To people who are busy planning out the interiors to their new home, research is crucial. A lot of layout decisions and interior designing messes are ironed out once homeowners do their due diligence.
One of the more popular decisions homeowners find difficult to make is choosing between marble and granite kitchen countertops. That is because most people don’t even understand the difference between them.
Both marble and granite are often mistaken for one another. Of course, both materials are aesthetically-pleasing. They both also have qualities that make them a perfect choice as a countertop surface.
However, both never really have the same value. It’s all a matter of perspective, really, but they both have their own merits. That is why it is important to learn to tell how to tell the two together.
Difference
| Granite | Marble | |
| Durability | Durable | Less Durable |
| Resistant to acidic foods | Mostly | No |
| May be damaged by cleaning liquids | Yes, depending on ingredients. Use gentle dish soaps.
|
Yes, depending on ingredients. Use gentle dish soaps. |
| Scratch resistant | Mostly | No |
| Low maintenance | Yes, but clean up spills immediately and reseal once every two years. Lighter-colored granites, which are more porous, may require additional maintenance. | Less so than granite. Clean up spills immediately and reseal twice a year. |
Appearance
Marble is metamorphic or sedimentary in origin, with a smooth surface typically striated with veins of minerals. Some marble is quartz-based, while others are composed of serpentine, a greenish mineral. Commercial marble is typically available in variations of black and white.
Granite is metamorphic or igneous, made up of silica, mica, feldspar and quartz, generally with a packed, granular surface. Color varies from light to dark, presented in flecks, veins or solid patterns.
Keep in mind that appearance in both types of stone varies between slabs depending on its natural source and cut location.
Cost
When it comes to cost, the cost varies according to colour and appearance. Marble is slightly more expensive than granite. But high-end marble tends to be more expensive than equivalent high-end granite.
The Price actually depends on the quality of the stone, the complexity of the job, also the style of the cutting of tiles, and the installation is not a do it yourself project, but it requires a professional for the installation.
Hardness
Granite is harder than marble.
Stain Resistance
Moreover, granite is more stain resistance than marble.
Use
Marble is an ideal choice for use in quieter surfaces like powder rooms and bathrooms, while granite is a good choice for kitchen countertops, fireplaces, bar tops, bathrooms, etc.
Similarities
There are also many similarities between the two.
Both materials are hard, heavy, heat and scorch proof, and are available in a variety of colors and patterns.
Both are created in nature, bringing many natural variations in colors and patterns.
Both stones can be stained by intensely-colored foods, acidic or oily foods. This means you have to seal them regularly, usually just once a year.
Both are created through complex reactions in the earth, often taking millions of years to form. This is why it’s so hard to mimic their appearance with man-made material.
Both make beautiful countertops, backsplashes, wall coverings and floor coverings.
Both are unique stones that offer a high return on investment for any kitchen or bath project.
THE BEST OPTION FOR YOUR HOME
All two countertop materials, marble and granite, have their pros and cons, but all two will add value to your home. In the end, the countertop material you choose is a matter of personal preference.
