The many types of countertops that you can choose from include granite, soapstone, quartz, concrete, and ceasarstone. Each one of these has heat resistant capabilities, but some perform better than others. Countertop choices that are considered heat-proof include granite, concrete, and marble. All of the countertop materials mentioned above offer some level of heat resistance. To be cautious you should use heat pads especially on Quartz counters. Same goes for cutting directly on them, as they may be somewhat scratch resistant its better to use a cutting board especially on the softer stones.

There is always a possibility of countertops staining, they are a natural porous material that absorbs liquids. Some are less likely to stain and all can be protected. With proper maintenance and sealing your counters will last a life time and look as good as the day you got them. We always make sure they are sealed once installed into your home.

Natural stone countertops are very easy to maintain. As long as you wash and seal them properly you will have no problems and they will last a lifetime. If you refer to down below there is a section about proper cleaning and maintenance (sealing) of your natural stone countertops. If you are looking for basically no maintenance at all we would suggest the Quartz route.

It’s safest if you seal at least once a year, twice a year on the lighter more porous materials. You could also perform a simple water test to see if your countertops need to be sealed. Pour a bit of water on the counter. 1/4 cup should be enough. Note the time that you placed the water on the counter and time the water to see how long it takes to absorb. Now use this chart to determine how often you need to seal: 

• Immediate absorption: Apply a couple layers of sealer annually and wipe spills quickly.
• 4-5 minutes: Multiple layers of sealer needed, but only redo every 3-5 years. Use this water test again before reapplying.
• 10 minutes: Apply a single layer of sealer; may be many years before reapplication is needed.
• 30 minutes (or doesn’t absorb): No need for sealer!

Clean your natural stone countertop with a mild kitchen cleaner and allow the counters to dry before proceeding. When completely dry, use another clean, dry cloth to apply the sealer. Use a lint-free cloth. Wet the cloth with impregnating sealer, and wipe the sealer onto the surface of the counter. It’s just that simple. Make sure the entire surface including edges and backsplashes are wet but not soaked. Allow the first coat to dry for five to ten minutes, and apply a second coat. When the second coat is dry, your stone countertop sealing job is complete. The full repellant effect is achieved within 24 hours, so wait a day before preparing food on the countertop.

Sealant is a must on all types of countertops. It ensures nothing seeps into the stone and prevents staining and cracking. Although most granite countertops don’t need to be sealed, it does help the stone resist dirt and spills, which can cause etching and staining. By its nature, granite is moisture-resistant — however, it’s also porous. Sealants block liquids from seeping into the granite. A properly sealed countertop will cause liquids to bead on the surface. When properly sealed with an impregnating product, the surface of your slate, granite or marble countertops will repel moisture and oil, virtually eliminating the risk of stains. However, it still makes sense to dry spills on the countertop and clean daily.

First make sure your counters are sealed. Be gentle, use warm water and a mild dish soap. Then just dry with a nice washcloth or micro-fiber cloth. DO NOT use windex or other acidic cleaners as this could take away the seal. If trying to disinfect mix a bottle 50/50 with water and 91% isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle and use that as a disinfectant.

They come from mother nature and rocks compressing for millions of years. Most of the marble comes out of Italy — and it is spectacular. However, marble also comes from Spain. Brazil and India supplies the majority of granite slabs. China has a unique supply of brown granite which is popular among homeowners.