color and movement, this is not necessary. In fact, many people prefer the look of untreated soapstone. Many soapstone suppliers sell oil specially designed for the stone, but common mineral oil purchased at grocery stores and pharmacies can also be used. Several coatings will be required before the darkening is considered permanent. Be sure to communicate with your stone fabricator and supplier to better understand this process.

As always, your stone supplier and fabricator will be able to answer any specific questions you may have about choosing soapstone as a countertop material. Whether you choose a soapstone that is dark and moody or light and smooth, your countertops will be beautiful, durable, and easy to maintain for years to come.

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Why Choose Granite?

Black Forest granite. Photo courtesy of M S International.

“Granite is one of the easiest to care for stones you can use in your home,” says Galen Roth, owner of Roth Restoration in Charleston, SC. “Most of the granite restoration calls we receive are for countertops that are 10 to 15 year old, when they become dull around sink and work areas. Otherwise, granite countertops need very little upkeep.”

“Granite is a good choice for kitchen countertops because it’s not sensitive to most common household acids,” adds Brian Kornet, owner and president of Fabra-Clean in Plainview, New York. “If you have polished granite, it’s very difficult for it to lose its shine.”

Daily Maintenance

Roth recommends getting into a routine of wiping granite counters daily with a neutral cleaner. “That’s all that’s needed,” he says. “You don’t need to use a harsh soap because nothing sticks to granite; it’s a smooth surface.”

It’s important to read labels—most major brands of cleaners make a version that is safe for stone surfaces. A natural stone cleaner made for daily use should not leave residue on stone, which Kornet says is important. He notes that people often use dish detergent to clean their granite countertops, which he does not recommend. “Soap has a fatty acid that leaves a greasy film, which can dull or leave streaks on stone surfaces. You won’t get that with the right daily cleaner.”

Silver Pearl granite. Photo courtesy of Stoneshop.

Simple preventative measures can go a long way in protecting granite countertops. Make sure to use cutting boards, trivets, and cooling racks. Kornet also recommends cleaning up spills and moisture as soon as possible. “If you have bottles of cleaning fluids, such as dish detergent, keep them in a dish,” he says. “Dry underneath dishes regularly, and use coasters with glasses.”

“If you don’t take the time to wipe off water around the faucet and fixtures each day, you will see the water start to calcify, turning white,” says Jacqueline Tabbah, VP of International Stoneworks in Houston, TX. “If you let it go, you’ll need a stone restoration, but it’s cleanable using a neutral cleaner once a week to address the buildup.

Annual Maintenance

Red Dragon granite. Photo courtesy of Kenneth Volpe for Flemington Granite & Architectural Supply.

Our experts recommend sealing most granites, but the timeline can vary depending on use and which sealer was applied.

“The kitchen is the heart of the home and is used every day, and the bathroom has constant daily water exposure,” says Tabbah. “Reseal these countertops using a penetrating sealer. It provides good water, oil, and grease resistance.” Penetrating (or impregnating) sealers work just below the stone surface to provide additional safeguard against stains.

Check the manufacturers recommendations for how the product should be applied. It is typically as easy as spraying the product on and then wiping off the excess.

Kornet offers these tips for identifying when it is time to reseal, “Put a little hot water on an area, let it sit for 10 to 20 minutes, and then wipe it off. If the stone darkens, it’s still absorbing moisture. If it doesn’t, it’s sealed. The reason hot water is used is because it has smaller molecules.”

Photo courtesy of Coldspring.

“Not every stone is the same,” he says. “You have some that are more porous than others.” Some granites, such as Absolute Black, may not require sealing, or will only need one application of sealer. Other granites, like Juparana Columbo, may require four to six applications to be sealed properly.”

A good sealer can last up to 10 years if using the right products to clean daily. “What will break down the sealer besides oxidation from sunlight and from the air is using improper cleaners,” says Kornet. “Granite is such a great countertop product. If you take care of it, it will last a long time.”

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