Marble and Granite Countertops
The Difference Between Marble and Granite Countertops
When you find it difficult to choose between granite and marble for your kitchen, comparing the two has the potential of helping make a well-informed decision on which one to choose. While it is obvious that marble and granite are both natural stones, they have different qualities that set them apart. This natural stones differs in aesthetics elements, degree of hardness, ability to resist marring or staining, and overall durability and Longevity. It is important to take into account your family members and lifestyle before choosing a granite or marble countertop for your kitchen.
Resistance to Stain and Scratch
Natural granites are very hard and nonporous stones, which makes them super resistant to staining and scratching: this obviously makes it the best material for virtually any kitchen countertop. It is entirely possible to cut on granite with knife blade without doing any scratching damage to it. Also, because of the fact that natural granite has little porosity, spilled liquids in any form leave no stain or trace after they have been cleaned. On the other hand, marble is inherently a more porous and softer stone than granite, which makes it vulnerable to scratches from sharp tools like kitchen knives and stains from oily or watery liquids in the kitchen. However, applying a sealer to a marble countertop gives it a barrier that makes it less likely to stain after spills are wiped off it.
Chemical Damage or Heat
There is typically no marring effect when a hot pan is placed directly on a granite kitchen countertop. Marble also possesses this heat resistant feature, however, to avoid potential surface discoloration, it is advisable to place trivet underneath a hot pan. It is also important to note that liquids such as ketchup, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, alcohol, citric or acidic items can leave an etch mark on a marble countertop. The etching can appear as a dull and lackluster spot on the marble, which is irreversible and cannot be prevented against- even by a protective sealant. Meanwhile, granite countertop is innately resistant to acidic substances and chemicals.
Chipping and Cracking
Any hard surface, which includes natural granite with its crystalline structure, can possibly crack and chip when it comes in direct contact with any high-impact blow from a sharp or hard object. However, under ordinary kitchen use, a granite countertop is highly unlikely to chip and crack and daily use is not likely to overstress this durable and hard stone. Conversely, marble countertops are more prone to cracks and chips under frequent kitchen utilization because they are made of softer materials than granite.
Maintenance and Aesthetic Quality
Marble countertops set the design standard for creating a luxurious, upscale kitchen, while granite countertops also denote an elegant upscale sophistication. It is also possible to seal a granite countertop in other to provide an additional layer of protection for the naturally tough stone. Manufactures recommend that you seal the highly porous marble material. A quality sealant is expected to have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. To maintain both of this stones, you can wipe them down with a damp, clean cloth. You can also add a tad of soapy water to you damp rag to remove food residue. It is necessary to avoid ammonia, bleach and other harsh agents. With marble countertop, it is important to adequately dry the wet surface as you are cleaning.
Granite Countertop prices are a little bit lower than marble countertops. You can get granite around $75 per square foot installed. Meanwhile, marble start a lot closer to $1oo per square foot installed. The very best granite kitchen countertops can cost up to $175 per square foot installed while marble countertops can top $200. The complexity and style you choose will have an impact on the overall cost.
If you are ready to provide thorough maintenance in return for elegance and aesthetics of natural stones, then you can consider a granite or marble countertop. Either one will take you kitchen to a new level of luxurious living with the right maintenance.
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