Granite or Marble: How to Choose the Right Countertop for Your Kitchen

Selecting your kitchen countertop material is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when renovating your home. While you may have a particular vision in mind, choosing the surface for your space should be based on more than just appearance alone. There are some surfaces that are low-maintenance, but other materials such as granite and marble, require extra care and upkeep to maintain their beauty.

Let’s dive into the basics of using granite and marble in your home.

Granite

Granite is a top choice for countertops among homeowners because of its high-class aesthetic, rich beauty and it’s durability. It is available in a variety of shades, no two pieces are exactly the same, and comes in both matte and polished finishes. Granite countertops give your kitchen a look that is truly its own.

Aside from its natural beauty, granite is a substance that takes normal wear and tear. When sealed properly, granite countertops require minimal maintenance and everyday activities like knife blades, hot pans and spillage won’t damage its surface. However, a poorly-sealed or neglected countertop can harbor bacteria in its pores and absorb spills that are impossible to remove.

Marble

Marble counters no doubt offer spectacular beauty and elegance. The igneous stone comes in many hues, and no two slabs are alike, creating a truly unique look in your home. Additionally, marble can be a less expensive choice (depending on color) than other hard-wearing countertop materials, holds up well to heat, and is widely available.

So what’s the problem with marble countertops? Scratching, staining, chipping and etching.

Marble’s polished surface (along with other soft stones) is very vulnerable to household acids. That means food-related products such as vinegar, mustard and citrus can cause a chemical reaction and remove the polish on your stone.

So unless you cook and entertain with caution, you may want to steer clear of selecting marble for your kitchen countertops. However, this stone has a naturally smooth and cool surface, which is ideal for a pastry slab, and it’s high-tolerance for heat make it a great choice for around a fireplace.

When choosing materials for your countertop, considering the amount of upkeep you are willing to put in to maintain the beauty of your stone. If you are looking for high-quality options that are durable and functional, yet require no maintenance, consider a non-porous solid surface like quartz, stainless steel or laminate.