Marble vs Quartz countertops
Marble vs Quartz countertops
Marble vs Quartz Countertops: Choosing the Best Surface for Your Vancouver Home
Looking for the perfect surface for your kitchen or bathroom renovation? In Vancouver, marble vs quartz countertops is a common debate among homeowners. Both materials offer beautiful aesthetics and long-term value — but which one is right for your lifestyle?
Why Marble vs Quartz Countertops Is a Popular Choice in Vancouver
Homeowners in Vancouver often face the decision between marble vs quartz countertops. While marble offers classic luxury, quartz provides durability and low maintenance. Understanding the difference can help you make the right decision for your home.
What Are Marble Countertops?
Marble countertops are made from natural stone quarried from mountains. Each slab is unique and features elegant veining that adds luxury to any space. Marble is ideal for Vancouver homes aiming for a timeless, high-end design.
Pros of Marble Countertops
• Timeless and luxurious appearance
• Cool surface, great for baking
• Naturally unique patterns and veining
Cons of Marble Countertops
• Requires sealing to prevent stains
• Can etch with acidic substances
• Softer and more porous than quartz
What Are Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertops are engineered from natural quartz crystals mixed with resins. They are non-porous and available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Quartz is a great option for busy Vancouver households looking for easy maintenance.
Pros of Quartz Countertops
• Extremely durable and scratch-resistant
• Does not require sealing
• Uniform appearance with many design options
Cons of Quartz Countertops
• Less natural-looking than marble
• Sensitive to heat
• Typically more expensive than basic materials
Marble vs Quartz Countertops: Which One Is Better for You?
If you want a classic, natural surface and don’t mind some maintenance, marble is a beautiful choice. If low maintenance and durability are your priorities, quartz countertops are the better pick — especially in high-traffic areas.
Expert Fabrication and Installation in Vancouver
At Artin Stone Co., we help homeowners across Vancouver choose and install the perfect countertop. Whether you’re leaning toward quartz or marble, our fabrication team ensures quality, precision, and elegance in every project.
📩 Contact us today or visit our showroom to view marble and quartz slabs in person.
Helpful Resources
Learn more about stone options from the Natural Stone Institute: https
Compare styles and colors at Caesarstone
Explore Our Gallery: Custom Countertops in West Vancouver Projects
Stone Maintenance in Real Life: What to Expect Over Time
Proper maintenance is essential to maintaining the surface’s beauty and functionality, whether you intend to install a sleek quartz surface or a gorgeous marble. Let’s examine the crucial hints and techniques to maintain the gleaming surface of your countertop for many years to come. Let’s examine the crucial hints and techniques to maintain the gleaming surface of your countertop for many years to come.
Marble vs Quartz Comparison Table
| Marble | Quartz | |
| Origin | Natural stone made of limestone | About 90% of the engineered stone is natural quartz. |
| Visual Appeal | Unique patterns; variety of colors | Consistent patterns; wide color range |
| Durability | Susceptible to scratches; porous | Highly durable; non-porous |
| Maintenance | Requires sealing; sensitive to acidic substances | Low maintenance; stain-resistant |
| Installation Complexity | Requires expertise due to natural variations | More consistent, but still demands precision |
| Price Per Square Foot | $40 – $200 (can be higher for rare varieties) | $40 – $150 (varies by brand and design) |
| Environmental Impact | Extracted from quarries; limited resource | Manufactured; uses natural quartz |
| Heat Resistance | Moderate; can be affected by extreme temperatures | High, but prolonged heat can cause damage |
| Resale Value | Often seen as luxurious; can increase home value | Increasing in popularity; good resale potential |
| Popular Uses | Statement pieces, bathrooms, some kitchens | Kitchens, bathrooms, high-traffic areas |
Marble vs Quartz Countertops: Installation and Fabrication Process
When choosing between marble vs quartz countertops, understanding the installation and fabrication process can help you make a more informed decision. While both materials result in stunning surfaces, their handling, preparation, and installation differ in a few key ways.
Stone Fabrication: How It Starts
The fabrication process begins once you’ve selected your marble or quartz slab. At Artin Stone Co., our team carefully inspects each slab before precise cutting begins. Using CNC machines and waterjet technology, we ensure exact dimensions, edge details, and cutouts for sinks or stovetops.
Marble Countertop Fabrication
Marble, being a natural stone, requires delicate handling. Each slab varies in veining and density, so our fabricators map out each cut to showcase the stone’s beauty while reducing waste.
Edges are shaped and polished using specialized tools, and the surface is sealed to protect against stains. Any cracks or imperfections are filled with epoxy or resin blends matched to the stone.
Quartz Countertop Fabrication
Quartz, an engineered stone, is more consistent in texture and strength, making it slightly easier to cut and fabricate. It’s less prone to cracking during fabrication, which allows for faster turnaround times.
Because quartz is non-porous, it does not require sealing. However, care must be taken when fabricating around complex edges or corners, as resin-based surfaces can chip under pressure.
Installation Process for Marble and Quartz
Once fabrication is complete, the installation team delivers and fits the countertops on-site. Both marble and quartz slabs are heavy and require professional handling.
Installers level the cabinets, apply adhesive, align seams, and secure the slab in place. Marble installations may require additional on-site sealing, while quartz is ready for use immediately after install.
Timeline and Preparation Tips
• Slab selection to install typically takes 7–14 business days.
• Ensure cabinets are level and structurally sound before templating.
• Plumbing and electrical should be disconnected prior to install day.
• Avoid DIY installation — both materials are heavy and valuable.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Installation
Whether you choose marble or quartz countertops, understanding their fabrication and installation process helps you plan better and avoid surprises. At Artin Stone Co., we provide full-service support — from slab selection to final polish — for homeowners and designers across Vancouver.