Granite vs Marble Countertops: Which is Best for You?

Making a decision on what countertops to choose for your home can be difficult. Do you want something that is classic and timeless, like marble? Or do you want something more modern and unique, like granite? Both of these have their pros and cons, so it can be tough to decide which one is better. In this blog post, we will compare granite vs marble countertops so it can help you decide which is the best fit for your needs.

Where Did Granite and Marble Come From?

Granite is an igneous rock that is made from cooled lava or magma. During the process of heating and slow cooling, granite starts to form as an extremely hard material. This makes it the perfect material to use for countertops because it is very durable and long-lasting.

Marble, on the other hand, is a metamorphic rock. This means that it was once another type of rock (usually limestone) that has been changed by heat and pressure. Marble is also very durable, but it mainly consists of calcium carbonate, which is a softer material.

Head-to-Head Comparison

To help you make a decision on which countertop to choose, let’s do a head-to-head comparison of granite vs marble.

Appearance

Both of these natural stone materials have a slightly similar appearance. They both have a smooth texture and can come in a variety of colors. However, granite countertops typically have a more grainy appearance, while marble has a veining that runs throughout the stone.

When it comes to color, granite countertops have color variations that generally appear as flecking. While the color variations of a marble resemble colorful veins that swirl through the stone.

Hardness and Durability

As we mentioned before, both marble and granite are very durable. They are both heat-resistant and scratch-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about putting hot pots on them or cutting food directly on the counter.

However, granite is a harder material, so it is more resistant to scratches and chips. Marble is still a strong material, but because it is slightly softer, it is more susceptible to damage.

It’s also good to note that both of these natural stones are porous, so they should be sealed to prevent staining. If they are not properly sealed, they can absorb liquids and stains, which can be difficult to remove.

Maintenance

As mentioned above, both granite and marble need to be sealed to prevent staining and damage. However, granite requires a little more low maintenance. It only needs to be sealed once a year to keep it in good condition. Marble, on the other hand, needs to be regularly protected with a sealant that’s applied every few months.

Minor scratches or even small chips can also be easily repaired on granite. With marble, these blemishes are more difficult to fix and usually require the help of a professional.

For cleaning, a properly sealed granite countertop can be cleaned with plain soap and water. You can also use a mild cleaner or granite polish. With marble, you need to be careful with what cleaners you use because some chemicals can damage the stone. It’s best to stick with a pH-neutral cleaner or marble polish.

Cost

The cost of these stone countertops can vary depending on the quality, type, and where you purchase them. However, granite counters are typically a little lower in cost than marble. Usually, granite begins at about $75 per square foot installed, while marble starts at close to $100 per square foot installed.

The Verdict

So, which is better? Well, it honestly depends on your needs and preferences. If you are looking for a lower-maintenance countertop with a more natural appearance, then granite might be the best choice for you. But if you are looking for a luxurious countertop with a classic look, then marble might be a better option.

There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing between granite and marble countertops. It’s all about finding the right material for your home that will fit your lifestyle and budget. It’s also important to work with a professional who can help you choose the right countertop and install it properly.