Builders in the Washington, D.C., area say that a majority of their clients now prefer engineered stone, also known as quartz, as the material for their countertops.
The Washington Post reports that homeowners are turning away from granite, which had been popular over the last decade.
Quartz is low maintenance, comes in several colors, and fits kitchens that have a modern design.
Harder and less porous than granite, quartz is more consistent in color, texture and pattern than natural stones. It is stain-resistant and does not require sealing like granite and marble to maintain its original appearance.