Marble is a metamorphic stone, which is formed by the recrystallization of carbon. When the limestone, which is present in the earth’s crust, gets subjected to intense pressure due to tectonic shifts, marble is formed. Granite, on the other hand, is an igneous rock, which is composed of compressed quartz, feldspar, mica, and other materials. Although granite is relatively stringer than marble, both of them are considered as suitable materials for kitchen countertops.
If you can’t make up your mind between quality granite and marble countertops and wondering which of them will be suitable for your kitchen countertop, you have come to the right place. In this post, we will delineate the pros and cons of each material to help you make the right choice.
Appearance and feel
Both of them look beautiful as countertops. But as granite consists of a variety of particles, it gives out different hues like pink, green, blue, red, and orange, depending on the quantity of the materials. These occur in medium to darker shades, resulting in an attractive countertop design. Marble doesn’t differ much in appearance and gives out a gray-blue or a gray-pink hue with lighter or darker veins that run through the slab. If appearance is a determining factor for your choice, you should take a closer look at the different types of granite and marble slabs and pick the one that suits your kitchen interiors the best.
Strength and durability
Granite is always harder and more resistant than marble, although both of them are quite durable. However, granite resists chips and scratches better than the marble countertops. To make them durable, you have to apply sealants on them once in every year, as both the stones are porous. Without a seal, the liquid may penetrate through the slab and cause damage. Marble is more susceptible to damage by acidic foods and liquid, so they require frequent cleaning after coming in contact with such items.
Maintenance requirements
According to many experts, granite requires lesser maintenance than marble. When compared to other materials like quartz, glass, and ceramic, the maintenance requirements are moderate, while marble needs high maintenance to increase its functionality and durability. You need to keep it sealed properly and avoid contact with acidic substances, and if there is a contact, you should clean the surface immediately.
Wrapping it up
According to the aforementioned observations, it’s quite evident that granite is in some way superior to the marble countertops. However, marble is far more fashionable and sophisticated than granite, so you should choose the one that meets your specific needs and preferences. Both are durable and quite resistant to damage, and both have a history of exceptional performance through the years of their existence. At the end of the day, it’s your choice, so make sure you choose the best one!
