It’s only fitting to compare the two, since they have a lot in common. Your choice may come down to looks, such as the available colour options or patterns. You might also consider the cost of the slab that will form your countertop, or its country of origin. Your decision might be influenced by practical considerations such as maintenance needs, your family’s habits, or even your cooking style. Some homeowners have a vision of what sort of kitchen counters can be found in an “ideal” kitchen, and nothing else will do. Whichever you choose, we want you to have plenty of information so you can be confident in your decision!
Marble and granite countertops are both natural stones which are mined from the earth. If you remember some details from your high school or college geology class, you can put that knowledge to use when comparing the two:
• Marble is a metamorphic rock — it is formed when limestone is subjected to intense pressure and heat. The calcite in limestone has been recrystallized and its texture has changed. Other minerals present in the rock give marble its colour variations and veining.
• Granite is an igneous rock — it is formed when magma cools slowly underground. In this process, individual crystals of various minerals develop, such as quartz, feldspar, and mica. These crystals give granite its hardness and characteristic depth and sparkle.
Marble colours tend to be subdued white, grey, or pale beige, although shades of green or blue are also available. The patterns range from subtle veining to bold stripes. The most common marble colour is white with grey or beige veining. Different types of marble, such as Carrara, Calacatta, or Crema Marfil range in price and availability. Each marble slab is unique, which is one of the reasons natural stone is so highly treasured.
Countertops are available in a wider range of colors and patterns than marble. The various crystals and mineral composition lend granite its characteristic colour variation, and it can be found in shades of orange, red, pink, grey, brown, and even blue and green. Like marble, each granite slab is unique — and since granite patterns tend to be bolder, homeowners should work with their supplier to select the exact slab they want in their kitchen or bathroom.
Customizing your kitchen countertop with an edge profile is a popular option, though it does add extra expense. Both granite and marble can be given custom countertop edges such as beveled, rounded, ogee, and more. The finish you choose can also express your unique sense of style. Polished is the most common finish, but the matte look created by a brushed or leathered finish is growing in popularity, especially for marble.
Marble and granite countertops are sourced from all over the world. Your personal preference may influence the country of origin you prefer for your countertop. Although marble traditionally comes from Italy, today it may also be mined in Spain, Greece, Turkey, Egypt, and China. Granite originates from Brazil, Canada, India, and China. Typically, the farther your countertop needs to be shipped, the higher the cost, although this is not always the case.
Whether you plan to install your countertop in the kitchen or bathroom, durability is important. The kitchen, especially, can be used for many things besides cooking, such as kids’ school projects. Granite has the edge over marble here, because marble is a softer material more prone to staining and etching. Granite countertops are not indestructible, though; it is still prone to chipping and scratching if used improperly.
As with all types of natural stone, granite and marble need to be sealed regularly to maintain their resistance to water and other liquids. Lighter colours may need sealing more frequently than darker ones. Significant damage can be repaired, and in some cases, you may be able to do the job yourself using a repair kit from the hardware store. Large repairs may need professional service. Because of the patterning of a granite slab, repairs may be less visible on granite than on marble.
You might also wish to compare marble or granite vs. quartz, which can mimic both materials while needing significantly less maintenance. For example, quartz countertops never need sealing.
When properly sealed and maintained, both granite and marble can last for years — even decades. While marble is best cleaned using products designed specifically for marble and other natural stone, granite may be washed with any mild soap. For both types of countertop, make sure spills are wiped up right away and use protective pads, cutting boards, and trays to protect the counter from acidic, dark-coloured, or oily liquids.Both marble and granite countertops have devoted fans, including homeowners who have already made up their minds and will settle for nothing else. If you’re still trying to decide, however, be assured that both are excellent choices for many of the same reasons: durability, return on investment, and beauty just to name a few.
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