Marble vs Granite: Which One is the Best for Your Home?

If you're considering new countertops for your home, you may be wondering whether marble or granite would be the better choice. Both materials have their pros and cons and can add elegance and value to your home, so it's important to consider your needs before making a decision. In this post, we'll review the key differences between marble and granite so you can make the best-informed decision.

Marble or granite: differences and similarities

Here are the most notable differences between marble and granite.

Heat and scratch resistance

All natural stone, including marble and granite, is highly heat and scratch resistant and can handle temperatures up to around 176 degrees Celsius without needing a trivet. However, it's important to take caution when using hot pots and pans in the kitchen or hot hair tools in the bathroom since marble is still a porous stone and can be susceptible to liquids. To ensure that liquids do not seep into the stone, make sure to seal it at least once a year. Additionally, take care to avoid contact with acidic foods and liquids, as these can etch the marble.

Porosity

Granite is a natural stone material that is highly porous and vulnerable to water, oil, and other liquids. It needs to be sealed and regularly resealed to protect against liquid seepage. Marble, on the other hand, is much more resistant to porosity problems. Its cool, smooth texture allows it to easily repel the harshest of spills, from juice to oil to tomatoes, coffee, and more.

Cleaning and maintenance

Follow these steps to ensure proper cleaning and maintenance of marble and granite:

1. Use a gentle cleaner. For both granite and marble, the key to keeping them clean is to use a gentle cleaner like vinegar. A countertop cleaner that is safe for use around food can also be used. Avoid harsh chemicals as they could damage the stone.
2. Polishing and resealing. Granite should be resealed once a year, and marble should be resealed every six months or sooner if the surface is heavily used. Both granite and marble can be buffed to give them a polished finish.
3. Repair and professional help. Minor scratches and chips in granite and marble can be repaired with stone epoxy. Larger cracks may need professional help.
4. Routine maintenance. Perform routine maintenance to keep your countertops and natural stone looking like new. This includes all the points mentioned before: buffing and sealing, repairs, as well as cleaning with the appropriate cleaners.

Uses

Marble is a metamorphic rock that is composed mainly of calcite, a form of calcium carbonate, and other minerals. It is highly durable and can be polished to a beautiful shine. Granite, on the other hand, is an igneous rock that is formed from molten magma and is composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, mica, and other minerals. Granite is also very durable and can be polished to a glossy finish.

Both marble and granite are commonly used in building and construction, typically for flooring, countertops, and other surfaces. Marble can also be used in sculpture and furniture making, while granite can also be used in construction projects, such as curbing and paving. Both natural stones can also be used in artistic applications, such as painting, mosaics, and sculpture.

Conclusions

Based on the references provided, there are a few main conclusions when comparing marble and granite. Firstly, marble is a softer, more porous stone that is known for its elegant, vein-like patterning and comes in various colours. Granite, on the other hand, is a harder, more durable stone that is typically a darker grey or black and has a uniform look.

Both types of stone can be used for countertops, kitchen islands, and backsplashes, but granite may be the better option for high-traffic areas or kitchens that receive a lot of wear and tear. Additionally, granite is more heat-resistant than marble and is easier to clean and maintain.

Ultimately, both marble and granite can be great options for countertops, but the best choice will depend on individual preference, the available budget, and the kitchen's intended use.

Discover the Cosentino brands that use these materials

If you want to discover what marble, granite, and natural stone can do for your kitchen, head on to Cosentino's kitchen countertops catalogue. We have a wide selection of beautiful and resistant materials for every home and every need.

Don't also hesitate to have a look at the unique design of SCALEA, a superior natural stone with the highest standards of excellence in more than 200 colours that can be perfect for your countertop, flooring, cladding, and furniture.

Our team of experts works tirelessly to find the most genuine natural stones in the world. Request a quote so they can guide you today.