Quartz is an engineered stone product consisting of 93% natural quartz and 7% resins and pigments. There are many different brands and colours available at a variety of price points. Because of the resins and the way it's made, it is a non-porous material that does not require any sealer. It is very heat tolerant, but not quite as heat tolerant as granite so it is recommended that you use trivets or hot pads under hot pots. Quartz is also extremely resistant to scratching and staining, making it a top choice. With colours ranging from solid to speckled to very natural looking like granite or marble, you are sure to find a colour that works for you.

Marble, like granite, is a natural stone. Unlike granite, it is a sedimentary, metamorphic stone which started as limestone and, once superheated, turns into marble. It is a soft stone which is very susceptible to scratches, staining and etching (caused by anything acidic). Although marble does not get along with anything acidic, it is extremely heat tolerant. Marble is a porous material and will be sealed with a 10 year impregnating sealer prior to install. Sealers will help protect stone against staining, but they do not protect stone from etching. If you are okay with character, Marble is for you!