Marble and Quartz Differences

Marble and quartz differences are to be discussed here. If your client’s red wine and pasta Sundays are pushing your design from natural stone to quartz, it may be a myth about durability driving your design rather than your eye.

 

 

Marble and Quartz Differences

The differences between marble and quartz, for instance, are varied and complex, with each material excelling in different applications and under different conditions. The choice between engineered or natural surfaces is more than an issue of performance; it’s still about the look. Today we’ll take a look at quartz vs. marble and offer some comparisons.

 

Consistency and Uniformity

Quartz is a good choice when designs call for consistency and uniformity like in kitchens with ultra modern lacquered cabinetry. The unbroken surface of say a high polished gray or white quartz has a sleek formal appearance. It’s also available in a wide variety of shades.

 

Honed and Polished Finishes

Texture of course is a consideration with spec’ing a countertop material. Both honed and polished finishes can be achieved with marble and quartz. Where natural look and feel are a priority, marble tends to win out for its’ touchability, a honed marble countertop feels and looks like a wind-worn rock.

 

 

Durability of Marble versus Quartz

The durability of marble versus quartz is probably one of the most misunderstood subjects to those inside and outside the trade. Marble is luxurious, but requires maintenance. True. But does its need for maintenance mean it’s fragile or impractical? Actually, no. That red wine and tomato sauce, and lemon juice too, can stain or etch marble are known facts. However, there are some marbles that stand up better than others to acidic agents and more forgiving when selected with honed or antiqued finishes.

 

Absorption Rate and Sealing

Every material has its own absorption rate. It’s a good indicator of how quickly something will penetrate the surface. The lower the absorption rate, the more density it has, and the more time to wipe up spills. Granite for instance has a very low absorption rate, which makes a good choice for any surface. Quartz also has a low absorption rate because its’ engineered surface is made with a resin made from petrochemicals. Marble is known for staining because when left unsealed many varieties can absorb liquids more quickly. Quartz is a manufactured surface and therefore doesn’t need a sealer.

 

Damaging Factors

Quartz is durable. True. But does durable mean indestructible? Again, no. There are two things that can damage quartz irreparably – direct sunlight and heat. Any exposure to direct sunlight and high UV rays will cause it to yellow, warp and discolor. Similarly a very hot pot placed on its surface can scorch, burn it or sear an impression of the bottom of a hot pan into its surface. There’s no cleaner for that.

 

Hardness and Resistance

Quartz is harder than marble, and that its’ surface is resistant to scratching is well known. Lesser known is its lack of dimensional strength which can place limitations on design. For instance, in quartz surfaces inside radius corners must be rounded to maintain their integrity. Where the intersecting angles come together, if they are left too square, there’s an inherent weak portion that results which can crack and break. If your design calls for a zero radius, square sink it can void the warranty on the quartz. Marble can be left square and not have weak spots because there is less surface tension. Both marble and quartz can chip on the edges as well, neither are immune to that depending on the situation. 

 

Marble and Quartz

Quartz is a non-porous, germ-free product that doesn’t require sealing or waxing, and cleaning is a breeze with hot water, soap, and a sponge. It also stands up extremely well against cuts, heat, and abrasions, and is virtually stain-resistant. Marble also does a moderate job when it comes to resisting heat, but remember that it can stain if acidic materials are left on its surface. Marble also requires regular sealing, so you should factor that into the overall, long-term costs.

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Sources

blog.polycor.com/quartz-vs-marble-are-look-and-performance-mutually-exclusive

www.msisurfaces.com/blogs/post/2016/07/20/tips-from-the-trade-is-quartz-more-expensive-than-marble.aspx