Choosing the Right Natural Stone for Your Home

Natural stone is durable, expressive, and unlike anything manufactured. No two slabs are the same, and that variation is part of what makes it appealing—but it also means some stones are better suited to certain uses than others.

We fabricate natural stone for a wide range of interior and exterior applications, including kitchen and bath countertops, showers, fireplace surrounds, furniture tops, and more. Each project starts with understanding how the space will be used and what matters most to you.

Different stones perform differently. Some are harder, some more forgiving, some require more care, and some age beautifully with use. Below is a brief overview of common stone types and what they’re best suited for, so you can make an informed decision with confidence.

Granite

Granite is a dense natural stone that works well in many kitchens and high-use spaces. It handles heat and everyday wear better than most stones, and with reasonable care, it holds up well over time. It’s a solid, forgiving option for homeowners who want natural stone without a lot of fuss.

Granite is available in a range of finishes. We typically recommend leathered or textured surfaces because they hide wear well and are easier to maintain over time.

Marble

Marble is a softer natural stone with a timeless look. It does require more care than denser stones and will show wear over time. Marble can scratch and etch from acids, but many homeowners choose it for its long-standing, traditional appeal. It’s best thought of as a living surface—one that develops character through use rather than staying perfectly uniform.

Soapstone

Soapstone is a softer natural stone that works well in kitchens because it’s typically finished with penetrating oils or wax-based sealers that darken the surface and help wear blend in. Scratches and marks tend to even out rather than stand out. It has a long history of use and a quiet, classic look that ages consistently over time.

Quartzite

Quartzite is often chosen for its dramatic look. The material can vary significantly, so we usually recommend a leathered finish to make wear less noticeable. It handles heat well, but durability depends heavily on the specific slab.

Limestone

Limestone is a softer natural stone with a calm, understated look. It requires sealing and will show wear over time, especially in kitchens. It’s best suited for homeowners who value a natural, muted surface and are comfortable with a stone that changes with use.

Travertine

Travertine is a softer, porous natural stone known for its textured, traditional look. It will show wear and variation over time and is typically chosen for its appearance rather than performance.

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Onyx

Onyx is a translucent natural stone often used for its visual impact. It can be backlit for dramatic effect, but it’s soft and not suited for everyday countertop use. Onyx works best as a visual feature rather than a high-use surface.

Slate

Slate is a natural stone known for its darker, matte appearance. While it can handle heat and moisture reasonably well, durability varies by material, and some slate is softer or more layered than others.

Below all of the slab images, change the text to this:The gallery above shows a range of materials and styles, but stone availability changes all the time. Reach out and we’ll help you explore what’s currently available and what makes sense for your project.

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