When someone has to choose natural stones for remodeling, the two most popular options are marble vs granite. These two stones are so famous that in many countries only these are preferred by the population. But, which one will be the better option, and which one might be less suitable? For example, if you are looking for a white-themed home, marble can be a good option. Does this mean you have to completely avoid granite? The answer is a big NO. Both have their own unique features that can make them useful for all kinds of purposes.
Let’s explore the difference between marble and granite for a better understanding:
Marble vs Granite: Appearance
Appearance is the first thing you notice when it comes to selecting between marble vs granite. That’s because it distinguishes two natural stones from each other.
Marble: Timeless charm
If you have seen historical artwork, you know how incredibly marble slab has been utilized in those. Mostly white-colored marble is used for its brilliant appearance, but many other options are also available. Popular marble colors may also include grey, blue, green, copper, beige and blue. Moreover, the veining designs also highlight the beautiful look of marble.
Colors and veins define the appearance of marble. Imagine a light brown marble countertop that has dark veining patterns in a kitchen with off-white walls and cabinets. This will look stunning, right? You can also use any marble and pair it with the other elements to create such looks.
Granite: Speckled & Bold
Granite slab has a speckled and bold appearance, created by the interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. This natural composition gives it a granular texture with a mix of shades. The colors of granite range from brown to red, green, and blue colors. Other than that, neutral granite-colored countertops can also be seen. Moreover, granular structures also vary from stone to stone.
Just like marble, granite’s appearance is also defined by its colors and veining patterns. The difference is that it is used for a bold look, while marble gives a subtle touch. Imagine a beige granular granite countertop paired with dark brown cabinets. This is the most demanding look for kitchens.
Marble vs Granite: Strength
Durability and strength is what greatly differentiates marble from granite.
Marble: Soft & Porous
Marble is famous as “soft stone,” which means it has a lower hardness level. It might make you think that it is more sensitive to damage, but that is farther from the truth. A marble stone provides the strength needed to make it useful for flooring, statues, countertops and many other purposes. This means, it is sufficient to provide the durability needed to be used for remodeling projects.
Marble has a porous surface, so it needs regular sealing and finishing. The glossy, matte, and textured finishes are available to make it attractive and poreless at the same time. It’s a soft stone, which makes it useful for many purposes since it can be easily crafted.
Granite: Hard & Resilient
When it comes to stones, granite is the hardest and most durable option. It is useful for making strong walls, countertops, flooring, and many other purposes. Moreover, it is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture. If we compare granite vs marble, the former has a less porous structure than the later one. This means you need less sealing to keep it poreless. This adds to the strength of granite. Thus, anyone searching for exceptional durability and strength can choose granite stone.
Granite is so strong that it is sometimes so hard to cut and install. So, without expertise, no one can use it efficiently. That’s because heavy machinery and skills are required to shape granite stone.
Marble vs Granite: Maintenance
Maintenance depends upon the texture, porosity, resistance to scratches, and many other factors.
Marble: Regular Care
Marble needs regular and proper maintenance because it has pores that can occupy dirt and debris. Without proper care, marble can fade its natural beauty. You will need to schedule regular sealing marble as well to make the stone poreless. Moreover, stains can get absorbed, so immediate cleaning is necessary. Other than that, negligence can cause scratches so you need to take a good care of marble. Some crucial maintenance factors may include:
- Proper sealing
- Regular cleaning
- Use of neutral cleaners
- Cautious with sharp objects
- Need coasters or pads
Granite: Sealed Upkeep
Granite is less porous and scratch resistant, but that does not mean there is no need for maintenance. However, you will not need to clean it many times a day. Moreover, sealing is also required less frequently. For example, you can lay back and enjoy a durable granite countertop without worrying that hotpots or sharp objects can damage it. The crucial maintenance needed for granite stone may include:
- Proper cleaning
- No harsh chemicals
- Coasters and placements for extra safety
- Cutting boards
Marble vs Granite: Usability
Marble and granite both are useful for flooring, countertops, and more but with little differences.
Marble: Artistic Functionality
Marble is soft yet durable enough to be used for many different purposes, just like granite. For example, if we compare marble vs granite countertops, both are good options. The difference is in their maintenance. When the traffic is low, in that case marble is a perfect option. Moreover, the delicate pieces of artwork can be perfectly crafted using white or gold marble stones. Here are the top uses of marble:
- Bathroom vanities
- Fireplace surrounds
- Decorative accents
- Artwork
- Flooring in low-traffic areas
- Shower walls
Granite: Robust Utility
Granite is a strong stone that is useful for a variety of applications. Whether you use it as a countertop or flooring, you can do so without worrying about the traffic. That’s because it remains unbothered in heavy traffic areas as well. Moreover, when we compare granite vs marble countertops, granite is the preferred option. It cannot be used for artwork, but it is perfect to make many other things. For example:
- Kitchen countertops
- Flooring in high-traffic areas
- Wall cladding
- Outdoor landscaping
- Bathroom countertops
Marble vs Granite: Cost Comparison
Cost is another important factor that can differentiate two natural stones from each other. Let’s compare the cost of marble and granite:
Marble: Typically, marble is more costly because of the stone’s opulent appearance and the labor-intensive finishing and quarrying processes. However, it may vary on the kind of marble and its scarcity significantly. The cost of marble is higher because marble is a rare stone that is hard to find compared to granite. Some types of marble, e.g., Carrara and Calacatta, are more costly.
Granite: It is normally more inexpensive than marble and provides a good option for the look of natural stone. Furthermore, the cost may vary from stone to stone as per their color, pattern design and availability. Granite stone is easy to find; therefore, it is inexpensive compared to marble. However, installation and tool charges can change the cost.
Final Words:
Marble and granite are the two most famous natural stones that have been used for decades to create incredible architectural masterpieces, places, and surfaces. But, the question is, how are these two different if both are equally popular? Well, the answer lies in the difference between their appearance, strength, maintenance, cost and usage. When there is a debate on marble vs granite, the best thing is there is no winner or loser. That’s because both are useful in their own unique way. For example, if you are impressed by the beauty of marble, you can have it to make a stunning masterpiece, but the granite is also available for various applications. The choice between the two depends on your preferences.
Need help deciding? Contact SK Stones USA to talk to experts for a free consultation on the perfect stone choice!
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