When it comes to home remodeling, there’s always one last touch. Perhaps it’s a lampshade or floor tile pattern or set of antique chairs that simply complete a room. Or maybe it’s as basic as your kitchen countertops.
If you’re in the thick of renovation or can’t seem to spruce up your space, changing countertop materials is a fantastic way to lighten up or modernize a kitchen or living room without an expensive overhaul.
But as you dig into materials, many of us get stuck between two top contenders: marble or granite?
While you can’t go wrong with either stone, one material isn’t right for everyone and what works for your neighbor with an empty nest may not suit your busy family of five.
So what’s best? Marble or granite?
Of course, no stone is superior. But if you’re searching for key similarities between two of the most natural countertop selections, consider this your master list. Whether you’re loving marble but concerned about durability or pushing for granite but worried about elegance, let’s dive into the qualities they share. It’s time to finally decide what’s a dealbreaker and what fits within your family’s four walls.
Are They Different?
First thing’s first, yes, marble and granite are different. They have different consistencies, their lifespan varies, sometimes drastically, and depending on your home aesthetic, one may clash while the other complements. However, they’re born from the same earth and share more similarities than their price tag or surface-level appearance may suggest.
Versatility
The beauty of nature is that no element is ever an exact replica. Marble and granite countertops are no exception. Colors, shapes, and patterns build original works of art within each slab, so every stone is truly one-of-a-kind.
The materials also come in a variety of styles and, as a result, work within most interior aesthetics. From five-star hotels to your sister-in-law’s dining room, no matter the occasion, marble and granite find their place.
Strength
Scratches and stains are no match for natural stone. Not a synthetic material in sight, rock straight from the earth is generally resistant to daily wear-and-tear. Stop stressing over heat damage and scratches from kitchen knives and other household appliances. Of course, be cautious, but all in all, when you think granite and marble, think durability.
On Paper
When deciding between countertop materials in-store, you’re likely given samples to examine. Holding them in your own two hands, you probably can’t feel much of a difference. That’s because the two stones weigh the same hefty weight and, unless one of them has a textured or matte finish, they have the same smooth texture.
Related Questions
What are the dealbreaker differences?
While both materials are durable, marble is incredibly soft. In other words, the porous stone absorbs rather than repels moisture and spills. Knock over a glass of wine or can of tomato sauce or cup of grape juice? If it’s not properly sealed and promptly cleaned, the acidity can quickly seep into marble and settle into a permanent stain that sometimes requires professional removal. While marble is beautiful when properly maintained (and gives every room an expensive finish), marble isn’t the best option for a busy family with young kids notorious for mess and mayhem.
Aside from porosity, the two stones simply look different. While both marble and granite are made of elements from the earth, the origin of each stone differs once you dig a little deeper. Marble is metamorphic rock filled with swirls of mineral deposits. Fundamentally, granite is solidified lava, marked by color flecks and patterns. This differs dramatically from the large wisps of colored hues in marble. Both are stunning, but you may have a preference between the two.
Is there granite that resembles marble?
So, you’ve got small kids, a messy spouse, or just a busy life with no time for routine maintenance. But you love the elegance and timeless feel of marble. Sometimes, our lifestyles and our luxuries clash. Luckily, granite countertops are often manipulated to mimic the crisp, expensive look and feel of your favorite marble. Check out options like Casa Blanca, Glacier White, and Bianco Romano.
Above All Else…
Your home is your home! There’s no need to justify one choice or another. Whether it’s cost, maintenance, or your personal aesthetic preference, the best countertop choice for you is the one that makes you excited to walk through your front door. So, make your remodeling experience stress free and enjoyable with the design specialists at Wisconsin Granite Design in Oak Creek Wisconsin.
Our countertop specialists at Wisconsin Granite Design have the experience and knowledge to make your countertop dreams come true. We are Wisconsin’s #1 source for kitchen countertops, renovations and remodeling and are known for our vast onsite selection of granite, marble, quartz and more! Fabricating, delivering, and installing gorgeous bathroom and kitchen countertops is our specialty. Visit our showroom to see for yourselves and speak with a design specialist about your remodel, Free!