As granite and marble have become increasingly popular materials for kitchen and bathroom worktops around the world over the last decade, home owners have become increasingly curious about the differences between these two natural stones. Many homeowners want to know what material is best for kitchen countertops, what material is best for bathroom vanity tops, what stone is best for outdoor kitchens, if marble can be used for kitchen counters, and so on.
Shree Balaji Granites, Bangalore, presents this article to compare and contrast granite and marble as part of its consumer education efforts.
Granite and marble are both naturally occurring stone materials that are extracted directly from the earth. Although marble and granite share certain fundamental similarities, they also have considerable distinctions.
The selection between installing marble and granite your home is influenced by the placement as well as how they will be used and maintained.
Formation
Marble
Marble is a metamorphic stone because it is formed through the change of another type of stone known as sedimentary stone. Sedimentary rocks form throughout time as sediments in the soil mingle with buried plant life under the earth. Under extreme heat and pressure, these sedimentary rocks transform into marble. Other minerals are incorporated into the marble during this process, which can give the stone beautiful colors. So, in essence, marble begins as limestone and evolves into marble. Marble is mostly composed of calcium carbonate, which is significantly softer than granite's constituents.
Granite
Granite is formed over millions of years by the solidification and cooling of magma deep within the earth. Because it formed from the cooling of liquid magma, it is categorized as an igneous rock. Granite originates as a very hard substance during the process of heating and then slow cooling. Granite is mostly composed of Feldspar and Quartz, both of which are extremely hard minerals.
Appearance
Granite and marble have a similar appearance; yet, with closer inspection, unique variances can be seen. The inherent color differences found in granite and marble differ between the two stones.
Color variations in granite are typically visible as flecking throughout the stone. Marble color variations appear like multicolored veins flowing through the stone.
Strength and Durability
Granite and marble's overall strength and durability are directly related to the natural processes that generate them. Although both materials will last and look beautiful in the home for many years, it is critical to choose the suitable material for the location to avoid damage.
Marble
Marble has a Mohs hardness range of 3 to 5. Marble does not have the same durability as granite and will be damaged by regular kitchen chores like as chopping. Contact with hot cookware and dishes may also cause marble to deteriorate. Marble is a better surface choice for low-traffic areas such as bathroom vanities, fireplace surrounds, and ornamental accents.
Granite
Granite has a Mohs hardness rating of 6 to 7. Granite is resistant to scratches and heat damage, making it a perfect material for kitchen counters both inside and outside the home. Granite counters will not scratch or discolor as a result of normal home activities.
Stain Resistance
Marble
Marble's metamorphic properties result in a more porous substance. The porosity of marble causes some elements to absorb when they come into touch with it. Some foods or liquids, such as tomato sauce, wine, juice, lemons, and vinegar, for example, will seep into marble and cause permanent stains.
Granite
Granite's tremendous density makes it resistant to practically all stains from meals and liquids. Even acidic liquids, such as vinegar, will not enter granite as long as an effective sealant barrier is present.
Sealants
Granite and marble both require sealing to preserve their gloss. A professional will apply sealant to both materials prior to or shortly after installation to prevent harm.
Marble
To safeguard the porous surface of marble, it must be resealed on a regular basis. Reseal marble at least twice a year, and more frequently if you notice water sinking into the marble rather than gathering on the surface.
Place a small puddle of water on the surface of granite or marble to see if new sealant is required. If the water continues to drip, the existing sealant is still effective. If the water penetrates the stone, reapply new sealant.
Granite
Although granite worktops are naturally stain resistant, they require less frequent sealer application than marble materials. For best results, apply a fresh layer of sealant once a year or every three years, depending on the type of sealer used.
Safe Cleaning
To keep the surfaces clean and appealing, clean sealed granite counters on a regular basis using ordinary soapy water. Completely rinse away the soap.
To avoid damaging the porous stone, marble surfaces must be cleaned with greater care. To avoid discoloring the marble, use a cleaning agent with a neutral pH. If you use an abrasive cleaning on marble, you risk fading the finish.
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