Natural stone benchtops bring an undeniable sense of elegance and permanence to any home. Materials like granite and marble are spectacular, yet they are often surrounded by misinformation. Many Australian homeowners hesitate to choose natural stone because of long-standing myths about its cost, durability, and maintenance.
This post will debunk six common myths about stone benchtops. We want to provide you with the facts so you can confidently choose a beautiful, timeless, and functional natural stone for your home or commercial project.
Debunking Stone Benchtop Misconceptions
Let’s look at the truth behind the myths surrounding stone benchtops in Australia.
Myth 1: Natural Stone is Difficult to Maintain
One of the biggest concerns homeowners have is that natural stone requires high maintenance. While it’s true that proper care is key to longevity, maintaining a stone benchtop is simpler than you might think. With the proper precautions, it’s an easy and low-cost task.
The most critical step is sealing the stone upon installation. A quality sealant acts as a barrier, preventing liquids from penetrating the surface. Depending on the type of stone and how heavily it’s used, you may need to re-seal it every few years. Beyond that, daily care is straightforward: wipe up spills quickly, especially acidic substances like wine, citrus juice, or vinegar. This simple habit is the best way to prevent staining and etching, keeping your benchtop looking pristine for years to come.
Myth 2: Marble Isn’t Suitable for Kitchen Benchtops
This is a very common myth. The idea that marble is too delicate for a busy kitchen causes many to overlook it. However, with proper care, marble is an excellent choice. It has been used in kitchens for centuries, and for good reason. Bakers particularly love marble because its cool surface is perfect for preparing dough and pastries.
The primary concern with marble is its porous nature, which makes it susceptible to etching from acidic substances. The solution is simple: clean spills immediately. If you are diligent with wiping down your benchtop, you can enjoy the unmatched beauty of marble in your kitchen without worry. It’s about mindful use, not complete avoidance.
Myth 3: Natural Stone is a Passing Trend
For thousands of years, stone has been a fundamental material in construction and design, from ancient monuments to modern skyscrapers. It is a material that truly stands the test of time. Natural stone offers a vast palette of colours, patterns, and grains, making it adaptable to any architectural style, be it classic, contemporary, or rustic.
Unlike synthetic materials that can quickly look dated, natural stone possesses a timeless quality. Its beauty and function have been celebrated for centuries, and it continues to be a preferred choice for designers and architects. Investing in a natural stone benchtop is a safe bet against fleeting design trends.
Myth 4: Natural Stone is Prohibitively Expensive
Many people believe that natural stone is only for those with the highest budgets. While it’s true that some rare and exotic stones carry a premium price tag, there is a broad spectrum of stone options available to fit more modest budgets. Many types of granite, for example, are highly affordable and competitive with other benchtop materials.
When you consider the longevity and durability of natural stone compared to synthetic alternatives, it proves to be a very cost-effective investment. A stone benchtop can last a lifetime, whereas other materials may need to be replaced after 10-15 years. This long-term value makes natural stone an intelligent financial choice for your property.
Myth 5: Restoring Damaged Stone is Nearly Impossible
Accidents happen, and the thought of a crack or chip in a beautiful stone benchtop can be daunting. Whether from the impact of a heavy object or another mishap, damage can occur. However, this doesn’t mean you have to replace the entire slab.
For the most common issues like small cracks, chips, or stains, a qualified stonemason can perform near-invisible repairs. These experts have techniques to fix the damage and restore the stone’s original beauty. With proper care, your stone benchtops can last for decades without needing any repairs, but it’s reassuring to know that solutions are available if the unexpected happens.
Myth 6: Investing in Natural Stone Isn’t a Wise Decision
While the upfront cost of natural stone can be higher than that of some other materials, it’s an investment that pays dividends. Stone benchtops possess unique characteristics that other surface coverings can’t match. They are incredibly durable, resisting wear and tear while retaining their visual appeal for decades.
Furthermore, a quality stone benchtop significantly increases the value of your property. In the competitive Australian real estate market, a kitchen or bathroom featuring natural stone is a significant selling point. When the time comes to sell your home, this investment will likely yield a substantial return, making it one of the smartest upgrades you can make.
Final Words
Now that we’ve cleared up these myths, you can see that natural stone is a beautiful, long-lasting, and functional choice for any home. It offers timeless appeal and an excellent return on investment.
If you’re looking for a custom stone benchtop for your home, give us a call. We are leading stone suppliers and manufacturers in Australia, offering high-quality stone benchtops. Let Stone Benchtops Direct help you find the perfect stone for your next project.