When it comes to countertops, two of the most popular types of countertops are granite and marble. Often times, when people come into our showroom to find new countertop for their home or business, they tend to gravitate to the marble and granite.
When this happens, we often field the same questions: which is better, granite or marble? And, what are the main differences between the two?
In this article, we break down some of the differences and similarities between marble and granite countertops and share some things people should keep in mind when they are deciding between the two.
Granite and Marble: What are they made of?
First, let’s start off with what goes into forming a granite or marble slab. Both are natural stones but are comprised of different materials.
Granite is an igneous or metamorphic stone, and it is usually made up of silica, feldspar, mica, and quartz. Granite slabs tend to have a grainy appearance, and the surface can feature veiny features, patches of colour, or it can have a solid colour. Granite slabs also come in a variety of colours.
Marble, on the other hand, is either metamorphic or sedimentary, and it is primarily made up of calcite. Like granite, marble surfaces can have veiny features, but its surface tends to be smoother than granite. When it comes to colour, marble usually varies between light and dark, but you can find some marble slabs that deviate from either light or dark hues.
The Durability of Marble and Granite
Durability is a major concern for people looking to install a new countertop. Most people want to be confident that their new countertop will last a long time and will be able to withstand some elements.
As we mentioned before, marble is made up of calcite. This is important to know because calcite is a mineral that is very soft and absorbent. This means that marble is more likely to absorb stains and etch or lose its finish. This means that marble requires regular maintenance (but more on that later).
The durability of granite, on the other hand, can vary due to the type of rock it is made of. Granite that is made of igneous stone is non-absorbent, doesn’t require sealing and does not easily scratch or stain. Conversely, light coloured granite slabs are usually made from metamorphic stones, which makes these granite slabs more susceptible to scratches, etching and staining.
Marble and Granite Maintenance
For the most part, granite is easier to maintain. The majority of granite slabs should be sealed after it has been installed. To avoid stains, it is a good idea to get into the habit of wiping up spills as soon as they happen. You should also purchase a PH-neutral cleanser in order to prevent etching and sustain the finish.
When it comes to marble, it is best to seal it regularly, but even with the sealer, a marble countertop can still stain more easily. Like granite, it is best to clean up spills as soon as possible, and it should be cleaned with a PH-cleanser. Also, you must avoid putting any acid things (ie. lemon juice, tomato sauce) on your marble countertop.
Both granite and marble slabs look great and would make an amazing addition to any residential or commercial space. With the information in this article, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a stone slab, which will help you find the perfect product for you.
If you want to learn more about granite and marble countertops, then we encourage you to call us at (416) 663-1889 or visit our showroom, which is located at 300 Norfinch Dr. North York, ON M3N 1Y4.