If the time has come for you to install a new countertop in your home, you will be faced with different challenges the first being how to choose the perfect material for the countertop. Natural stone is among the most popular countertop material. Marble and Granite are the two most popular natural stones in countertops. These two have notable difference that make them suitable for different countertop applications.

Appearance

The openly visible difference is the physical appearance. Granite appears to have speckled colours which are as result of melded stones within its composition (quartz, mica, feldspar, amphibole and biotite). Because of these variety of stone in granite, it comes in numerous shades and tones. On the other hand, marble is a solid greyish-white stone (sometimes cream) and has dark vein-like line running through it. Some rare varieties have a pink or pale green base colour. The vein-like lines are formed by mineral impurities like iron oxides and silt.

Properties

Both granite and marble are porous and can readily take in liquids that are spilled on them (spills need to be attended to quickly otherwise the stone will absorb the liquid and this causes stains). All the same, granite is more durable than marble. Marble being the more porous stone stains readily and experiences damage more readily than granite. It is also more susceptible to acidic spills and heat damages. Placing unattended hot objects on a marble countertop may damage the stone while acidic spills such as vinegar and lemon juice will dull the stone. All the same, the resistance of marble can be increased by using sealants and polishes. Overtime, the marble naturally becomes duller. Unlike spill stains that can be removed, the natural dulling of marble is irreversible.

Cost

Granite and marble cost vary slightly. On average, both cost between £40 and £150 per square foot installed. Individually, the cost will depend on the colour, availability and appearance. However, high-end marble tends to be more expensive than high-end granite of equivalent measure. You can get a fast instant quote here or call us at 01895 540 329

Stain Removal

The ease of removal of stains from the countertop surface depends on the type of stain and extent of damage. Some stains are light and superficial and can be removed readily using a stain remover. Others seep down in the stone’s pores and inflict permanent damage by inducing chemical changes to the material.

Production

Both marble and granite are mined as large blocks and later cut into manageable rectangular slabs. Granite slabs will be larger than marble slabs since granite is sturdier.

Environmental Considerations

If you are looking for a natural stone that is eco-friendly, well granite and marble might not be the best of choices. As much as both are long lasting, they mining, cutting, transportation and installation processes leave a considerable amount of carbon print.

Health Risks

Experts say that some granite contain trace elements of radio-active radium, thorium, and uranium. Over time, these elements may decay and emit radon, a noble gas that is believed to cause lung gas if breathed at high levels. Despite these concerns, the EPA has maintained that granite countertops are safe to be used at home.

Maintenance

Like mentioned earlier, both marble and granite are porous. They easily absorb liquids from spills. Sealants help to greatly improve resilient and prevent staining and etching on both marble and granite. Regardless if the stone is sealed or not, it is best to wipe up problematic spills as quickly as you can.

For best appearance and protection, re-sealing is recommended every two years in granite and bi-annually in marble. However, depending on the nature of usage, the resealing time varies. A busy countertop needs more frequent resealing than one that is not used frequently.