Natural stone and engineered surfaces compared for variation, maintenance, durability and the way they age.
Natural stone comes out of the ground and every slab is different. Granite, marble, quartzite, soapstone and limestone offer one-of-a-kind patterns and a feel that cannot be copied. Engineered surfaces, such as quartz, porcelain and solid surface, are made in factories, with consistent colors, patterns that repeat and properties that are the same from slab to slab. Both can be beautiful and durable, and each asks for something different from its owner.
If you love variation, want a surface with character and are comfortable with sealing and a patina, natural stone is a great fit. If you want consistency, low upkeep and predictable performance, engineered surfaces shine. Many Nashville homes combine them, with an engineered island and a natural stone perimeter or the other way around. We bring samples of each and explain how they behave over time.
Natural stone varies. Engineered is consistent.
Natural stone needs sealing. Engineered usually does not.
Many are very hard. Marble and soapstone are softer.
Stone handles heat well. Quartz resin can scorch.
Stone develops a patina. Engineered looks the same.
Stone is unique. Engineered can mimic stone.
Countertop InstallationCareful installation of new countertops in kitchens, baths and more, measured, fabricated and set level.Explore 
Remodel and Renovation CountertopsCountertops timed and fitted for kitchen and bath remodels, including new layouts and moved fixtures.Explore 
Granite CountertopsNatural granite countertops, fabricated from slabs you choose, with edges, cutouts and sealing done right.Explore 
Onyx and Backlit Stone CountertopsTranslucent onyx and other glowing stone tops for bars, islands and feature walls, with lighting planned in.Explore 
Slate CountertopsDark, textured slate countertops for rustic and modern spaces, with sealing and care explained.Explore 
Quartz CountertopsEngineered quartz countertops with consistent patterns, low upkeep and a huge range of colors and finishes.Explore 
Concrete CountertopsCustom concrete countertops with unique color, texture and shape, sealed for everyday use.Explore 
Commercial CountertopsDurable countertops for businesses, from offices and shops to clinics and cafes, planned around heavy daily use.Explore Check problems, pick a material or ballpark a budget.
Countertop Problem Checker: What Is Wrong?Pick what you see on a countertop to get likely causes, what to do first and the service page that fits.Try it 
Countertop Material PickerAnswer a few questions about how you cook, clean and live to see which countertop materials usually fit best.Try it 
Countertop Budget PlannerPick a material or job, set the square footage and add extras to see a ballpark planning range for your countertop project.Try it Many stones are very durable, but durability varies. Soft stones scratch and etch.
They are different. Quartz is consistent and low upkeep, and granite handles heat better.
Yes, many kitchens do. We help you coordinate colors and finishes.
Topic guideCountertop MaterialsGranite, quartz, marble, quartzite, porcelain, solid surface, butcher block, concrete and laminate compared for upkeep, strength, heat and…Learn more 
Topic guideEdge ProfilesEased, beveled, bullnose, ogee, mitered and waterfall edges compared for style, safety and cleaning.Learn more 
Topic guideCountertop FinishesPolished, honed, leathered and brushed finishes compared for sheen, fingerprints, etching and cleaning.Learn more 
Topic guideSinks and CutoutsUndermount, drop-in, apron-front and integrated sinks compared for look, cleaning and what each needs from the countertop.Learn more Call us and describe your project. We will look at your space, talk through materials and give you a clear written estimate.
