Granite vs. Marble Countertops

The customization of your new kitchen must be well thought out. The cabinets, the lighting, the sink, the door handles and the drawers, there really is a lot to consider. One of the main areas to consider is the countertop materials. Should you choose hard plastic, resin, ceramic, stainless steel, slate, softwood, aluminum, concrete, hardwood, granite, or marble? But don’t worry, we’ll take a look at two of the most commonly used materials for countertops.

Marble Countertops – These materials are tolerant of hot surfaces, so they are often used in kitchen countertops, especially in the baking area. Cakes and dough also roll out easily and beautifully on marble counters. It is also used in kitchen islands and bars. The downside is that marble is porous and softer compared to granite. It is more prone to scratches, stains, cracks and others, and would require more maintenance to keep it from looking dull.

Cleaning and maintenance – Use a soft cloth such as a microfiber cloth to remove dust at least once a week. Use a damp cloth for wet cleaning together with a specific stone cleaner. Never use regular cleaning materials or products that can corrode and dull the stone surface in the long run. Common foods that can damage marble are high-acid foods such as vinegar, tomatoes, and citrus fruits such as orange and lemon. To prevent damage from stains and corrosive substances, be sure to seal the surface, especially when water begins to drop, as part of regular maintenance.

Granite Countertops – Granite is a natural stone that is highly durable and also comes in various colors, shades, and patterns. Its surface is non-porous and almost diamond-hard, but it can also crack. Like marble, it can also withstand high temperatures, but is more resistant to stains, scratches, mold and mildew.

Cleaning and maintenance – Also use a soft microfiber cloth to clean or dust the surface. Be sure to clean it daily or as needed with water. Do not use abrasive and hard cleaning materials. Clean the surface weekly with a damp cloth and neutral pH cleaner.

There are still many materials to choose from. Depending on your lifestyle, functionality, budget, and the look you want to achieve, it should be easier to narrow down your options. Just be sure to check each spec to help you see which one best suits your needs.