What are Natural Stone Benchtops? Expert Guide for Perth Homeowners

Want to get natural stone benchtops but not sure if they’re right for you?

Perth homeowners love the look of natural stone but are worried about durability, upkeep, and price. Others don’t know how to choose the right stone for daily use & long-term value. These concerns are common, and are perfectly understandable.

But no worries, experts are here to help you with this natural stone benchtop guide.

We’ll discuss their history, different types available, and the pros and cons of each. By the end, you’ll know which natural stone benchtop is the best fit for your space.

Natural Stone History | Let’s Explore the Origin

The natural stone started forming around 3.8 billion years ago with the formation of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.

Humans began using natural stone in Palaeolithic era to make tools, objects, and statues. With time, natural stone replaced wood in construction due to its strength. It was used for building structures like dolmens and protective walls.

Then Greeks & Romans advanced the use of natural stone. Marble was used in their temples and public spaces. In the medieval era, natural stone was a part of castles and cathedrals.

The 19th and 20th centuries introduced new technologies like diamond cutting for intricate designs. This period saw natural stone benchtops in modern interiors. Now, natural stone benchtops continue to be a top choice for elegance and durability in spaces.

Trend of Natural Stone Benchtops in Perth

“Natural stone benchtops are countertops made from solid slabs of stone that are extracted directly from the earth.”

Now that natural materials are back in focus. You’ll see high demand for natural stone benchtops Perth in both new builds and renovations. Homeowners love these benchtops for their style, luxury, and sophistication.

Each piece has distinct patterns (veining) and colours. Means a stand out piece in your space. Popular options include marble and granite, but there are several other varieties too.

Let’s explore different types of natural stone benchtops.

What are the Different Types of Natural Stone Benchtops Perth?

Have a look at this simple and easy table of natural stone benchtop types:

Type	Description	Features
Granite	Durable stone benchtop with unique, glitter-like appearance and varied colours and patterns.	Non-porous and stain-resistant Durable and hard-wearing Variety of colours, finishes and patterns available Requires sealing
Marble	Features a classy look and unique veining patterns.	Luxurious appearance Requires maintenance to prevent staining and scratching Expensive
Caesarstone	Another durable option made from natural quartz and resins.	Non-porous Resistant to stains, scratches and chips Maintains colour over time Customisable
Dolomite	Popular for its attractive patterns, veining and colours.	Harder than marble Softer than granite White and grey tones
Limestone	Natural & earthy appeal with a traditional look.	Soft and porous Susceptible to scratching and staining
Travertine	Type of limestone with soft beige base and fine silver veins.	Softer and more porous Don’t suit high-traffic areas Requires regular maintenance
Onyx	A luxurious stone with a luminous quality that can be backlight for a stunning effect.	Soft and prone to scratching Best for decorative features or low-traffic areas

Learn more at: Different Types of Stone Benchtops

Pros and Cons of Natural Stone Benchtops

Pros of Natural Stone Benchtops

Let’s have a look at their wide range of benefits.

✅ Durable & Long-Lasting

One of the standout benefits of natural stone benchtops is their incredible durability. They can withstand scratches, heat, and daily wear and tear. So, you can use them in busy areas like kitchens in Perth where spills and stains are common.

✅ Variety of Materials & Styles

Natural stone benchtops come in a range of materials, like marble, granite, and quartzite. Each type offers its own unique patterns and textures. So, you have plenty of options to match your home’s style.

✅ Diverse Design Possibility

Natural stone benchtops can suit different interior designs. So, if your home has a modern, traditional, or rustic vibe, natural stone will go with it. It will stay relevant for years even if you change your interior decor.

✅ Environmentally-Friendly

Natural stone is an environmentally friendly option compared to the man-made stone. It’s formed naturally and sourced with care to minimise ecological harm. Plus, it doesn’t contain harmful chemicals, and its long lifespan means fewer replacements and less waste.

✅ Increase Your Home Value

High-quality, luxurious features like natural stone are appealing to buyers. They’ll be willing to pay a premium for a home with such elegant details. So, choosing natural stone will offer a good return on investment when it’s time to sell.

Cons of Natural Stone Benchtops

Every material has some downsides to it and natural stone is no exception.

❌ Acid Sensitivity

Some natural stone benchtops are sensitive to acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, and red wine. They can cause damage if spills aren’t cleaned up promptly. However, granite and quartzite are safe options.

❌ Care & Maintenance

Natural stone benchtops require some effort to keep looking their best. You need to seal the surface periodically with regular cleaning of spills and stains.

❌ Cost

It’s true that natural stone is expensive than artificial materials. But there are plenty of options in affordable colours and styles too. Plus, if you keep durability and benefits in mind, price is quite reasonable.

How to Choose the Right Natural Stone Benchtop?

Choosing the right stone starts with how you live. A kitchen needs a different surface than a benchtop used in vanity. So before choosing, watch out for the following factors.

Lifestyle	Choose durable options like granite or quartzite if you have busy lifestyle or children. They also handle spills better as natural stone kitchen benchtops.
Maintenance	Marble requires more attention than granite. Match the stone to your habits and maintenance needs to prevent frustration.
Colour Choice	Light-coloured natural stone benchtops reflect light and make kitchens larger. But they show stains, etching, and marks. Dark stones hide wear better but absorb light.
Finish	Polished stone reflects light and highlights veining. Honed finishes feel softer and hide minor marks better. Leathered finishes add texture and grip. Each finish changes how the stone looks and behaves in daily use.
Thickness and edge detail	Thicker stone feels solid and premium but costs more. Slim profiles suit modern kitchens but may require extra support. Edge profiles affect both appearance and safety, especially in family homes.

Always view full slabs in person to understand colour movement and pattern flow. Small samples cannot show natural variation. And go to experienced natural stone suppliers if you want honest advice and less surprises.

Learn more about: Tips to Choose the Best Natural Stone Benchtops for You

Natural Stone Benchtop Cost Explained

The natural stone benchtop cost varies widely with a number of factors. Stone type is the biggest factor. Common stones like granite are more affordable. Rare stones with unique veining or limited availability cost more.

Slab size and thickness also affect price. Thicker stone increases material cost and fabrication time. Some designs require book matching, which increases labour and stone usage. Edge profiles and finishes (leathered or brushed) influence the cost as well.

Natural stone is not the cheapest benchtop option, but it lasts for years once bought. On the other hand, alternatives need replacements and cost you more in the long term.

Maintenance Tips for Natural Stone Benchtops

Caring for natural stone benchtops is easy, but you have to be consistent.

• Seal it regularly every 12 to 24 months to create a barrier that slows down absorption and reduces staining. Because stone is a porous material which absorb liquids.

• Daily cleaning should always be gentle. Use warm water and a mild dish detergent only. Wipe the surface with a soft cloth or sponge.

• Avoid abrasive pads and strong chemical cleaners as they can damage the sealer and make the finish dull.

• Spills should be cleaned as soon as possible. Acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, wine, and tomato sauce cause etching or staining.

• Always use chopping boards instead of cutting directly on the stone.

• Place hot pots on trivets rather than directly on the surface as extra precaution.

• Avoid placing heavy objects on unsupported edges. Sitting or standing on benchtops can stress the stone, especially around cut-outs.

• If damage does occur, refer to professionals for chips, scratches, and stains.

If you follow regular sealing, gentle cleaning, and mindful use, natural stone benchtops last for decades. They do not wear out quickly and are a timeless choice.

Contact Master Tops to Get the Best Stone Bench tops for Your Home

We design and install silica-free stone benchtops to enhance the beauty and functionality of your home. If you're looking for natural stone Perth, our expert team can help you find the suitable and affordable option.

So, don’t wait.

Call us at (08) 6161 1969

Explore our Stone Benchtops

Request a Quote Now