Quartz: Marble-like

Quartz surfaces are very popular these days. Because quartz countertops are manufactured, the color and pattern possibilities are limitless — including varieties that are almost identical to granite or marble. Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of quartz surfaces is that they are non-porous and stain resistant, making them low maintenance, not needing to be sealed and highly resistant to mold and bacteria contamination.

PROS Samples are representative of the slab Some are mid-range cost No sealing needed Non-porous Resistant to stains and scratches

CONS Some are high-end cost Seams can be more visible Some brands have patterns that look artificial Can be sensitive to UV rays and extremely high temperatures