marble and granite

Is marble better than granite?

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    Countertops made from natural stone can be found in an almost infinite number of distinct hues and designs. Granite counters are a trendy addition to both contemporary and classic interiors. Marble has long been considered the standard for opulent interior design. Here's a quick and easy way to zero in on the correct reading material.

    Kitchens and bathrooms benefit from natural stone worktops. It's lovely, available in a rainbow of hues, readily adaptable to a broad variety of shapes and sizes, and works well with any kind of interior design.

    Most kitchens that have natural stone worktops use granite or marble. There are benefits and drawbacks to using each material; pick the one that best fits your situation and budget. When compared to marble, granite has a more natural appearance. Installing a marble countertop is more expensive than using granite because of the material's size and weight.

    Despite their similarities, granite and marble are used for very diverse purposes. What follows is a comparison of two widely used kinds of stone for countertops.

    The countertops in your kitchen or bathroom may make or break your experience. Due to their natural origins, both marble and granite are susceptible to scratching and staining. When compared to marble, granite is more durable and difficult to damage. As a result, granite is typically seen in culinary spaces while marble is favoured in the bathroom.

    Knowledge of Marble and Granite

    The difference between the two is subtle, yet both are porous because they are made of natural stone. Marble is a metamorphic rock because it is a recrystallized form of carbon that was formed during the metamorphism of another rock. It is made out of limestone that has been through intense pressure and heat due to tectonic plate movement deep within the earth's crust.

    In contrast, granite is an igneous rock composed of compacted granules of minerals like quartz, feldspar, mica, and so on. Even though marble is a hard material, this suggests that granite is slightly more long lasting.

    marble and granite

    Appearance

    Stones like marble and granite are timeless and beautiful. Many different minerals and stones used to make countertops are very similar in composition and features.

    Simply put, granite is a type of igneous or metamorphic stone that is primarily made up of the minerals silica, feldspar, mica, and quartz. Granite has a dense, granular exterior. Solid colour, polka dots, or lines. Light and dark tones come together in their own special way in each granite slab.

    Calcite predominates as the main mineral in both metamorphic and sedimentary marble. To make those green "marbles," serpentine is the material of choice. Marbles can be crafted from either quartzite or pure quartz. When compared to granite, marble is both smoother and less granular. Surface colours of marble, like those of granite, can range from white to black.

    Stones like marble and granite can look very different from one slab to the next due to the wide variety of minerals used to create their colours.

    Metamorphic and sedimentary marble both have polished, mineral-veined surfaces. Quartz or serpentine can be used to make marble. There is a preconceived notion that marble only comes in black and white.

    Granite is typically metamorphic or igneous in origin and has granular surfaces. Varying from nearly invisible veins and specks to solid black, colours can be found across the spectrum.

    Both types of stone take on aesthetic characteristics unique to their region of origin and the quarry from which they were cut.

    It is suggested that you go to a stone yard to pick out your stone. Store-bought samples of marble or granite rarely reflect the material's true beauty.

    Installation

    Both marble and granite may be fashioned into and set up as counter surfaces with equal ease. The slab you desire is a copy of your current kitchen counter. The edge and openings in the template are used to guide the slab's cutting.

    Cabinets are prepped for the slab's arrival by applying silicone adhesive. Make the slab lower. Marble slabs thinner than 114 inches (3 cm) may require a plywood substrate for support during installation, but thicker slabs can go straight on top of cabinets.

    Marble is more expensive than granite and requires more of it to finish a kitchen because of its smaller slab size.

    After a template is made out of paper or cardboard and transferred to a slab of granite or marble, the slab is then cut and finished for use as a countertop. The silicone adhesive is used to fasten the slab to the cabinets or plywood. Sink and faucet holes in stone countertops can be challenging to cut. Both tasks require expert skill sets.

    Costs

    A square foot of granite can set you back $40 - $75. A square foot of some unique blue stones might cost you $500. The price of the materials for a 30-square-foot counter ranges from $1,000 to $1,500. The additional costs of $330 for fabrication and labour, $100 for a sink cutout, and $10 per linear foot for edging bring the final price of the stone to its final form. The installed price of a granite counter that is 30 square feet is between $3,000 and $3,500.

    The costs associated with making, installing, cutting, and edging marble are all roughly the same. From $60-$100 per square foot, marble is a pricey material. A similarly sized marble counter would have a material cost of between $3,800 and $5,000, or an average of $3,800.

    Durability

    The composition of stone is what gives it its longevity. Soft, porous calcite is used to create marbles. Because of this, marble is more prone to stains, etching, and loss of finish. In order to conceal etching on marble surfaces, an honed or matte finish is recommended. Marbles can be composed of materials other than calcite. Unlike white marble, green serpentine marble does not etch easily but does flake when exposed to water. Some quartzites are mislabelled as marble, however they are far harder and more long lasting than true marbles.

    How long a piece of granite lasts depends on its specific composition. Absolute Black is an example of an igneous granite or gabbro, which means it is nonporous and resistant to scratches and etching. Dark granites, in general, are impervious to etching and stains.

    It's simple to generalise that any and every stone is extremely sturdy and unbreakable, but that's not always the case. The only downside of granite and marble is that they need to be sealed every year to prevent water damage. Although granite and marble can withstand high temperatures, you should still use caution and not put hot cookware directly on the surface. The durability of granite makes it preferable than marble in this regard.

    Some pale granites are actually dolomites that have undergone metamorphism. These may cause scuffing or staining.

    Granite's durability far outweighs that of marble's. Each gem is assigned a letter grade, from A+ to D+. Stones with a D grade are fragile, whereas those with an A grade are solid.

    Can you polish stone easily? We provide stone-polishing equipment for purchase.

    Maintenance

    Maintenance is necessary for all natural stones. Each granite and marble is unique. Granites need less upkeep than marbles.

    Seal all granites after installation, except for black. Water beads on stone because of how well it's sealed. If the stone stops beading water, you should reseal it. Always use a pH-neutral cleaner to protect finishes and avoid etching by wiping up spills as soon as possible.

    Marble, like all porous stones, needs to be sealed on a regular basis. Marble is notoriously difficult to remove stains from, even after being sealed. Never leave a spill unattended and never place an acidic substance like lemon juice, tomato sauce, or red wine on the counter.

    To avoid etching, marble should be cleaned with a product that is neutral in PH. The difference between this and granite is that it needs to be resealed every three months.

    Homeowners should be on the lookout for any signs of wear and tear, as the level of care needed varies for different types of natural stone countertops. When compared to marble, granite has many advantages like resistance to stains, longevity, and less upkeep. Granite needs to be sealed after installation so water beads up. It is recommended to reseal your surface once a year to keep it in good condition.

    Scratches and chips can be fixed with stone epoxy. Some extra help in the kitchen may be required during peak times.

    A sealer developed for porous stones is the best choice for protecting marble. Marble can be stained even if sealed, so it's important to wipe up accidents as away. Marble can be etched by acidic substances such as tomato sauce, lemon juice, and citrous.

    Heat-Resistance

    Natural stones that don't melt under high temperatures. Both volcanic activity and high temperatures and pressure were necessary in the formation of both sorts of stones. Neither material loses its colour when placed near a hot stove or oven. Be careful when handling hot pots, even if they are made from stone.

    Radon

    Radon 2 is released by decaying granite in the soil. Use of granite in domestic settings can cause apprehension in some. Radon 2 is not released into the home by granite or marble countertops. There are radon 2 test kits that can detect the gas.

    Profitability

    When it comes to resale value, granite and marble countertops aren't enough to make up the difference. Approximately 53% of the money spent on a high-end kitchen remodel will be returned, according to Remodeling Magazine.

    Both granite and marble have the ability to increase the value of a home by increasing the perceived value of the kitchen.

    Do You Want To Know If Granite Countertops Are Right For You?

    • When you're going for a sleek, sophisticated look, nothing beats granite.
    • If you'd want a larger palette of options, that's your chance.
    • When you need a sturdy surface to work on worktops with abandon and lots of force.
    • In the event that you have a large number of folks utilising your kitchen.
    • If you tend to make a mess on your work surface frequently.

    Possible Indications That You Would Benefit From Having Marble Countertops in Your Home?

    • To those who find stone more aesthetically pleasing.
    • If you don't mind putting in extra effort into upkeep.
    • You can splurge on marble slabs for your countertops if you don't mind breaking the bank.
    • If you are not overly worried with scratches and dings on your countertops, you can be rather careless.
    • If you are an expert cleaner and are confident in your ability to keep the marble clean, you may be able to avoid the need for constant maintenance.

    Production

    Large blocks of granite and marble are extracted from the earth, and those blocks are subsequently sawn into thinner, more workable slabs. Granite is cut into thicker slabs than marble because it is more durable.

    Concerns For The Environment

    To put it bluntly, neither granite nor marble is a material that is kind to the planet. While both can survive for centuries with proper care, a lot of initial effort and energy is needed to mine, cut, transport, and set up the stones.

    Potential Harm to One's Health

    Minor levels of naturally occuring radioactive elements including radium, uranium, and thorium may be present in some granites. Inhalation of elevated levels of the noble gas radon has been associated with an increased risk of developing lung cancer. Radon can be released when these things break down over time.

    Even though some people have raised alarms about the prospective health risks of granite countertops, it is generally accepted that they are safe. The Marble Institute of America has a library of articles detailing the history of false claims made about granite's safety.

    Now The Question is, Which One Should You Pick?

    How attractive and low-maintenance something is will vary from person to person.

    Both are found in nature and are extracted through quarrying processes, although they have distinct characteristics. Differences in porosity are what set granite apart from marble. Unlike granite, marble is typically softer and more porous. Vermont's Imperial Danby marble is a sturdy material. Because of its crystalline structure, granite is highly scratch-, stain-, and fade-proof.

    As an igneous rock, granite solidified from magma at great depths. The minerals in granite are often only visible as small specks. Using intense heat and pressure, limestone is turned into marble. This resulted in a modification of its crystalline structure and the incorporation of new minerals, which can be seen as veining.

    Both marble and granite are dense and strong, as well as resistant to heat and scorching. Due to their organic origins, both can range widely in hue and design. A sample on display at the store might not be representative of the entire inventory in either scenario. (Really appreciate the depth and beauty of slabs in person, no matter the material.) Both surfaces need sealing because they can be stained by oily or pigmented substances (typically once a year.) Both are generated by complicated earth interactions over long periods of time, giving them an appearance that is unlike anything that could be manufactured.

    Countertops, backsplashes, and walls can all benefit from the elegance of marble and granite. Each is a valuable and rare gemstone.

    Learn the difference between Marble and Granite now. Both have their own special qualities. The beauty and function of the stone are factors to consider. Consider marble if upkeep is not a deal breaker. In comparison to other natural stones, granite has the highest durability, is resistant to scratches, and requires the least amount of care.

    Conclusion

    Granite countertops are a stylish upgrade for any home, whether modern or traditional. Due to the size and weight of marble, the cost to have it cut and installed for a countertop is higher than it would be with granite. Each material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages; select the one that works best for your needs. The granular surfaces of granite, which can be either metamorphic or igneous in origin, are characteristic of the rock. Marble can be crafted from either quartz or serpentine.

    As with granite, marble can have any number of tones on its surface, from white to black. Both varieties of stone take on aesthetic qualities that are distinctive to their native regions. Paper or cardboard is used as a template, which is then transferred to the stone surface. After the slab has been prepared for use as a countertop, it is cut and finished. Marble can cost anywhere from $60 to $100 per square foot, depending on the type, size, and finish desired.

    The longevity of granite far exceeds that of marble. The quality of each gem is rated on a scale from A+ to D+. Fragile stones get a D grade, while strong ones get an A. Acidic substances like tomato sauce, lemon juice, and citrous can etch marble. In the soil, decaying granite releases radon 2.

    Kits that test for radon 2 are commercially available. The return on investment for a high-end kitchen remodel is approximately 53%. Granite is more sturdy than marble, so it is cut into thicker slabs. Both have their origins in the earth and are obtained through quarrying techniques, but they each have their own unique properties. Granite is the most long-lasting material, as it is scratch-proof and requires little maintenance. Both are impervious to fire and intense heat, making them ideal for construction.

    Content Summary

    • Kitchens and bathrooms benefit from natural stone worktops.
    • Most kitchens that have natural stone worktops use granite or marble.
    • What follows is a comparison of two widely used kinds of stone for countertops.
    • The countertops in your kitchen or bathroom may make or break your experience.
    • It is suggested that you go to a stone yard to pick out your stone.
    • Make the slab lower.
    • After a template is made out of paper or cardboard and transferred to a slab of granite or marble, the slab is then cut and finished for use as a countertop.
    • The silicone adhesive is used to fasten the slab to the cabinets or plywood.
    • Sink and faucet holes in stone countertops can be challenging to cut.
    • We provide stone-polishing equipment for purchase.
    • Each granite and marble is unique.
    • Seal all granites after installation, except for black.
    • It is recommended to reseal your surface once a year to keep it in good condition.
    • Radon 2 is not released into the home by granite or marble countertops.
    • Both granite and marble have the ability to increase the value of a home by increasing the perceived value of the kitchen.
    • You can splurge on marble slabs for your countertops if you don't mind breaking the bank.
    • Even though some people have raised alarms about the prospective health risks of granite countertops, it is generally accepted that they are safe.
    • Countertops, backsplashes, and walls can all benefit from the elegance of marble and granite.
    • Learn the difference between Marble and Granite now.
    • The beauty and function of the stone are factors to consider.
    • Consider marble if upkeep is not a deal breaker.

    FAQs About Marbles

    Hardness and longevity: Granite is comparatively harder and stronger than marble. It is mostly known as the most durable natural stone and compared to marble. It is resistant to heat and can easily withstand hot cookware therefore it is perfect for kitchen tops.

    Granite is a harder stone than marble and holds up better to chips and scratches. Some light-coloured granites, however, are dolomites, which is a metamorphic stone. These may scratch, etch, or stain. In general granite counters are considered more durable than marble.

    Granite: A 1/2-inch-thick slab of granite weighs 6.5 pounds per square foot, making a 30-square-foot slab of granite 195 pounds. Marble: Marble is even heavier than granite. At 6.67 pounds per square foot, a 30-square-foot slab or marble weighs about 200 pounds.

    It is your body that gets warm, so any surface you touch is likely to feel colder due to the difference between your body temperature and the surrounding air temperature. However, marble's density and quick heat conduction mean that the granite floor tiles will take a lot more energy before it feels warm to touch.

    Hardness and Durability: Granite is harder than marble, so it is more resistant to chips and scratches. Both materials are heat resistant, though caution should be used with hot pots and pans in the kitchen or hot hair tools in the bathroom.

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