Granite vs. Marble: Similarities and Differences Between these Countertop Materials
Granite or marble? That may be one of the main questions you have to answer as you’re planning a bathroom or kitchen renovation. It’s not the easiest decision, but here’s the good news: You just about can’t go wrong either way.
14 Differences and Similarities Between Granite and Marble
No doubt, both materials can create a beautiful, luxurious feel in your Arizona home. Beyond that, following are several other similarities and differences between granite and marble.
1. Marble is softer.
2. Marble is more porous.
3. Both are easy to keep clean on a basic, surface level. They both require sealants, as well as resealing about once a year.
Granite countertops may be more resistant to scratches, burns, and stains.
4. Because marble is more porous, it tends to stain easier than granite, as liquids can seep through. However, both are fairly stain-resistant.
5. Granite tends to be less expensive, but it varies depending on quality, brand, and other factors.
6. Typically, marble patterns consist of lines and streaks; granite countertops tend to have specks, which are actually minerals found underground.
7. Marble is more sensitive to acids, so you will want to avoid any highly acidic cleaning products if you have marble countertops. To be safe, you may want to avoid using such products on granite countertops as well. To clean either one on a daily basis, non-abrasive soap, water, and a microfiber cloth will do just fine.
8. Both are natural and originate in the Earth.
9. Granite is more resistant to scratches.
10. Both are available in many colors and styles, although marble is commonly black and/or white.
11. Some people believe marble adds a more luxurious feel to a home. As with everything else, that is based on perception, as well as the quality of the marble versus the granite option.
12. On average, marble is slightly heavier than granite.
13. Because marble is softer and more porous, over time you may see small indents, spots, bumps, or holes in the countertop. Some homeowners rather enjoy this warm, one-of-a-kind look, but you can have it professionally repaired if you choose.
14. Both materials require professional installation, as they can be extremely difficult to cut in order to fit the angles in your kitchen or bathroom.
Professional Installations for Bathroom and Kitchen Countertops
Clearly, it’s best to work with a kitchen designer and installer if you want granite or marble countertops in your home. Between the heavy lifting, required maintenance, and the tremendous number of options you have, it can be difficult to make the decisions and do the work on your own.
Contact our designers in Mesa, Arizona if you are interested in exploring kitchen and bathroom countertop materials.
