The chemical bodily properties that characterize the distinction between marble and granite additionally clarify using these two supplies within the design. Granite’s water absorption and weak acid resistance usually are not robust, and it’s primarily used to make counter tops.
A reasonably widespread controversy in inside design is certainly the selection between marble vs granite counter tops. We don’t suppose there’s a more sensible choice between these two supplies, nonetheless, past their geological and chemical variations, there are numerous features to think about on the subject of marble vs granite counter tops.
Concerning sturdiness, each supplies are extremely wear-resistant. Nonetheless, granite is tougher and fewer porous than marble, making it tougher to chop, warmth injury, and stain. Moreover, each supplies require common sealing, however marble surfaces require extra cautious cleansing than granite to keep away from damaging the porous stone.
Lastly, on the subject of appears, marble is unanimously thought-about probably the most versatile of the 2. Designers typically think about marble textures to be extra elegant, and the infinite selection that marble provides makes it simpler for this materials to mix with kinds which are very totally different from one another, from rustic and conventional to luxurious and ultra-modern areas.
I. Execs and Cons of Marble Counter tops
Execs
For a contact of historical past, select marble counter tops. Listed below are some causes to decide on marble for kitchen counter tops or rest room counter tops:
- Decayed Look: Over time, the fabric develops a worn look often called a patina. It has intricate patterns of veins embedded within the stone.
- Conventional and Versatile Design: Whereas marble is an opulent materials, it’s not only for traditional-style houses. It may be the focus of any design aesthetic. The patterns and variations of this pure stone make every marble laminate countertop Select a shade to match kitchen or rest room cupboards and flooring.
- Warmth Resistance: All pure stone, together with marble, is warmth resistant as much as 350 levels Fahrenheit. You may place sizzling pans or dishes on the marble countertop with no tripod.
Cons
Whereas marble is a superb alternative as a countertop materials, it has some disadvantages:
- Mismatched designs: The feel and variation of marble slabs make marble counter tops distinctive. In case you are in search of a uniform design, you should buy engineered stone counter tops.
- Sensitivity to scratches or scuffs: As a result of marble is a softer stone, it may possibly scratch simply. All the time use a reducing board when reducing meals to forestall etching. Heavy objects hitting the fabric may also trigger marbles to be scratched. Over time, these bruises might flip right into a bronzed design, making every marble slab distinctive.
- Acid sensitivity: Marble counter tops are calcium-based, to allow them to be simply broken by acids. This injury is known as etching. Make certain to make use of a pH impartial or barely alkaline cleaner when cleansing your marble to forestall etching. Additionally, attempt to hold the stone out of contact with acids comparable to lemons, tomatoes, and wine, as they’ll corrode the marble.
- Chance of staining: Like granite, marble is a porous materials and can stain if not sealed. We advocate that you just seal your marble counter tops a minimum of yearly. Sealing is not going to defend your marble from etching, clear up acid spills instantly to keep away from everlasting injury.
II. Execs and Cons of Marble Counter tops
Execs
Granite is extra versatile than marble counter tops. You should utilize granite to design outside counter tops. Even after years of damage and tear, granite kitchen counter tops will look new once more. Listed below are another advantages of granite counter tops:
- Warmth resistance: You may take away the recent pan from the range and place it on the granite countertop.
- Scratch Resistance: The principle distinction between granite and marble is the scratch resistance of granite. Whereas it’s nonetheless attainable for granite to be etched or scratched, it’s much less doubtless than a marble floor.
- Simple Upkeep: You may wipe the granite counter tops with heat water and a clear fabric after every use. You should utilize any family cleaner on granite. You may even make a pure home made cleaner to your counter tops with water and a gentle detergent.
Cons
When contemplating granite counter tops, deal with them by holding the next components in thoughts:
- Mismatched Designs: No two granite slabs have the identical look. Since it’s a pure stone, it has an natural sample distinctive to one another. In order for you a extra uniform look in your kitchen, it’s best to go for man-made supplies.
- Chance of Staining: Granite is a porous materials that, whereas unusual, will stain beneath the appropriate circumstances. Seal your granite counter tops each two years to maintain them moisture-resistant.
III. Marble Counter tops vs Granite Counter tops
Appearances of Marble vs Granite
As with all materials, the aesthetic variations between granite and marble are a matter of style.
Marble Counter tops: Some select marble for its class and texture, for simple identification, most frequently in black or white. Marble counter tops usually have a extra constant sample than granite counter tops.
Granite Counter tops: Some folks favor the pure look of granite, which is available in a variety of colours and patterns. Granite counter tops typically function flecks or veins in hues like black, pink, gold, crimson, or inexperienced.
Sturdiness of Marble vs Granite
Each marble and granite counter tops should be correctly sealed to keep up their long-time period sturdiness.
Marble Counter tops: Like granite, marble could be very robust and resistant to wreck. Nonetheless, it’s way more porous and can stain extra simply than granite. Marble is especially prone to etching from acidic liquids like vinegar or lemon juice.
Granite Counter tops: Granite is usually cited as probably the most sturdy pure countertop materials accessible, and it’s recognized for resisting cracks and chips effectively. With granite counter tops, you’ll be able to sometimes lower proper on the floor with out damaging it, place sizzling pans straight on the countertop, and wipe away spills simply.
Upkeep and Repairs for Marble and Granite Counter tops
Each marble and granite counter tops require routine upkeep and maintenance.
Marble Counter tops: Re-sealing marble counter tops ought to be carried out roughly each six months (sooner for high-contact surfaces). Much like granite, marble could also be repaired for minor injury; however, main points additionally name for skilled help.
Granite Counter tops: Granite is pretty stain-resistant with ample annual resealing, however well-used kitchens might require sealing each few months. Granite that has little dents or scratches will be repaired by hiring knowledgeable installer, however cracks bigger than an ice dice ought to be repaired with epoxy or resin that matches the granite’s shade.
IV. Marble Counter tops Value vs Granite Counter tops Value
Select a countertop that matches your price range. Countertop builders cost by the sq. foot. Usually talking, the price of granite is about three-fifths of that of marble.
Granite counter tops price barely lower than marble counter tops. Putting in granite begins at about $75 per sq. foot. Marble begins at near $100 per sq. foot put in. One of the best granite counter tops price $175 per sq. foot to put in, whereas marble can run as excessive as $200.
The complexity of workmanship, which is the variety of seams and corners and the type of sink you select, may also have an effect on marble countertop price. Getting a minimum of three written estimates from a countertop contractor will permit you to discover the very best countertop costs and most skilled installers in your space!
The next components have an effect on the value of marble counter tops vs granite counter tops:
1. Upkeep
Granite requires much less upkeep over time, so it can save you cash with granite counter tops. You can also make granite cleaner from family supplies. Marble counter tops require a particular sort of cleaner to take away stains. Cleansing granite is extra budget-friendly than cleansing marble.
2. Labor prices
Each supplies are heavy, making them troublesome to put in. Creating areas on slate additionally requires the experience of pros. The complexity of the reworking challenge and the quantity of labor concerned may also have an effect on the value.
3. Stone Kind
Excessive-quality marble or granite can also be costlier. Unique counter tops, comparable to blue granite, are costlier than customary granite counter tops. You will discover marble or granite to fit your price range.
4. Extra Therapies
Some producers deal with marble or granite counter tops. This particular therapy will increase the stain resistance of those supplies. In order for you granite or marble that doesn’t should be sealed as typically, you’ll have to pay extra upfront. George Stone now provides a service to forestall injury to your marble floor from acidic liquids and meals. MORE AntiEtch™ brings a crystal clear end to your marble surfaces. Whereas this service comes at an extra price, it provides you high-quality marble that’s simpler to keep up.
V. Ought to You Select Granite or Marble Counter tops?
The selection of marble versus granite relies on your design preferences. Since each marble and granite are pure stones, they serve the identical function in your house.
Each forms of stone work effectively in a toilet. Seal your rest room countertop about yearly to maintain it moisture-resistant. Granite is healthier within the kitchen as a result of it resists acidic spills. You should utilize marble as an ornamental desk for a conventional, upscale look.
You must select granite counter tops if:
- You favor a extra fashionable aesthetic.
- You desire a countertop materials that may shine for years to come back.
- You desire a pure look with out worrying about etching.
- You need to set up counter tops outside.
The choice you need to select from a wider collection of colours.. You must select marble counter tops if:
- You favor a extra luxurious aesthetic.
- You will have time to offer your marble the care it deserves.
- You just like the patina that marble will develop over time.
- You may improve to handled marble counter tops for improved stain resistance.
VI. Conclusion
When you’re prepared to supply extra upkeep in alternate for the elegant, long-lasting fantastic thing about pure stone, then think about marble or granite. Both one will elevate your kitchen or rest room and your luxurious residing to the subsequent stage.