Countertop FAQs: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying

Choosing the perfect countertop for your home is a big decision! Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or upgrading your bathroom, homeowners often have a lot of questions before making their final choice. To help, we’ve put together answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about stone countertops.

1. What’s the difference between granite, quartz, and marble countertops?

Each material has its unique benefits:

• Granite – A natural stone that’s durable, heat-resistant, and unique in pattern. It does require periodic sealing.
• Quartz – An engineered stone that’s non-porous, low-maintenance, and available in a variety of colors.
• Marble – A luxurious natural stone with elegant veining, but it’s more porous and requires extra care.
• Dekton – Great for outdoors. Extreme heat resistance and one of the most scratch resistant surfaces available.
• Quartzite – Stronger than granite with the beauty of marble veining. Heat resistant and a one-of-a-kind material, no 2 slabs are identical.

2. Are quartz countertops better than granite?

It depends on what you’re looking for! Quartz is non-porous, making it resistant to stains and bacteria, while granite is heat-resistant and has a more natural look. Both are excellent choices, but if you want a maintenance-free option, quartz might be better.

3. How much do stone countertops cost?

Prices vary based on the material, color, and edge profiles. Granite and quartz typically start around $50-$100 per square foot with fabrication, while high-end materials like marble or exotic stones can go higher. The brighter the white, movement in the stone, and exotic colors can also increase your price.

4. Do I need to seal my countertops?

• Granite & Marble – Yes, they require periodic sealing to prevent stains. Granite 1-2 times a year. Marble 3-4 times a year.
• Quartz – No sealing required, making it a great low-maintenance option.
• Dekton – Does not require sealing. It is non-porous and resistant to stains making it almost maintenance free.
• Quartzite – Yes, despite being a dense stone it still has some porosity. Sealing quartzite helps protect it from stains and moisture. At least once a year is suggested.

5. How long does the installation process take?

After selecting your stone, the process usually takes 10-14 business days from templating to installation. The actual install can take a few hours to a full day, depending on the size and complexity of the project.

6. Can I place hot pots and pans directly on my countertops?

• Granite, Quartzite, & Marble – Yes, but with caution. Prolonged exposure can potentially cause thermal shock to the top leading to cracks. We do not recommend.
• Quartz – Not heat-resistant; direct heat can cause damage. Always use trivets or hot pads. We can always make these from leftover material if available.
• Dekton – Dekton is highly heat resistant and can handle the heat of hot pans directly on the surface. However, we do not recommend doing this either.

7. What’s the best way to clean and maintain my countertops?

For daily cleaning, use a mild soap and water with a terry cloth towel to prevent scratches. Avoid harsh chemicals, vinegar, or abrasive scrubbers that can damage the surface. For harder to clean areas, use a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or Soft Scrub to help clean the countertop.

8. Do stone countertops increase home value?

Yes! High-quality countertops, especially granite and quartz, can boost home value and attract potential buyers due to their durability and timeless appeal.

9. Can I cut directly on my countertops?

It’s not recommended. While granite and quartz are scratch-resistant, cutting directly on the surface can dull your knives and, in some cases, scratch the surface and damage the sealant or finish. Wine and Citrus can also cause significant damage to your countertop and stain it. Always use a cutting board.

10. What edge profiles are available for my countertops?

Edge options range from standard straight or eased edges to decorative styles like bullnose, beveled, ogee, or waterfall edges. The right choice depends on your aesthetic and budget.

11. Can I move my stone countertop by myself?

Stone can weigh anywhere from 10-12lbs a square foot It is not recommended to move your countertop by yourself. The stone is extremely heavy and fragile and could cause injury. It also puts your home and surroundings at risk of damage. If you need to move your stone top, please hire professionals.

Have More Questions? We’re Here to Help!

If you’re considering new countertops, our team at Desert Sky Surfaces is happy to guide you through the process. Visit our showroom in Mesa, AZ, or contact us today to get started!