Stone
Austin Countertops specializes in installing beautiful natural stone
Using only the best stone-cutting and fabricating equipment available, we help every customer achieve the full potential of their vision.
Many varieties of natural stone can be used successfully for countertop surfaces. However, different types of stone have specific properties that offer advantages or disadvantages in various applications.
For a gorgeous, successful installation, it is important to choose the correct stone for your lifestyle and the functionality expected from the natural stone surface.
The following in-depth information is reprinted courtesy of
The Marble Institute of America.
“Granites are undoubtedly the most popular stone type used in countertop applications
today. This group of stones includes many stone materials that are not true granites by
geological definition.
However, because their properties are so similar, the American Society for Testing and Materials International (ASTM) lumps them together as ‘granite’. These stones are known geologically as gabbro, anorthosite, gneiss, diabase, and diorite, to name a few.
Whatever the name, these stones are some of the hardest of the common countertop stones, offering high levels of resistance to abrasion and scratching. The primary minerals in granite are resistant to almost all chemicals commonly found in a home; however, there may be trace minerals present in some granites and granite-like stones that are vulnerable to some acids.
Marbles, Serpentines, and Onyxes are traditionally prized for their aesthetic appeal, accentuated by distinct veining and often bold colors. They are relatively softer than granite, although some serpentines are as dense as some granites.
Marbles can be scratched by kitchen utensils so it is best to use cutting boards and other protective measures. Use only non-abrasive products when cleaning marble. Marbles can also be etched by chemical attack. These stones are calcium carbonatebased and are damaged by exposure to acidic solutions such as lemon juice, tomatoes, vinegar, etc. The use of inappropriate cleaning agents may also trigger acidic attack. Acidic solutions can permanently etch the surface of the material. The application of a sealer will reduce, but not eliminate, the vulnerability to acidic attack. For these reasons, your stone dealer may not recommend marble for use in kitchens.
Slates have high resistance to chemicals and have been traditionally used as chemistry laboratory tops. However, slates are softer than granite and therefore vulnerable to scratching and abrasion. Slate has a natural cleft (not a smooth surface). Some suppliers provide slate slabs that are not honed. Be specific about the kind of finish you desire.
The same precautions mentioned for marbles with regard to damage should be applied to slates.
Limestones and Travertine are calcium based similar to marble. Therefore, they have
the same weaknesses as marbles when used as countertops. Abrasion damage is a concern,
particularly if the stone is polished. Many varieties of these stone types will absorb water to some degree and must be sealed to help protect them.”
Contact us today to let us help you choose the best stone for your project.
