Replacing Bathroom Countertops

Materials

Material dramatically influences the appearance and durability of your bathroom project. Before making a decision, consider your current bathroom style and how often you use it.

For example, are you remodeling a guest bathroom, your children’s bathroom, or a master bathroom strictly reserved for you?

To make your decision process easier, we’ll cover some pros and cons of the most popular countertop materials.

Granite

Granite’s timeless appearance and versatility are a couple of reasons why this material is the top choice among homeowners. The stone comes in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures. With that said, granite is rare, which is a potential drawback.

No two natural granite stones are the same. Therefore, finding multiple identical slabs is next to impossible. But rest assured, there is likely a similar variation of two granite slabs.

Durability and low maintenance are granite’s most attractive features. It is perfect for busy family households because it is resistant to chips and scratches. The material is also moisture resistant. Still, it is a stone and somewhat porous, so damage can happen over time.

A fabrication professional will seal the granite. A proper seal causes liquids to bead on top of the stone rather than sink into it. Still, err on the side of caution. Wipe away spilled liquids as soon as possible, and you shouldn’t have any problems!

Marble

When people think of marble, they think of luxury, and for a good reason! Marble countertops are breathtaking and available in multiple styles.

Marble countertops are high-maintenance, even though they are easy on the eyes. If you have a house full of young children or frequently host guests, marble is not the best choice. The material’s limestone makeup is extremely porous.

Therefore, marble is sensitive to moisture, heat, and pressure. To prevent issues, ensure your installers seal the material. After installation, avoid resting hot hair tools on the countertop and exposing it to liquids—especially acidic ones.

Quartz

Quartz is an engineered material composed primarily of natural stone but mixed with polyresins. The engineered stone offers an endless variety of low-maintenance, identical slabs and superior durability.

The polyresin additives also make for solid and nonporous material. If you have a busy bathroom susceptible to water splashes from kids and guests or condensation from long showers, quartz is your material!

Quartz is also less likely to crack or scratch. However, the resins are prone to heat damage. Therefore, refrain from resting curling irons and hair straighteners on the counter for long periods.

Quartzite

Quartzite is the natural stone found in quartz. Because it is a natural stone, finding identical slabs is difficult.

Additionally, the material is primarily available in white and grey patterns. If a full renovation isn’t in the plans, and these shades don’t match your bathroom’s scheme, opt for a different material.

Aside from appearance, many homeowners favor quartzite for its low maintenance and strength. It is less porous than marble but still requires sealing. Like granite, wipe away spilled liquids as soon as possible.

The solid stone is heat resistant and difficult to damage. Much like granite and quartz, it’s functional in guest, kid, and master bathrooms.

Porcelain

Porcelain slabs are a manufactured material comparable to quartz. Porcelain countertops are nonporous, low maintenance, and long-lasting with no seal! However, unlike quartz, porcelain is resistant to heat.

Keep in mind—porcelain slabs are still new to the market. The material is delicate and difficult to handle during manufacturing, so you’ll want to find an experienced company to fabricate them for you.

Can I Only Replace My Bathroom Countertops? 

Solely replacing your countertops is an affordable and easy way to enhance a bathroom.

However, replacing your vanity alongside the countertop is sometimes necessary. Older cabinets can’t always withstand the weight of heavy materials like marble and granite.

If you’re planning on keeping your current vanity, talk to your contractor about your options. A lighter material, like porcelain, is the best option. 

How to Choose a Professional

Remodeling any part of your home is a big deal. Selecting the right fabricator will ease the process. Washington Marble Works ensures customers receive what they want by employing a thorough installation process.

From finding you a high-quality cabinet maker to confirming your satisfaction with an installation checklist—the fabricator is there every step of the way.