Stone guide

Which stonefits your life?

Every surface is a trade-off between beauty, durability, and care. Tell us what matters most and we'll highlight the best fits.

What matters most to you?

Granite

Natural igneous stone

Heat
Stains
Scratches
Low care

Great all-rounder for kitchens. Seal every 1–2 years.

Marble

Natural metamorphic stone

Heat
Stains
Scratches
Low care

Unmatched beauty; etches with acids. Best for baths, floors, and patina lovers.

Quartz

Engineered stone

Heat
Stains
Scratches
Low care

No sealing needed. Use trivets — resins can scorch. Not for outdoor sun.

Quartzite

Natural metamorphic stone

Heat
Stains
Scratches
Low care

Marble's look with granite's toughness. Confirm it's true quartzite, not "soft quartzite."

Porcelain

Fired ceramic slab & tile

Heat
Stains
Scratches
Low care

Extremely low maintenance. Edges can chip, so careful fabrication matters.

Travertine

Natural limestone family

Heat
Stains
Scratches
Low care

Cool and slip-resistant outdoors; a favorite for pool decks.

Ratings are general comparisons on a 1–5 scale. Individual slabs vary — we'll test samples for your project.

Care basics

Do this, not that

Most stone damage comes from the wrong cleaner, not from use.

Do

  • Use pH-neutral stone cleaner
  • Wipe spills promptly, especially oils and acids
  • Use trivets and cutting boards
  • Test sealer with a few drops of water each year

Don't

  • Use vinegar, bleach, or lemon cleaners on marble
  • Put hot pans directly on quartz
  • Use abrasive powders or scouring pads
  • Stand or sit on overhangs without support

The water test

Not sure if your natural stone needs resealing? Pour a small puddle of water on an inconspicuous spot and wait 15 minutes. If the stone darkens, it's absorbing water and it's time to reseal. If the water beads or sits on top, your sealer is still working.

See it in person.

Bring a cabinet door or paint swatch to our showroom.

Book a showroom visit