Granite and marble countertops are both beautiful and durable choices for kitchens and bathrooms. At a casual glance, the two surfaces are very similar. What differentiates one from the other? Let’s find out.
The Science. Marble is a metamorphic rock, formed over time from limestone subjected to high temperatures and pressure. It’s a ‘calcareous” stone. Granite is an igneous rock, which means it was once melted deep within the earth. It falls into the ‘siliceous’ stone category.
The Appearance. Marble has beautiful veins of colors that look like swirls throughout the stone. It adds a touch of elegance to your space. Granite has a more freckled, speckled coloring, and gives a more natural look.
The “Porosity”. Marble is softer and more porous than granite, an important consideration. Because granite is harder, it’s also more resistant to scratching and chipping.
The Care and Cleaning. While both types of countertops are heat and spill resistant, it’s still best practice to use hot pads and clean up spills quickly. Marble is actually not quite so hard as granite, and it’s more sensitive to oils found in cosmetics and the acids found in foods like wine, lemons, and vinegar.
The Maintenance. Both granite and marble need to be sealed periodically. A good sealer will soak into the gaps, keeping spills from doing the same and discoloring or etching your countertops.
There is no countertop solution that fits everyone. Learn about all the kinds of surfaces available, and ask your friends and family what kind they like, and why. As you make your decision, there’s one thing that isn’t different – we at Southside are ready to help you create the kitchen or bath of your dreams. From start to finish – we’ve got you covered!
