With gray and white countertops becoming more popular by the minute, there couldn’t be a better time to talk about Dolomite Countertops.
This lesser-known stone is surfing on the trend to become a great option for those people looking for the looks of marble on a more durable and less expensive option. But is it a good choice for your kitchen?
In this article, you will find all the information you need in order to make a choice.
What is Dolomite?
Dolomite is a sedimentary rock, which is the result of limestone and lime mud coming into contact with groundwater rich in magnesium. That said, the rock is very similar to limestone in composition and also in color scheme.
It is also called dolostone, due to the confusion that can be made with the mineral dolomite, which is a significant part of the stone’s composition.
Dolomite countertops are simply high polished slabs cut from the dolomite rock, and as you can see in pictures, they look great. So much that they’re very commonly sold as marble or quartzite.
Nevertheless, this confusion has to end, since dolomite is not as hard and resistant as quartzite or as soft and fragile as marble.
Let’s go into the specifics of dolomite features, so you can know all the pros of cons of choosing this stone as your countertop material.
Dolomite Countertops: Appearance
Dolomite Countertops are more often found in gray and white, and usually contain streaks that allow it to resemble marble better than quartzite. And that’s exactly why they’re popular right now.
However, even though it’s rare, you can find them in hues of other colors, such as brown, pink, black, and green.
Its appearance is perfect for being used as countertop and backsplash materials, as its traits lend themselves easily to the creation of sophisticated interior designs.
Hardness (Resistance To Scratches)
When it comes to hardness, it’s normally said that dolomite sits between marble and granite, and although that is true, it can be misleading.
Dolomite is definitely a great option for those willing to use marble, and it is considerably more resistant to scratches than that stone. However, don’t expect it to be almost scratch-proof like granite and quartzite, you will still need to be careful.
Dolomite countertops will be scratched by glass and metal, so cutting boards should never be dismissed, and you need to be careful when handling silverware on it.
Durability Of Dolomite
You can expect a dolomite countertop to outperform marble and last even longer. Consider we’re talking about stones that can last decades, remaining beautiful if care is taken.
The stone is very resistant to wear and tear, and although it is more prone to cracking and chipping than granite, it most likely won’t happen.
Resistance To Stains
Dolomite is both less liquid absorbent and less sensitive to acids than marble. However, it still requires periodic (most likely annual) sealing. And acids are a no-no, dolomite will etch if exposed to them.
By choosing dolomite, you can feel safer than with marble, but you’ll still need to give it some maintenance, and you should always be careful with it.
Dolomite Countertops: Heat Resistance
This is probably dolomite countertops’ greatest strength over quartz. The engineered stone is offered in beautiful white and gray hues as well, and it is more resistant to scratches and stains than dolomite.
But quartz can’t take heat or sunlight, a hot pan will mark it for life. Dolomite can, and it will hold heat really well. One less thing to worry about.
Dolomite Price
This is an area that will help establish dolomite as a great option. Most of its varieties are more affordable than marble, quartz and even granite. However, you should always get a quote from a stone supplier in your city to be sure.
Dolomite countertops: Pros And Cons
To have all this information in one place, we gathered them all in this table:
| Dolomite Pros | Dolomite Cons |
|---|---|
| Heat resistance | Vulnerable to scratches and etchings |
| Pressure resistance | Although it is durable enough, you have some more durable options of material in the market |
| Wide array of colors and shades | Being porous, dolomite is still to vulnerable to stains and blemishes |
| Each slab is unique, which makes for truly aesthetic appealing designs | If not properly sealed, can be easily damaged by acid |
| Easy maintenance | Requires periodical sealing |
| Easy to locate and acquire | |
| More affordable when compared to other materials |
Are Dolomite Countertops The Right Choice For Me?
Now that you’re aware of all its characteristics, pros and cons, you’re definitely more ready to answer that question. If you’re all set on a white or gray countertop we can help you narrow down your choices.
Marble will offer looks that are out of this world, but it is the more fragile choice.
Quartz will offer great options, durability and less maintenance, but it can’t take much heat or sunlight.
Dolomite offers great looks for a more affordable price, but although it’s easier to take care of than marble, it still requires plenty of attention.
With that in mind, visit a stone supplier and find out which stone will be able to get to your heart. If you’re living in Sarasota or Bradenton, we will be more than happy to have you over our showroom.
FAQ
Dolomite is harder than marble, but softer than granite, so they can still scratch if safety measures are not put in place. But if the right precautions are taken, like sealing and using cutting boards, dolomite is an excellent choice for kitchen countertops.
Dolomite is more prone to cracking than granite, for example. But, even so, it probably won’t happen, since dolomite is very resistant to wear and tear on daily activities.
Dolomite is very resistant to heat when compared to other materials. However, it is never advisable to put hot pans directly on any kind of countertop. The use of protective coasters is always recommended.
Yes. On the Mohs Scale, dolomite ranks higher than marble. This is due to the higher density of dolomite.
