Best for:
Pros of Stone Countertops
With the right maintenance, stone countertops can last a lifetime, offering an excellent return on investment. When you compare engineered stone to natural stone, it’s even more durable. Choose quartz (a mix of stone and resin) over natural granite or marble for the longest life span.
Every granite or marble slab has its own unique shade and speckles or veining, making it perfect for those who want a one-of-a-kind surface. And there’s no need to worry about hot pans leaving scorch marks on these heat-resistant surfaces.
Cons of Stone Countertops
Cutting granite countertops or another stone is tricky, and the slabs are heavy. Plus, while stone countertops are tough when installed, they can easily crack if you drop them during the process—and you’ll have to pay for a whole new slab if you damage it. It’s better to leave installation and tricky repairs to a local countertop installer.
Butcher Block vs. Stone Countertops
It’s no wonder butcher block and stone countertops are popular; both have a lot going for them.
Appearance: Tie
Butcher block and stone countertops are both beautiful, but which one looks best depends on the aesthetic you’re aiming for. Luxurious natural stone is often the top choice for classy, cool, contemporary kitchens, while butcher block works well in cozy, rustic farmhouse kitchen designs.
Durability: Stone
Stone countertops are the clear winner in terms of durability. While butcher block can last at least a couple of decades with the right maintenance, it can crack and warp over time. Some stone is more durable than others, but it’s scratch-resistant and hard-wearing. With the right care, you might never need to replace your countertops again. This is especially true of quartz, the toughest of them all.
Price: Butcher Block
It’s possible to spend about the same amount on butcher block and stone countertops, but butcher block is often less expensive. The average cost of butcher block countertops is $3,750, and the average cost of quartz countertops is $4,500. It all comes down to the specific material you choose. The least expensive wood, red oak, costs $15 to $50 per square foot, bamboo costs $50 to $125, and standard granite costs $40 to $60.
Ease of Installation: Butcher Block
DIY butcher block installation is more doable. Stone countertops are heavy, awkward to transport and lift, and tricky to cut, and it’s almost always better to leave fitting to a pro. Butcher block is still heavy, but you’re less likely to damage it when cutting (and more likely to have the tools to do it) or maneuvering it.
Ease of Repair: Butcher Block
Wood is less durable, so you’ll likely need to complete repairs on butcher block at some point. However, the cost to repair countertops made from wood is typically less than those made from stone, and DIY repairs are more straightforward. While very resistant to damage, certain stone countertops cannot be easily repaired and require an entire—expensive—replacement.
Maintenance: Stone
Quartz countertops are non-porous and very low-maintenance. You might need to seal granite countertops or marble annually, but they’re easy to clean. However, butcher block is the most high-maintenance, requiring monthly oil application and frequent sealing.
Options and Customizations: Tie
Both butcher block and stone countertops come in a wide range of shades and patterns. You can stain butcher block to achieve a certain color, and the cut of the grain can produce different effects. Marble and granite have unique patternations but are limited to the stone’s natural shades. Meanwhile, manufactured quartz comes in many colors and patterns to fit your design dreams.
