When it comes to countertops selection; then there is always a debate going on between marble and granite. Both are naturally occurring stones that give your home a luxurious appeal and both have their share of advantages and disadvantages. However, granite countertops have an edge over marble countertops in many states. Read below to find out why granite countertops are a better choice than marble countertops.

The Process Of Coming Into Existence

Before you get to know the pros and cons of both the countertops, first you should know how both of them are made or created.

Marble is a metamorphic rock, which initially is in a state of limestone and is composed of dolomite and mainly calcium. Due to pressure and immense heat, it transforms into marble over time.

Granite on the other hand is an igneous rock and is formed by molten lava very deep under the earth’s surface by cooling down and then solidifies and crystallizes.

Appearance

Now that you know how both of the naturally occurring stones are formed let’s see how they both are in appearance. Remember, both of these are unique, versatile, and beautiful in their own form. You can judge any of them based on how they look because they both will increase the face value of your home and kitchen and look rich and classy.

Marble Countertops

Marble is usually available in light to medium colors ranging from blue, cream, gray, pink, green, and white. Some marble is also available in white and black colors. It mostly has veining throughout the slab with a mixture of quartz or serpentine. These minerals tend to give the shades in marble.

Granite Countertops

Granite on the other hand is mostly available in medium to dark shades and on close inspection, you will see spots like freckles or flecks and solid patterns with slight veining. The grainy appearance is made up of different minerals such as mica, quartz, silica, feldspar, and amphibole. The granite may have a mixture of colors such as red, orange, blue, green, pink, and brown.

One thing you should know is that no two slabs of granite or marble will be the same and patterns and designs of the slabs will be unique due to their natural occurrence. You can say which one is best in appearance as it is a matter of personal choice and both are unique in their way.

Now once you know how both marble and granite are formed and how they tend to look in appearance, let’s compare the two forms and know why granite countertops are better than marble countertops in most of their characteristics.

Durability

Natural stones are generally more durable and harder as compared to other materials such as wood, laminate, or steel. However, if you compare the durability of both granite and marble countertops, then granite is more durable than marble countertops.

Marble is a softer material and granite is very hard and durable. Marble is more resistant to scratches and chips. So, you need to be careful that hard material should collide or come in contact with your marble countertop.

Also, use a chopping board while using your knife to cut vegetables and fruits, and don’t use a knife directly on your countertop to avoid cuts and scratches. Granite is tougher and resistant to chips and scratches and hence a safer and more durable option. Get them installed by granite installers Rockville to avoid damage to the slabs.

Porosity

There is a difference in both of their porosity levels.

Granite has very low levels of porosity while marble has higher porosity. This means that all sorts of liquids, juices, acids, or juices of any fruit or vegetable can easily lead to staining or seeping inside both materials.

Granite is also susceptible to stains and other liquids but it is far less when compared to marble countertops. So, if there is any accidental spill in your kitchen, you will need to wipe it up instantly to protect your countertop and avoid stains.

Both the countertops need to be sealed to protect them from getting damaged or stained. You will need to reseal your marble countertop every 6 months or so while granite needs to be sealed after every 2 years making it a more productive option.

Cost

If you compare the costs of both countertops in terms of designs, patterns, and colors then the cost per square foot of marble is approximately $40 to $100 while that of granite will be around $40 to $70.

The installation process and installation costs of both are almost the same as the process of requiring cutting and then fixing. This makes a granite marble top more cost-effective and beneficial in terms of durability and maintenance. But if you tend to go for exclusive or rare pieces of slabs of either of the two or go for unique colors, then the price would vary and wound up increasing as well.

Maintenance

When it comes to maintenance of the two countertops, high maintenance will cause an increase in the overall costs.

Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are low maintenance as they require a sealant every 2 years or so and you need not be worried about any sort of chip, crack, or scratches as it is a highly durable and tough material.

Marble Countertops

Marble countertops require a sealant every 6 months or annual basis, and can be easily chipped, scratched, or cracked because it is softer and are more prone to acidic juices, and other liquid spills which can lead to staining so you need to be extra careful so it is not damaged or stained.

Lifespan

Granite has a lifespan of about 100 years while the lifespan of marble is 30 to 40 years. So, granite will last you a whole lifetime and also your next generation without losing its versatility and elegance.

Cleaning And Care

Granite Countertops

Granite is generally low maintenance in terms of sealants and is more resistant to chips and scratches and if there are any chips then it can be cured using epoxy stone. You will just need a cleaning liquid and a soft, wet cloth to clean the spills and dirt easily.

You can also use vinegar to clean the surface of granite as it acts as an antibacterial cleaner and disinfectant to clean away the bacteria.

Marble Countertops

In case of a marble countertop, you will need to wipe away the spills immediately as the liquids can seep in due to it being more porous. Marble is more prone to acidic liquids such as citrus juices and acidic liquids and can lead to staining.

Also, it is less durable compared to granite and is not scratch-resistant. So, you will need to be extra careful in case of a marble countertop. The verdict is that marble countertops are more high maintenance as compared to granite countertops.

Conclusion

So now when you have compared both of the countertops and gotten to know the differences between the two of them, you finally have the answer; that is why granite countertops are better than marble countertops. This does not mean that marble should not be chosen, you might prefer the characteristics of a marble countertop and prefer it over a granite countertop.

In terms of cost, durability, maintenance, lifespan, and resistance to heat, stains, and scratches, granite countertops precede marble countertops. Anyone who agrees would like to get in touch with granite contractors Potomac for choosing granite slabs.