Granite vs. Marble Countertops

Kitchen and bathroom countertops add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home. Not only are they durable, but they also provide ample space for work and storage. They also work as a focal point or connecting point, where the wood cabinets meet the tiled wall.

The material you choose for your kitchen counter will largely depend on your budget and taste. Granite and marble are the most popular options for kitchen and bathroom countertops. If you’re unsure whether to choose granite or marble for your countertops, comparing the two can help you make an informed decision. Although both are natural stones, each has its own advantages and disadvantages that must be considered. Before deciding on the material, it is important to consider factors such as the degree of hardness, the ability to resist stains, durability, longevity and the lifestyle of your family.

Here are certain factors that can help you decide whether to choose a marble or granite countertop:

– Resistance to stains and scratches – Granite is a very hard and non-porous stone, which makes it highly resistant to scratches and stains. It is an ideal material for a kitchen countertop. You can cut things in a granite with a knife or blade, without scratching it. Granite has low porosity, so spilled liquids won’t leave stains after cleaning. Marble is a softer and more porous stone than granite, making it susceptible to scratches from sharp objects and stains from watery or oily liquids. You can apply a sealant to movable countertops that will act as a barrier against liquids, making them less likely to stain after spills.

– Cracking or chipping – Natural granite has a crystalline structure and can crack or chip when in contact with high-impact blows from a hard, sharp object. It is unlikely to chip or crack with normal kitchen use and routine daily use will not put too much stress on this durable and hard stone.
Natural marble is a softer material than granite, making it more prone to chipping and cracking when used frequently.

– Ease of maintenance – Both marble and granite countertops offer a luxurious and sophisticated look. Both are easy to clean and maintain. A granite countertop can be sealed to provide an extra layer of protection. Use a quality sealer to seal marble countertops, which will increase their lifespan by 10-15 years. For daily cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth.

– Heat and Chemical Damage – Granite is naturally resistant to heat, chemicals and other acidic substances. Marble is also resistant to heat, but you should avoid placing a hot pan directly on its surface.

Both granite and marble are excellent materials for kitchen and bathroom countertops. You should buy a hob only from an authorized store.