Marble vs Granite – Difference Between Marble and Granite

Difference Between Marble and Granite

Marble and Granite are the most popular natural stones. Both are, used as countertops for the kitchen and bathroom. Homeowners always get confused to choose which one is better for their house.

Marble and granite are both readily available natural materials that are mined straight from the soil.

Granite and marble differ greatly from one another, despite their shared characteristics.

Which stone you choose to use for the counters will depend on how they will be used, maintained, and where they are located.

For kitchen and bathroom countertops, granite and marble are the most famous natural stones. They are great alternatives to engineered stones.

More and more homeowners want to know what the differences are between these two types of stones.

So today in this article, we are going to discuss the difference between marble and granite, which will help you to select the suitable one for your home.

So let’s start

Marble Vs Granite

Origin

Marble is a Metamorphic rock formed by the recrystallization of carbon. It is formed by limestone that is subjected to intense pressure and heat due to tectonic shifting in the earth’s crust.

Granite is an igneous rock which means that it was formed by Magma deep within the earth.

Formation

Marble was once limestone that changed due to Intense heat and pressures this process altered its crystalline structure and introduced other minerals which produce characteristic veins.

On the other hand, Granite is an igneous rock which means it was once molten and formed as it cooled deep within the earth the minerals contained in granite usually, appear as a small flux throughout the stone.

Appearance

Marble has veins that swirl through the stone.

Whereas granite has a more flake-light granular appearance.

Colour

Marble is mostly available in Black or White.

Whereas granite can be sourced in a variety of different colours.

Composition

Marble is a calcareous stone and it is made of mainly calcium carbonate, travertine, limestone and Onyx are also calcareous stones.

Whereas granite is a siliceous stone and is composed mainly of silica, feldspar, and quartz which are very hard minerals. Slate and sandstone are also siliceous stones.

Durability

Marble is less durable.

Whereas granite tends to be very durable and easy to clean.

Strength

Marble has a hardness of 3 to 5 on the Mohs scale. Common kitchen tasks such as cutting contact with hot pants and dishes may also damage marble.

Granite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Granite easily resists scratches and damage from heat making it an ideal material for kitchen counters both inside the home and outside.

Porosity

Marble is soft and more porous than Granite.

Whereas granite is hard and solid.

Resistance to acidic foods

Marble is sensitive to acid including cleaning products and foods like citrus fruits, vinegar, wine tomatoes etc. Hence, sealing is very much necessary.

Granite is acid-resistant; as long as an effective sealant is maintained on the surface, liquid spills will not permeate into the surface.

Stain resistance

Marble can cause permanent staining.

The extreme density of granite makes it capable of resisting Virtually all stains from foods and liquids.

Fading of colour

Marble is susceptible to fading of colour and becoming duller over time. Unlike the stains which can be removed a dull marble has no way of getting its Shine back it is an Irreversible process and a major drawback of marble.

Whereas granite can retain its colour.

Heat

Marble is susceptible to heat.

Granite is resistant to heat and can easily withstand hot cookware, therefore, it is perfect for kitchen tops.

Uses

Marble is more appropriate in areas with less traffic like the bathroom where it can be used for vanity, Tub desk, shower walls and flooring.

Whereas granite’s durable nature makes it suitable for kitchen countertops and floors where there is high foot activity.

Sealants

Sealing is necessary to keep the material beautiful for both Granite and marble.

Marble requires sealing much more frequently than twice a year.

Whereas granite sealing is required once in 2 years.

Damaged by cleaning liquids

Both granite and marble can be damaged by cleaning liquids hence use gentle dish soaps.

Marble requires a diligent schedule of resealing to protect the porous surface.

Because granite countertops possess inherent stain-resistant properties, hence they require less frequent Sealer applications as compared to marble materials.

Cost

Cost varies according to colour and general appearance. The actual price, however, depends on the quality of the stone, the complexity of the job and the style of the tiles. As the varieties of marble and granites are many, the cost of each stone will depend on its availability in the market.

The cost of marble depends on many factors and it is expensive as compared to granite.

On the other hand, granite is usually less expensive than marble as it is a much more abundant material.

Scratch-resistant

Marble will get scratched with a knife.

On the other hand, granite is mostly scratch resistant.

Maintenance

Maintenance is required for both stones. Both are porous and both need to be sealed at the time of installation.

Conclusion

So, which one is better marble or granite, there is no one of the best materials, It all depends on the aesthetic you prefer and how much maintenance you are willing to do.

If you are looking for an elegant and more beautiful design and ready to give some of your time to maintenance, then go for marble.

But if you need a good and affordable design with less maintenance and a long-term durable solution going for granite and spending on it is not a bad option.

If you found this information helpful please share it with your friends.

Finally thanks for reading this article.

Also, read

Difference Between Ceramic and Vitrified Tiles

10 Bets Tiles Companies In India 2021

Difference Between Veneer and Laminates

MDF vs Particle Board – Difference Between MDF And Particle Board

8 – Types of Stairs, Flight of Stairs

Parapet Wall – Purpose, Types & Uses