When choosing a countertop for your kitchen, the most popular choices available are Granite and Marble. While both granite and marble have similar features, granite is easier to maintain. Marble is available in different colours which makes it look attractive. It’s important that you make the right choice for your kitchen countertop.

Appearance

Granite is 100% natural stone and found deep within the earth’s surface. Granite is composed of hard minerals like Feldspar and Quartz. Marble is formed from sedimentary rocks (stones) underneath the earth. Originally, marble is from limestone and contains calcium carbonate.

Granite is available in different colours due to the different minerals and various shades that can suit your kitchen wall colour. Having a granite countertop can give your house a better look. On the other hand, marble is mostly a whitish, grey or cream coloured with lines running through it forming different design patterns.

Properties

Granite is known to be more durable and highly resistant to cracks and surface chip-offs. Granite countertops do not tend to lose colour due to daily activities. Granite countertops are resistant to heat, chemical, stains and scratches. The hardness of granite measures between 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale (used to measure minerals).

Marble is also a strong material but less durable, and can get stained and damaged quickly. Marble is less resistant to heat, acidic spills and stains on the surface. While stains can be removed, the colourful appearance of marble tends to become dull over a period of time. Marble hardness measures between 3 to 5 on the Mohs scale.

Maintenance

Granite is highly resistant to stains, though it requires a fresh coat of seal once in a year for a longer life. With marble, you may have to perform re-sealing at least twice every year. While minor damages can be easily fixed, any damage of a substantial size should be handled and fixed by professionals (applicable for both granite and marble).

Cost and Installation

Granite countertops are cheaper when compared to the marble ones. Granite costs between $40-$100 per square feet. Special and rare colour granite countertops cost higher when compared to the ordinary ones. Marble costs between $50-$150 per square feet.

Get a professional to install both granite and marble countertops as they are very heavy. It also involves precision and focus when cutting sinkholes.

Wrapping Up

While both stones are similar, the difference lies mainly on their appearance, maintenance, and cost. When making the choice of countertop for your kitchen, you can choose marble if you are more concerned about the colour and tone. If you are looking for something really solid and durable, you can choose the granite countertops. Granite countertops are also available in different colours and known for their strength and durability. Overall, the choice depends on how much aesthetic value the countertop can add to your house and the budget. Nevertheless, before making your choice, it is advisable that you talk with an expert to consult their opinion. Their experience will help you pick the best countertop for your kitchen.