What Is the Difference Between Granite and Marble Countertops? 

Whether you’re planning a remodel or simply looking for a new countertop for your kitchen, it’s important to understand the difference between granite and marble. Each stone has its own strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right material for your project will help keep your kitchen looking beautiful for years to come. 

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Granite is a relatively hard and durable material, making it a good choice for countertops. Its dense nature means it requires less maintenance than marble, and the stain resistance is great for kitchen countertops. However, it’s not as eco-friendly as marble. In addition, it can be susceptible to scratches and stains, so it’s best suited for more low-traffic areas. 

Marble is a metamorphic rock that’s formed when limestone is subjected to extreme heat and pressure. It has a beautiful vein pattern, and comes in a variety of colors. However, it’s more porous than granite. It is also susceptible to stains, scratches, and water spots. 

Marble is a good choice for bathroom vanities and kitchen backsplashes. However, its porous nature means it’s more likely to absorb chemicals and materials than granite, making it a less-than-stellar choice for everyday cooking. Marble is also more likely to get stained by oily foods, so it’s best suited for less active surfaces. 

There’s no doubt that marble is a beautiful material, but its cost is significant. Marble countertops can cost as much as $150 a square foot. That figure increases with the size of the slab, the type of stone, and the complexity of the installation. Also, rarer colors and types of marble may cost more. 

In addition to the material’s cost, the best way to tell the difference between granite and marble is to examine the quality. Granite is more durable than marble, and it’s also available in a wider variety of colors. However, it’s worth noting that the price of these materials can fluctuate based on supply and demand. It also takes a lot of energy to cut and transport granite. If you’re looking to save money on your new countertops, it’s worth considering purchasing reclaimed stone instead. 

The material’s most impressive feature is the fact that it’s a metamorphic rock. This means it’s formed through complex earth reactions over millions of years. A variety of materials were used to form it, but the most notable is quartz and feldspar. Granite is also relatively heat-proof and stain-resistant. Whether you choose marble or granite, it’s best to keep it from getting too hot. If you plan to cook on your new countertops, it’s a good idea to place a trivet underneath the hot pan. 

Both marble and granite are beautiful, and it’s worth considering the benefits of each material before settling on a final choice. However, granite is the winner in the durability and scratch-resistance department. Marble isn’t as durable, and requires more maintenance than granite. Marble’s many other advantages include a beautiful vein pattern, a variety of colors, and the fact that it can be remodeled if necessary.