Which finish is best for modern kitchen design?

The choice depends on style preference; polished countertops offer a sleek, contemporary look while honed finishes provide a more understated, natural appearance.

What is the best material for bathroom vanity countertops?

Quartz is one of the best materials for bathroom vanity countertops due to its durability and water resistance.

What are integrated stone sinks?

Integrated stone sinks are made from the same slab as the vanity countertop, offering a seamless and modern look.

Is marble good for a bathroom vanity top?

Marble can work beautifully in bathrooms, especially low-traffic areas, but requires more maintenance than quartz or granite.

What is the standard countertop thickness?

The standard countertop thickness for most materials is 3cm (approximately 1.25 inches), offering durability and a high-end look without the need for support reinforcements.

What’s the difference between 2cm and 3cm countertops?

2cm countertops are thinner, lighter, and often require support underneath. 3cm options are thicker, more durable, and preferred for a premium, seamless look.

Is a mitered edge thicker?

Yes. Mitered edges create the illusion of extra-thick countertops by wrapping the edge with a seamless vertical piece of stone. It’s ideal for modern and waterfall edge designs.

What is the best countertop for outdoor kitchens?

Porcelain, granite, and Dekton are top choices due to their heat, scratch, and UV resistance. These materials hold up well in outdoor environments year-round.

Can quartz countertops be used outdoors?

Quartz is not ideal for outdoor use, as prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to discoloration and damage over time.

Is porcelain a good choice for outdoor kitchens?

Yes. Porcelain is highly UV-resistant, non-porous, and can handle extreme heat, making it perfect for outdoor countertops.

Countertops

Oct 10 2025

Waterfall Countertops 2025: Bold Designs for Modern Kitchens

Waterfall countertops are making a bold comeback in 2025 kitchen design, merging sleek aesthetics with high-end luxury. As homeowners continue to embrace modern and minimalist styles, this trend has surged in popularity. Whether you’re remodeling a contemporary space or building your dream kitchen, this guide explores everything you need to know—from materials and pros & cons to expert styling tips.

What Are Waterfall Countertops?

Unlike traditional countertops that end at the edge of the cabinet, waterfall countertops continue vertically down the sides, forming a continuous “waterfall” effect. As a result, the surface flows smoothly from top to bottom, creating a striking and seamless finish. The result is a sophisticated, elegant look often used in kitchen islands, peninsulas, and even bathroom vanities.

Waterfall countertops 2025 with white quartz island and wood base — Waterfall quartz countertop in a modern kitchen island design

Why Waterfall Countertops Are Trending in 2025

Waterfall countertops have become a design focal point in modern homes. This is largely because they combine form and function in a unique way. Below are a few reasons why they’re dominating kitchen trends in 2025:

Modern Minimalism: Clean lines and continuous surfaces complement today’s minimalist kitchen styles.
Luxury Appeal: Waterfall designs often feature high-end materials like quartz or marble, elevating perceived home value.
Durability + Protection: The vertical slab adds protection against scuffs and wear on cabinet sides.
Showcase Slabs: Perfect for dramatic veining in quartz or stone slabs that deserve to be a focal point.

Moreover, this trend aligns well with open-concept living spaces, where visual continuity is key. Learn more about modern countertop trends in our 2025 guide.

Best Materials for Waterfall Countertops

Choosing the right material is key to achieving both beauty and function. Below are the top material options to consider:

Quartz

Engineered quartz is the most popular option due to its durability, non-porous surface, and wide color availability. In addition, it’s perfect for waterfall applications thanks to its seamless appearance and low maintenance. Learn more about quartz as a waterfall material.

Also, check out Caesarstone’s guide to the waterfall countertop trend for real examples and design tips from a top manufacturer.

Marble

While marble offers timeless beauty, it is also porous and more prone to scratching and staining. Therefore, it’s best for low-traffic kitchens or spaces where aesthetics take priority over durability.

Granite

Granite works well for waterfall designs, especially if you’re going for a natural stone look. Furthermore, it’s highly durable and heat-resistant, making it ideal for active kitchens.

Porcelain

Porcelain slabs are becoming a go-to for ultra-modern designs. Not only are they lightweight and strong, but they also resist wear and tear exceptionally well.

Pros and Cons of Waterfall Countertops

✔️ Pros

Elegant, high-end appearance
Protects cabinetry sides from wear and spills
Highlights beautiful veining and patterns
Pairs well with open-concept layouts

❌ Cons

Higher material and fabrication cost
Less flexibility with storage (cabinet sides hidden)
Requires precise installation for slab alignment

While the pros far outweigh the cons for most homeowners, it’s essential to factor in your budget and kitchen layout before committing to this trend.

Where to Use Waterfall Countertops

Waterfall edges are versatile and can elevate several parts of your home. Here are a few popular placements:

Kitchen Islands: The most common application—creates a bold centerpiece that draws attention.
Bathroom Vanities: Adds a touch of luxury to upscale bathrooms and powder rooms.
Bar Tops and Dining Areas: Helps to unify the kitchen and entertainment space with a clean visual flow.

Ultimately, your layout and lifestyle will determine the best placement. However, most homeowners opt for a kitchen island waterfall edge first.

Design Tips for a Stunning Waterfall Countertop

Want to make your waterfall countertop truly stand out? Consider these expert-approved design tips:

Use Bookmatched Slabs: Align veining patterns for a dramatic, seamless look.
Contrast with Cabinets: Pair white quartz with dark cabinets or vice versa for a high-impact design.
Pair with Matching Backsplash: This unifies the space and makes the waterfall feature feel intentional.
Choose the Right Edge Style: See our guide to edge styles for modern kitchens.
Coordinate with Cabinets: Explore ideas for countertop and cabinet combinations that work.

In addition, don’t overlook lighting. Under-cabinet or toe-kick lighting can highlight the waterfall edge and add dimension at night.

How Much Do Waterfall Countertops Cost?

Expect to pay 20% to 50% more than a standard countertop installation. This is due to extra slab material, mitered edging, and more complex fabrication labor. On average, waterfall quartz countertops cost between $85–$150 per square foot, depending on the slab style and level of customization.

However, many homeowners see it as a worthwhile investment given the long-term aesthetic and resale value.

Maintenance & Cleaning Tips

Maintaining your waterfall countertop is easy—especially when using quartz or porcelain. Simply wipe with a mild soap and water solution regularly. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads, which can damage the finish over time.

For long-term care, review our full countertop maintenance guide.

Final Thoughts: Is a Waterfall Countertop Right for You?

If you’re planning a kitchen upgrade, waterfall countertops 2025 are one of the best statement features to consider for style, luxury, and value. It’s functional, stunning, and adds long-term value—especially when using durable materials like quartz.

Therefore, if you’re after sleek design and lasting impact, this trend is worth every penny.

FAQs About Waterfall Countertops

Are waterfall countertops going out of style?

Not at all. In fact, they’re gaining momentum in 2025 due to the rise of minimalist and luxury kitchen design trends.

What is the best material for a waterfall countertop?

Quartz is ideal because it’s durable, non-porous, and available in large slabs perfect for mitered edges and seamless designs.

Do waterfall countertops increase home value?

Yes — especially when installed in high-traffic, visible areas like kitchen islands. They signal custom work and design investment.

Can you install waterfall countertops on existing cabinets?

Yes, but it requires measuring, fabricating new slabs, and ensuring structural support on the sides for the vertical piece.

Apr 09 2025

Polished vs Honed Countertops: Which Finish Is Right for Your Home?

When choosing a countertop finish, the decision between polished vs honed countertops can significantly influence both the look and maintenance of your kitchen or bathroom. In this guide, we explore the differences between these popular finishes to help you make an informed choice.

What Are Countertop Finishes?

Countertop finishes determine the surface texture and reflectivity of your stone, quartz, or engineered slab. The two most common finishes are:

Polished Countertops

A polished finish gives countertops a high-gloss, mirror-like surface. This finish enhances the natural colors and patterns of the material, offering a luxurious, contemporary look. However, polished surfaces can reflect light and show fingerprints or smudges more readily.

Pros: Enhances color and pattern; easy to wipe clean
Cons: Can show fingerprints; sometimes too reflective for certain design styles
Works exceptionally well with quartz countertops and granite countertops.

Honed Countertops

A honed finish is matte and smooth with little to no shine. It provides a more natural, understated look and tends to hide minor scratches better than polished surfaces. Honed countertops are ideal for a warm, casual, or traditional aesthetic.

Pros: Subtle and natural appearance; hides scratches and imperfections
Cons: May require more upkeep to maintain a consistent look
Often selected for high-traffic areas where durability is a must; works well with materials like marble countertops.

Polished vs Honed: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Polished	Honed
Aesthetics	High-gloss and reflective	Matte and subtle
Maintenance	Easy to clean, but shows fingerprints	Hides minor scratches better
Style Suitability	Modern, high-end designs	Traditional, natural looks
Light Reflection	Reflects light, brightening space	Absorbs light, offering a softer look

Which Finish Is Right for You?

Your choice between polished and honed countertops depends on your aesthetic goals and practical needs:

If you prefer a modern, sleek look and don’t mind a bit of extra cleaning, a polished finish is ideal.
If you desire a more natural, understated appearance with less glare and better disguise for minor imperfections, go with a honed finish.

Countertop Care and Maintenance

Regardless of your chosen finish, proper care is essential. For cleaning tips and maintenance routines, check out our maintenance guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between polished and honed countertops?

Polished countertops have a glossy, mirror-like surface that enhances color and pattern. Honed countertops have a matte finish that offers a more natural look with less reflection.

Which countertop finish is easier to maintain?

Polished surfaces are typically easier to clean but may show smudges or fingerprints. Honed finishes are better at hiding minor scratches and everyday wear, though they may need more frequent sealing depending on the material.

Which finish is better for modern kitchens?

Polished countertops are ideal for sleek, contemporary kitchen designs. Honed finishes suit more natural, rustic, or traditional aesthetics.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right countertop finish can dramatically influence the overall design and functionality of your space. Whether you opt for the bright, reflective look of a polished finish or the subtle elegance of a honed surface, make sure your choice aligns with your lifestyle and design vision.

Need expert advice? Contact us or get a free estimate today to explore samples and find the perfect finish for your home.

https://stonevalleyco.com/polished-vs-honed-countertops/

Apr 07 2025

Bathroom Vanity Countertops: Best Materials for 2025 Bathrooms

When it comes to choosing bathroom vanity countertops in 2025, the right surface can elevate your design and simplify daily use. From luxury marble to durable quartz and eco-friendly options, the countertop you choose should match both your style and your lifestyle.

This guide covers the best materials for bathroom vanities, trending designs, and expert recommendations to help you make a smart, lasting investment.

Top Bathroom Vanity Countertop Materials

Quartz: Non-porous, stain-resistant, and ideal for steamy bathrooms. Minimal maintenance and available in many styles.
Granite: Durable and natural. With sealing, granite holds up well in bathrooms and adds real stone texture.
Marble: Elegant and timeless. Best for powder rooms or low-traffic baths due to its porous nature.
Eco-friendly: Bamboo, recycled glass, and sustainable composites are growing in popularity for green bathroom renovations.

Integrated Stone Sinks: Seamless Function & Style

Integrated stone sinks — where the basin is fabricated from the same material as the vanity countertop — are one of 2025’s hottest bathroom design trends.

Modern, seamless look
No lip or caulking = easier to clean
Perfect for quartz, granite, and solid surface vanities

Below is one of our recent projects showing a full-length double integrated sink made from stone — ideal for high-end custom vanities.

Bathroom Design Trends in 2025

According to our 2025 Countertop Trends Report, the most requested vanity upgrades include:

Neutral quartz with soft veining
Double vanities with dual sinks
Full-height backsplash in matching stone
Matte finishes with integrated sinks

Maintaining Your Vanity Countertop

Bathroom vanity countertops need to stand up to water, toothpaste, cosmetics, and daily wear. Learn how to care for your stone with our countertop maintenance guide.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re upgrading a powder room or designing a luxury ensuite, choosing the right bathroom vanity countertops is key to long-term beauty and performance. At Stone Valley, we help homeowners across Ontario find the perfect surface — from design to installation.

Use our fast quote tool or book a design consultation to explore samples and pricing options.

Apr 04 2025

Countertop Thickness Guide: Standard, Mitered & Custom Options

Choosing the right countertop thickness isn’t just a design decision — it affects your budget, structural support, and overall aesthetic. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, upgrading a bathroom, or building an outdoor grill island, it pays to understand your options.

Standard Countertop Thickness

In most homes across Ontario, the standard thickness for stone countertops is:

3cm (1.25 inches): Ideal for granite, quartz, and quartzite. Offers maximum strength and doesn’t require plywood support underneath.
2cm (0.75 inches): Used more in vanities or modern designs. Lighter but may need additional support or build-up underneath.

Not sure which one to go with? Our post on Quartz Countertops covers more on thickness benefits and edge options.

When to Choose a Mitered Edge

If you’re after a **bold, modern look**, a mitered edge might be for you. A mitered edge gives the illusion of a thicker slab (up to 6cm or more) by wrapping the stone vertically at the edge. It’s especially popular for:

Waterfall kitchen islands
High-end bathroom vanities
Outdoor kitchens and bars

Explore more edge designs in our Countertop Edge Profile Guide.

How Material Affects Thickness

Each stone behaves differently depending on its density. Here’s what to expect:

Granite: Most stable at 3cm; naturally heavy and durable.
Quartz: Works well in 2cm or 3cm; more flexibility in design.
Porcelain & ultra-compact surfaces: Often thinner (12mm) but mitered to appear thicker.

Design Trends in Thickness (2025)

According to our 2025 Countertop Trends Report, we’re seeing more designers opt for:

Thicker mitered edges (5–6cm appearance)
Integrated backsplashes with the same slab
Mixed thickness in the same space (ex: thick island, slim perimeter)

Custom Thickness Options

Some homeowners want something in between or totally custom. We can create **build-ups, laminated edges, and layered installations** that give you the look you want without compromising structural integrity.

Need help choosing the best approach? We’ll walk you through it based on material, budget, and design vision.

Final Thoughts

The right countertop thickness comes down to **function, material, and style goals**. Whether you’re sticking with standard 3cm or going bold with a mitered waterfall edge, we’ll help you make the right call for your space.

Use our quick estimate tool or book a consultation to get expert advice and see full-size thickness samples in person.

Apr 01 2025

Best Countertops for Outdoor Kitchens in 2025: Heat & Weather-Proof Picks

Designing an outdoor kitchen in Ontario? Your countertop material choice can make or break the entire space. The best countertops for outdoor kitchens in 2025 must be durable, heat-resistant, UV-stable, and low maintenance.

At Stone Valley Countertops, we’ve installed outdoor surfaces that can handle Canadian seasons, summer heat, BBQ messes, and poolside parties without missing a beat.

What to Look for in Outdoor Countertops

UV Resistance: Sunlight can fade or yellow some materials over time.
Heat Resistance: High temperatures from grills or direct sun shouldn’t cause cracking or discoloration.
Non-Porous: Rain, spills, and stains must be easy to wipe clean.
Scratch Resistance: Outdoor prep areas should handle everyday wear and tear.

Top Outdoor Countertop Materials

1. Porcelain

Porcelain is rising fast as one of the best choices for outdoor kitchens. It’s non-porous, stain-resistant, UV-proof, and heat-resistant. Plus, it comes in styles that mimic marble, concrete, and wood.

2. Granite

A classic for outdoor use, granite is naturally hard, weather-resistant, and stunning. It requires periodic sealing, but its performance and beauty make it a top-tier choice.

3. Dekton

This ultra-compact surface is virtually bulletproof. Dekton is resistant to fire, UV, water, scratches, and stains, making it ideal for high-performance outdoor environments.

4. Quartzite

Quartzite is a natural stone that provides excellent durability and a high-end appearance. It’s better suited for outdoor use than engineered quartz due to its resistance to UV damage.

What to Avoid: Can You Use Quartz Outdoors?

While engineered quartz looks amazing indoors, it’s not recommended for outdoor kitchens. UV exposure can discolor and weaken quartz over time.

Design Trends for 2025 Outdoor Kitchens

In 2025, we’re seeing a surge in outdoor spaces that feel like indoor extensions. That includes:

Matching countertops with waterfall edges
Seamless slab cladding on outdoor bars or grill bases
Low-maintenance materials in neutral tones

Stone Valley’s Outdoor Recommendations

We recommend the following based on our real-world installs:

Porcelain: For the best blend of performance and design
Dekton: For maximum durability in harsh conditions
Granite: For a natural, timeless look with strength

See more of our work in the project gallery.

Ready to Build Your Outdoor Kitchen?

Let our experts guide you through the process. We’ve helped hundreds of Ontario homeowners design stunning outdoor kitchens that last through the seasons.

Get your free quote today and bring your outdoor space to life.