Basalt Countertops: Pros and Con

If you are in the market for a new countertop, you may be wondering if basalt is a good option. Basalt is a type of volcanic rock that is becoming increasingly popular as a countertop material.

Here are some advantages and disadvantages of basalt and countertops made with this sustainable material.

What are basalt surfaces and what are their features?

Basalt is a type of igneous rock that forms when lava cools and solidifies. The word “basalt” comes from the Latin word for “very hard stone”. It is a popular material for countertops due to its durability, sustainability, and stylish appearance.

Basalt countertops are cut from large blocks of stone and then prepared according to desires and needs. They are typically darker in color than other types of countertops. The natural dark color of basalt lends itself well to various design styles, from modern to traditional.

Basalt is extremely dense and strong (much like quartz) which is why it is a reliable option for kitchens. Basalt is also heat-resistant, making it a good choice for areas where hot pans or dishes will be placed.

How durable are basalt countertops?

Basalt is a type of volcanic rock that forms when lava cools rapidly at the Earth’s surface. That is why it is one of the densest and strongest stones available, which makes it an ideal material for countertops.

While basalt countertops are very tough, they are not completely indestructible. They can be scratched or chipped if they are damaged by a heavy object. But basalt is still much more resistant to scratches and chips than other countertop materials.

All in all, basalt slabs have a wide variety of applications and are a fantastic option due to their durability and visual appeal.

What are the pros of basalt countertops?

Basalt is a dense and durable stone that is often used in the construction of buildings and roads.

In recent years, basalt has become a popular material for home surfaces, especially countertops.

There are several advantages to using basalt for countertops. First, basalt is a very hard material, which makes it ideal for use in busy areas. Being a volcanic rock, it is tremendously resilient to cracks and minor scratches.

Additionally, basalt countertops are available in monochromatic colors from charcoal to black; they can create a cool, minimalistic look in the areas.

Finally, basalt countertops are made from large slabs of basalt stone an environmentally friendly material that can be recycled at the end of its lifespan.

Are there any disadvantages to choosing basalt countertops over another material type?

Every material has its benefits and drawbacks based on durability, color and practicality. While basalt countertops offer many benefits, there are also a few potential disadvantages to consider before making the final decision.

Basalt is a very hard stone that is resistant to damage and heat. However, this same quality can also be seen as a disadvantage. Because basalt is so hard, it can be difficult to cut and shape. As a result, basalt countertops are usually more expensive than other types of countertops.

In addition, basalt countertops shaped out of basalt slabs can be stained by oil and other liquids. Because this stone is porous, it stains easily, and when it stains, it leaves marks and spots which are not appealing.

Especially if this area is exposed to the oil from the cooking, it will definitely be visible and demand cleaning all the time. That is why is traditionally seen as flooring or even as an accent wall.

Also because of this feature, it is important to seal basalt countertops before use. Sealing will help to protect the surface from stains, but it may also make the countertop more difficult to clean.

Basalt countertops can be quite difficult to repair. If your countertop becomes damaged, it won’t be easy to fix without replacing the entire piece. Also, they are not immune to damage from acidic substances. Over time, exposure to acidic foods and beverages can dull the finish of basalt countertops.

For these reasons, some homeowners may prefer to opt for a product that looks like basalt, but offers even more features: black quartz. 

Black quartz, made by a reputable brand like Caesarstone, is a strong material, just like basalt, but it is also non-porous, easy to clean and stain resistant, which are very important features when it comes to usage in countertop surfaces. 

Who would be best suited for basalt countertops?

Basalt surfaces are chosen due to their unique, earthy appearance. However, basalt countertops aren’t the ideal choice for everyone.

Basalt counters can be quite expensive and they tend to require regular maintenance. If it is used in a space with children or guests who like to spend time in the kitchen, basalt may not be the right choice.

What to do to preserve basalt countertops as long as possible?

To clean basalt stone countertops, a damp cloth and warm water is ideal. Unless the provider specifically recommends it, salt water or chemicals shouldn’t be used since they can cause discoloration.

Harsh cleaners or abrasive scrub pads shouldn’t be used as these can damage the surface. Also, always wipe up spills immediately, as basalt is porous and can get stained easily.

It can be better to seal the countertops regularly to protect against damage, and if you scratch or chip the surface, it is best to have a professional repair it, as basalt is difficult to work with.

In addition, using stylish coasters and trivets would protect the surface from hot or acidic items.

Basalt Countertops: Pros and Cons — Conclusion

Basalt looks sophisticated with its dark color and texture; however, there are some drawbacks for certain homeowners and users. They can be difficult to maintain and are easier to damage than some other countertop materials. In this case, looking for other long-lasting materials, like quartz, may be better.

Homeowners should consider the basalt countertops’ pros and cons before making a final decision. Taking the time to learn about the pros and cons makes it much easier for homeowners to make an informed decision.