Lava Stone vs. Granite for Countertops - What is The Difference?

Lava stone countertops offer superior heat resistance and unique porous textures compared to the dense, scratch-resistant surface of granite. Granite boasts greater durability and minimal maintenance, making it ideal for heavy-use kitchen environments.

Table of Comparison

Introduction to Lava Stone and Granite Countertops

Lava stone countertops, also known as basalt countertops, are formed from cooled volcanic lava, offering natural durability, heat resistance, and a unique, porous texture that adds aesthetic appeal to kitchens. Granite countertops, composed of crystallized igneous rock, provide exceptional hardness, scratch resistance, and a wide range of color patterns derived from mineral variations like quartz, feldspar, and mica. Both materials are favored for their strength and natural beauty, but lava stone stands out for its volcanic origins and thermal properties, while granite is prized for its classic appearance and versatility in design.

Material Composition and Characteristics

Lava stone countertops are composed primarily of volcanic basalt, offering exceptional heat resistance, durability, and a naturally porous surface that requires sealing to prevent stains. Granite is an igneous rock made of quartz, feldspar, and mica, known for its hardness, resistance to scratches, and varied color patterns formed from mineral impurities. Both materials are highly durable, but granite tends to be less porous and easier to maintain compared to lava stone.

Aesthetic Appeal: Color and Texture Comparison

Lava stone countertops offer a unique, volcanic-inspired texture with deep black or dark gray hues, often featuring small mineral veins that provide a natural, rugged aesthetic. Granite countertops showcase a wide spectrum of colors, from soft neutrals to vibrant reds and greens, with distinct granular patterns and natural veining that create a polished and elegant appearance. Both materials provide durability, but the choice between Lava stone's bold, matte finish and Granite's glossy, speckled surface ultimately depends on desired color vibrancy and textural depth.

Durability and Scratch Resistance

Lava stone countertops exhibit exceptional durability due to their volcanic origin, offering high resistance to heat and impact, making them ideal for heavy-use kitchens. Granite counters are also highly durable, with strong resistance to scratches and chips, but may require periodic sealing to maintain their resilience. Both materials provide robust scratch resistance; however, lava stone's natural density often results in superior performance against everyday wear.

Heat and Stain Resistance

Lava stone countertops offer exceptional heat resistance, withstanding temperatures up to 1,200degF without damage, making them ideal for hot pots and pans. Granite also provides strong heat resistance, though it typically tolerates temperatures up to around 600degF before risk of thermal shock. In terms of stain resistance, lava stone's natural porous texture requires sealing to prevent absorption of oils and liquids, while granite's dense composition offers better inherent resistance but similarly benefits from periodic sealing to maintain its durability.

Maintenance and Cleaning Requirements

Lava stone countertops require minimal maintenance due to their natural resistance to heat, stains, and scratches, and they clean easily with mild soap and water. Granite countertops demand periodic sealing to protect against stains and moisture, as their porous surface can absorb liquids if not properly maintained. Both materials benefit from avoiding abrasive cleaners to preserve their polished finishes and ensure long-lasting durability.

Installation Process and Complexity

Lava stone countertops require precise handling due to their natural porosity and brittleness, often necessitating specialized adhesives and sealants during installation to prevent damage and ensure durability. Granite countertops involve cutting and polishing heavy slabs, demanding professional-grade tools and expertise to handle their weight and hardness while ensuring a precise fit within kitchen layouts. Both materials require skilled installers, but granite's established installation techniques make it slightly less complex compared to the more delicate process of working with lava stone.

Cost Comparison: Lava Stone vs Granite

Lava stone countertops typically cost between $50 and $100 per square foot, making them a moderately priced option compared to granite, which ranges from $40 to $200 per square foot depending on quality and origin. Installation expenses for both materials are similar, averaging around $35 to $45 per hour, but granite's higher variability in price often reflects its broader selection and prestige. Homeowners choosing between lava stone and granite should consider that lava stone offers a unique texture and durability at a consistent mid-range price point, while granite offers more diversity in color and pattern with a wider cost spectrum.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Lava stone countertops offer a highly sustainable option due to their natural volcanic origin and minimal processing requirements, resulting in lower carbon emissions compared to granite extraction and fabrication. Granite quarrying often involves significant environmental disruption, including habitat destruction and high energy consumption, which impacts its overall sustainability profile. Choosing lava stone not only supports reduced environmental impact but also promotes the use of renewable natural resources in kitchen design.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Countertop

Lava stone offers exceptional heat resistance and unique porous textures that add an artisanal touch to countertops, while granite provides superior durability and a broad range of natural patterns ideal for high-traffic kitchens. Choosing the right material depends on factors like maintenance preferences, with granite requiring sealing less frequently compared to the more porous lava stone. Consider your kitchen's style, usage level, and desired longevity to select between lava stone's aesthetic uniqueness and granite's proven resilience for your countertop.