Are you tired of having out-of-date countertops? Have you moved into a home where the existing countertops have suffered from stains, chips, or cracks? Are you constructing a new home, and want surfaces that require minimal maintenance to look great? If so, then you should look into the benefits of natural stone.
Since the days of the Romans, homeowners have used granite, marble, and other hard stones for floors and countertops. And, contrary to popular belief, they are not nearly as expensive as one might think.
In fact, when one looks at their durability, easy maintenance, minimal scratching, and resistance to staining, bacteria, and heat, the use of natural stone is far more practical than using laminate countertops or standard flooring.
Of course, all-natural stones are not created equal. If you are considering countertops or flooring made from one natural stone, here are some basic facts about each of them. If you want to buy the best natural stone countertops in Austin, then you can browse the web.
Granite: Granite is one of the most popular natural stone choices for flooring or countertops. It is available in a wide range of colors, so you are certain to find a look that meets your style. It is composed of minerals that liquefy, becoming molten magma that cools and forms a hard material deep within the earth's surface. Granite is resistant to scratches, stains, bacteria, heat and burns.
Marble: Marble is comprised primarily of calcite, and made by very high heat and pressure deep in the earth that compresses the minerals. It is the pressure's unevenness that creates the beautiful veining associated with marble.
Marble is burn resistant and a favorite for people who do a great deal of baking or candy making. However, marble is a very porous stone, so it is susceptible to stains, bacteria, and scratching.
Slate: This natural stone is also a good choice for countertops. However, it is not scratch resistant, but its notable features are that it is stain, bacteria, heat, and burn resistant. In addition, it is not necessary to use a synthetic sealer to protect its surface. It comes in colors ranging from varying shades of grey, red, green, blue, and even purple, so you are sure to find just the look you want for your home.