Kitchen Remodel: Marble vs Granite Countertops

 May/15/2020      604 The Complete Guide on Marble vs Granite Countertops for your Remodel

There are many reasons to invest in a kitchen remodel. The kitchen is a very important place in a home. It’s where many people spend a lot of time. You cook there, clean there and may even eat there if you have a dining area. For those reasons, the kitchen is one of the most important spaces to homebuyers. By updating your kitchen you can increase the value of your home and make it more enjoyable. One way to update your kitchen is by changing your countertops.

 

If you are looking into remodeling your kitchen countertops, you’re probably considering marble and granite materials. In this guide, we will go over:

·        The differences between marble and granite
·        How they look
·        How much each material costs
·        How to care for each material
·        Details on the durability of each

What is the difference between marble and granite for kitchen countertops?

Granite is primarily made of trace minerals including quartz, potassium feldspar, mica and amphiboles. It comes in a variety of colors including white, green, blue or brown.

Marble is primarily made of calcium carbonate, softer than granite materials. There are different types of marble including: carrara, calcatta, emperador and crema marfil.

What’s the best option for my style?

Granite comes in a wider variety of colors, making it easier to match your personal aesthetic. However, be careful which color you choose as exotic colors may go out of style.

Marble is classic and timeless. On the other hand, it only comes in a few colors. If you don’t want white or off-white, marble might not be for you.

How much do they cost?

Granite can cost between $40 and $100 per square foot. If you’re looking for a unique color or a larger slab, the cost will go up.

Marble can cost between $50 to $150 per square foot including installation. If you choose a rare type of marble, the cost will go up. The size and shape of the marble required will also affect the cost.

Caring for kitchen countertops

Granite requires frequent cleaning, but it’s simple to clean using mild soap and water. If you live a spill to sit, it will absorb into the stone and stain. If you use abrasive cleaners it can scratch and dull the granite finish.

Marble can stain and etch, so it’s important to clean spills immediately. You must use cleaning products specifically created for natural stone. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

Which is more durable?

Granite is more resistant to chipping and cracking. It can resist scratches from kitchen tools. Marble is softer and is prone to scratching and chipping. Acidic foods can wear it out and give it a dull appearance.

Granite is very heat resistant, making it ideal for kitchen countertops. You could place a hot pan on it without causing the stone to change colors. However, there is a chance heat could cost a crack if there’s thermal shock. Marble is prone to discoloration from heat applied directly to it, so you would not be able to place hot pans on it. It can also crack from heat.

Summary

All things considered granite is the better choice for kitchen countertops. It’s heat resistant and more tolerant to acidic foods. It will last long if cared for and doesn’t require as rigorous care as marble.

Looking to install new kitchen countertops? At HomeContractors101, we can match you with a kitchen counter contractor near you. Compare quotes and find the best contractor for your project.