Homeowners have many choices when it comes to building materials for kitchens, baths, outdoor spaces, bars, and other rooms in the house. There are many factors to consider when looking at countertop options, including your specific needs and personal design tastes, as well as characteristics like strength, maintenance, the price tag, and longevity. We’ve provided this comparison guide on granite versus marble to assist you as you’re making choices for your home renovation projects.
Granite vs. Marble
Granite Pros:
Granite is an ideal option for homeowners looking for strength and durability, with the timeless elegance of a natural building material. With proper cleaning and regular application of a suitable sealant, it can handle normal wear and tear, and is resistant to scratches and stains. Granite countertops are also highly resilient when exposed to high heat, so it’s suitable for installation near the cooktop or in a bathroom where hair appliances are used. While it’s a natural product, granite is available in a range of colors and textures. Every slab is unique, appealing to those seeking a high-end, individual look.
Granite Cons:
The uniqueness of granite that some find attractive may not suit the personal tastes of homeowners looking for a modern, contemporary look. Though granite is extremely strong, it’s also quite porous: Application of a sealant is necessary to protect against stains, etching, and bacteria. Plus, cost may be an issue for a renovation budget. Granite ranks at the top with other natural building materials. In some cases, due to the weight of the material, special structures must be placed to support granite surfaces.
Marble Pros:
If you’re looking for spectacular, sophisticated appeal, a marble countertop may be the right choice for you. It’s an igneous stone, meaning that it derives from solidified lava, so marble offers a stunning display of color – from classic neutrals to shades of rose, gold, gray, sage, and yellow. For applications where high heat will be present, marble is resistant and stands up to pots and pans. Many homeowners choose it for fireplace surrounds because it won’t discolor over time.
Marble Cons:
You may have concerns about installing marble due to its porous nature; it’s even more porous than granite and will absorb liquids, so oil, wine, juices, and acids will penetrate quickly. The stains can be difficult, if not impossible, to remove. There are sealants that can prevent liquids from absorbing, but it’s necessary to apply upon installation and every year or so. While marble is quite durable, it may not work well in busy kitchens where it can be scratched by knives or chipped by heavy pots.
Contact Michigan’s Leading Supplier of Granite and Marble
Our team of designers at Great Lakes Granite & Marble can help you as you compare granite and marble for projects involving countertops, sinks, and other household surfaces. Visit our showroom to see our huge selection of premium quality building materials for all your home renovation needs. You can also check out our countertop design gallery to see samples of our granite, marble, quartz, and other products, or give us a call to request a quote.