The term natural stone countertop in Minneapolis is sure to attract people that want to have a beautiful, durable and classic look in their kitchen, bathroom or other rooms in the home.
While both marble and granite are considered ideal options for countertops, there are some important differences in the quality and the installation you can expect from different natural stone countertop companies.
As a consumer, knowing what to ask and how to evaluate the expertise and the services available from different suppliers will help you to choose the best company offering the best quality of granite or marble.
Marble Grades
Marble is quarried in the areas where it is produced, with significant types of marble, most specifically Carrara, mined in that area of Italy. Other areas of the world also produce marble, including in the United States throughout Alabama, Tennessee, Texas, Colorado, Montana, and Vermont.
All marble quarried will be graded as either a premium or a commercial grade. There are other sub-categories as well, with premium marble usually considered the best option for countertops. Some commercial-grade slabs, which are smaller slabs with slight to significant color and veining inconsistencies, can also be ideal for counters and are available at a lower price. Less than reputable companies may try to sell commercial grade slabs for countertops at premium grade prices.
Granite
Granite is also graded by color and veining as well as pitting, thickness and the content of “soft minerals” in the stone. The types of soft minerals depend on the location of the quarry, which means that some quarries will only produce commercial grade while others can produce mid and high grade.
Commercial grade is thin granite that is about 3/8 of an inch thick with typical colors. Mid-grade is thicker granite that has good colors and veining but may have some slight surface pitting or irregular veining.
The highest grade of granite is typically about three quarters to one and a quarter inches thick, similar to mid-grade, but it has a smooth surface, a low percentage of soft minerals and has a unique color and appearance that make it an ideal addition to any Minneapolis home renovation.