Natural Stone
There are thousands of options when choosing Natural Stone. Granite, Marble, Quartzite, Limestone, Travertine, Soapstone, and Oynx are just some of the different materials available for countertops. There are many suppliers throughout Colorado that we have partnered with. These suppliers stock slabs that you can choose from on their website or in person at their showrooms. We have listed all the suppliers below.
There’s no right answer. The “best” material for kitchen countertop applications is completely dependent upon the preferences of the owner. It’s a personal decision. Whether white marble or alternatives to white marble are preferred, it’s important to know that all natural materials must be sealed prior to use and must be maintained over time. Here are a few details that will help you understand what to expect. If you have any questions please contact us.
Granite
An igneous rock of volcanic origin and is composed of 30% Quartz and 60% Feldspar, which gives it a high range of hardness. It is very resistant to high wear, with superior abrasion and resistance and compressive strength. It is available in wide range of colors. Granite is an excellent material for residential and commercial projects. It holds up to all types of weather and heavy usage.
Marble
Marble is an excellent choice for high-end designer finishes looking to differentiate from the uniformity that other stones are known for. Marble, unlike alternatives to marble (quartzite, granite, schist, sandstone, basalt, engineered stone and porcelain slabs), it is prone to etching and scratching. The benefit to marble is having a smaller price tag than most quartzites. Marble countertops provide a softer look and feel compared to other materials. NOTE: If you are considering using a polished marble, you may want to use it only on surfaces that do not come in contact with food or drink. Or you may choose to have the marble honed in a fabrication shop. Although steps can be taken to minimize the appearance of these characteristics, these signs of wear will occur on every marble, without exception.
travertine & limestone
Porous calcareous material. Travertine may vary in color from off-white to silver-grey, yellows, and browns. Travertine is ideal in bathrooms and flooring.
Onyx
Calcareous in nature with a very fine, tight grained and multi-veined appearance. This material can be translucent and therefore able to be back-lit and is synonymous with luxury building applications.
soapstone
Quarried naturally without synthetics and is composed primarily of talc, magnesite, dolomite, micas and chlorite. Soapstone offers a unique, soft color with light flowing veins. When oiled with a surface enhancer, such as a mineral oil, or Waxed an even more dramatic color variation is created.
QUARTZITE
Quartzite is among the most beautiful and most exotic stones in the world but does come at a higher price point. Quartzite is a natural stone with a hardness level exceeding that of granite. Quartzite’s have a high absorption rating and can stain when exposed to oil and highly-pigmented liquids. With newly developed highly resistant sealers it’s easier these days to protect your high end purchase, but does not mean without proper care it will stain. Due to the high abrasion resistance of quartzite, it can be difficult and expensive to fabricate. Most quartzite has naturally occurring cracks and fissures. Do not let this detour you from choosing quartzite though. If you are looking for an elegant, high-end kitchen or bathroom countertop material Quartzite should be your first choice.
Suppliers
Colorado Surfaces is proud to work with the following suppliers and many more. Contact us for information on where and how to see slab collections in person.
The Stone collection
10000 E. 45th Ave
Denver, CO 80238
map
303-307-8100
daltile
852 South Jason St., Unit 8
Denver, CO 80223
map
303-722-2800
crosville studios
5800 E Jewell Ave
Denver, CO 80224
map
303-759-1919
arizona tile
10100 E 45th Ave
Denver, CO 80238
map
303-574-2990
galleria of stone
12655 E 42nd Ave Unit 60
Denver, CO 80239
map
303-515-2904
Care and Maintenance
Marble
One of the most important steps in caring for marble is preventing stains and etches. When marble comes into contact with anything acidic, it can etch, which looks like a dull spot or burn mark.
Acidic products are common in the kitchen, including tomatoes, citrus fruits, juices, alcohol, and vinegar. Marble can also become stained; two of the biggest culprits are red wine and oil.
Prevent etching and stains by religiously using cutting boards, trivets, and coasters. Marble countertops should also be cleaned on a daily basis with a mild soap or stone cleaner. Marble should be sealed regularly, but our experts differ on how often. Check the manufacturers recommendations on the product label. Many sealers will last 10+ years and others only 6 months.
