Materials
Natural Stone Countertops in Seattle and the Eastside
Granite, marble, quartzite and softer stones, each formed by the earth and different on every slab.
In plain language
What Natural Stone Is and How It Behaves
- Every slab unique
- No resins
- Care varies by stone
Natural stone is the broad category of countertop surfaces cut from rock formed by the earth. It includes granite, marble, quartzite, soapstone, limestone and travertine.
Each stone behaves differently. Granite and quartzite are hard and heat tolerant. Marble, limestone and travertine are softer and need more care. Soapstone is soft and develops a patina. We help you match the stone to how you use the space.
Honest trade-offs
Natural Stone: Strengths and Cautions
Strengths
- No synthetic additives or resins
- Every slab is one of a kind
- Most stones handle hot pans well
- A wide range of looks, from speckled to veined
Cautions
- Most stones need sealing, on different schedules
- Softer stones can etch, scratch or stain
- Slab-to-slab variation means you must approve the exact slab
Real projects
Natural Stone Colors and Patterns
Where it works
Where Natural Stone Works Best
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Outdoor surfaces
- Commercial projects
Real projects
Natural Stone Installed
Questions
Natural Stone: Your Questions Answered
Granite, marble, quartzite, soapstone, limestone and travertine are the main types. Each has its own look and care needs.
Most types do, though the schedule varies by stone. Soapstone is the exception, and many owners leave it unsealed to build a patina.
Granite and quartzite are the usual picks for heavy use. Marble suits those who accept patina.
Granite and quartzite handle outdoor use well. Marble and limestone are not recommended outdoors.
Natural stone comes straight from the earth, so each slab is unique and often more heat tolerant. Quartz is more uniform and does not need sealing.
Interested in Natural Stone? Get a free quote
Share photos, rough sizes and the material you like. We will help you take the next step.