Kitchens and bathrooms are often the last rooms considered during a home remodeling project, but they are the rooms that provide the best return on your investment. There are reports that a kitchen or bath remodel can provide you with a more than 90 percent return on your investment. In addition, your kitchen and bath are used the most out of every room in your home. If your kitchen and baths are outdated, consider natural stone countertops as part of your renovation.

Granite countertops have been a popular option for many years. They are durable as well as resistant to stains, chipping and cracking. Granite is much harder than marble and is even heat resistant. It is possible to put a hot pan directly from the stove and sit it on a granite surface. This is also beneficial in bathrooms with the risk of straightening and curling irons that can be accidentally placed on the surface. Granite also resists stains as long as it is properly sealed. It is non-porous which makes it resistant to stains and bacteria growth. It is even possible to create a unique look in your kitchen or bath by installing granite flooring.

Another option for natural stone countertops is quartz, which are actually engineered stone countertops. These counters are created from over 90 percent crushed granite that has been mixed with resins and pigment to create the look of stone. Quartz is one of the hardest stones on Earth, so engineered stone countertops are much harder and more durable than other types of stone counters. They also do not require sealing so there is much less maintenance for engineered stone counters than with granite or marble.

If you want a rich, luxurious feel in your bathroom or kitchen, marble is the best choice. Whether you install marble flooring in a bathroom or a stunning marble counter in your kitchen, you will give the room a rich, classic appearance that will remind you of historic homes found throughout the world. Marble is softer than quartz or granite so it is easier to scratch. It is also porous, so if it may stain if acidic materials are left on the counter, such as red wine, coffee or tomato juice. Always wipe those substances up quickly to avoid staining. Like granite, marble must also be sealed regularly to protect it from damage.