When choosing countertops for the kitchen or bathroom, many homeowners prefer the look of natural stone, which offers a nearly endless array of unique colors and patterns. Granite is one of the most popular countertop materials on the market and a popular choice for modern or traditional houses. Marble is synonymous with luxury and is a classic choice for high-end homes. Use this simple guide to discover which of these beautiful materials is right for you.

There are plenty of good reasons why granite is quickly becoming the most demanded material for countertops in the kitchen and bathroom: it's durable, and when properly maintained stain, chip, and heat resistant. For homeowners who like the look of granite but not the high shine, honed granite is a popular substitute.

It is difficult to find granite countertops that are pure white. Most of them either appear as gray or contain flecks of other colors such as black and red. Examples of such white granites include River Whtie and Bianco Romano. White granite countertops create an effect of more space and appear striking when paired with cherry wood kitchen furnishings.

Made from one of the hardest minerals on earth, quartz countertops are arguably the most durable option for kitchens. They're also some of the most eye-catching. They come in a wide variety of colors, including fire-engine red and apple green, as well as earthy browns, blacks, and creams, with sparkles and veining for the look of granite or marble. But unlike natural-stone slabs, which are mined, these slabs are engineered in a factory. Their primary ingredient is ground quartz (about 94 percent), combined with polyester resins to bind it and pigments to give it color. For some designs, small amounts of recycled glass or metallic flecks are added to the mix. The resins also help make these counters stain and scratch resistant—and nonporous, so they never need to be sealed. Compare that with granite, the reigning king of high-end countertops, which typically requires a new protective top coat at least once a year. 
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Having trouble deciding between granite and quartz for your countertops? We take a look at the pros and cons of each to help you make the choice that's best for your needs.

·         Place all of your protective coverings on your hands and body, including gloves, goggles and a face mask. Wear long sleeves and long pants. This is important because you will be working with an acid detergent.

Granite is a popular natural stone used to build countertops and sinks. It comes in a dizzying array of designer colors and adds textural interest to your kitchen or bathroom. Granite is durable, and pretty stain-resistant---but that doesn't mean your granite sink doesn't need cleaning. Using special products and simple techniques, you can care for your granite sink and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.

Granite is a popular natural stone used to build countertops and sinks. It comes in a dizzying array of designer colors and adds textural interest to your kitchen or bathroom. Granite is durable, and pretty stain-resistant---but that doesn't mean your granite sink doesn't need cleaning. Using special products and simple techniques, you can care for your granite sink and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.