Marble offers great appeal because of its bold colors, exotic veining and distinctive earthy tones. However, it is generally considered softer than granite. As a result, most professional fabricators will steer customers away from utilizing marble in high traffic areas such as kitchen and bathroom countertops. Exposure to food, household chemicals and beauty products can damage marble surfaces. As a result, marble is generally an excellent choice for locations such as fireplace treatments, backsplashes and in other specialty capacities. The stones in this category will also include Onyx and Serpentines.

Quartz is an engineered stone product, meaning it combines elements of other substances, such as granite bits, pulverized stone dust and polymers to create slabs. That process adds to the durablity, and a number of companies–we carry Silestone, Cambria, Zodiac, Della Terra, Caesarstone, Hanstone, Sequel, and LG Viatera–have pushed the envelope in an effort to improve its already impressive strength, color, texture and pattern benefits. While it acts as a good imitator of many stone products, it is not recommended for outdoor applications. Quartz is generally stain and scratch resistant, extremely durable and does not require sealing.

Stones such as Travertine, Slate, Onyx, Serpentines and Soapstone offer their own unique aesthetic and can be ideal based on design concept and color palate. However, these varieties all have absorption rates greater than most Granites and need more frequent sealing. As for Slate and Soapstone those surfaces are enhanced by mineral oil and not necessarily sealed. Re-oiling can deal with most scratches and marks.

Some love it. Others, not so much. The benefits include a wide range of colors. As a result, integrated sinks are stylish, easy to clean and often hygienically superior. Unfortunately, solid stone can rest to heat, scratch and lose some of its luster. Repairs and maintenance can be on-going costs. Corian, LG Hi-Macs, Wilsonart, Livingstone, Avonite, Hanex, and Staron are among the brands we carry.

Countertop manufacturing is also available in eco alternatives. Spectra wholeheartedly supports companies such as Vetrazzo, Eco, Richlite, Paperstone, Geos, and Curava, businesses that create countertop options through efforts to integrate recycling, repurposing and sustainability. These materials meet standards while still providing quality durability and design.