When it comes to natural materials which are commonly used in interior design and architecture, granite and marble are two options that stand out among the rest. This is thanks to their amazing qualities and beautiful appearances.
While both of these materials offer amazing durability and timeless appeal, they possess unique qualities that make them suitable for different applications and uses. To learn more about marble vs granite keep reading, and find out the differences to make an informed decision.
Geological Formation
The first and foremost difference between the two stems from their formation processes. Marble is a metamorphic rock formed from limestone under intense pressure and heat.
During the metamorphic process, limestone recrystallizes and forms interlocking crystals. This process involves the addition of other minerals that create the signature vein patterns of marble.
On the other hand, granite is an igneous rock that is formed through the cooling process of molten magma. The slow cooling process of the magma allows large crystals to form, which gives granite its characteristic speckled appearance. Similar to marble, the minerals that get mixed into it during the creation determine the color and pattern of the stone.
The primary minerals in granite are feldspar, mica, and quartzite. Each of these brings their unique abilities to granite. For example, quartzite gives the stone its strength whereas mica gives it a slightly shimmery look.
Hardness and Durability
Granite has a higher ranking on the Mohs scale of hardness compared to marble. Granite usually scores between 6 and 7 where whereas marble in general has a score of around 3 or 4. The difference in hardness means that granite can withstand scratches, chips, and general wear and tear more successfully than marble.
The softer nature of marble makes it more susceptible to wear and tear, however, it is still a strong material. Marble is also vulnerable to etching if it comes into contact with acidic substances such as lemon juice or vinegar.
On the other hand, the soft nature of marble also makes it easier to work with. In other words, it can be carved into more intricate designs and shapes than granite. This quality has made marble the favorite material of sculptors and artists for centuries. For homeowners, it means that if you are interested in ornate details such as ogee edge profile, marble is the right choice for you. Similarly, due to its softness, marble is easier to repair and refinish, although it requires more consistent maintenance.
Porosity and Maintenance
Both granite and marble are naturally porous stones. However, when comparing the two, in general marble is considered to be more porous. It should be noted that the porousness of the stone is also dependent on its quality. For example, a very high-quality marble can be less porous than a below-average quality granite.
The porousness is an important quality because the more porous a stone is, the more prone to staining it will be. Therefore, more porous stones require more frequent sealing to ensure the longevity of their beauty. The difference in porousness between marble and granite affects their maintenance requirements significantly.
The low porousness of granite provides better protection against stains or discoloration. However, it is not completely resistant. Granite also needs to be resealed periodically to ensure dirt and grime don’t seep into the stone to cause bacterial growth. The recommended time to reseal granite is generally once every year whereas marble should be resealed once every six months.
Heat Resistance
Both marble and granite have incredible heat resistance properties. They are both formed within the crust of the Earth under immense heat. Therefore, they are both great options for areas where high heat resistance is necessary, such as kitchens.
Granite is capable of withstanding temperatures up to 480°F without taking any damage. Marble can be more susceptible to thermal shock between the two, however, it is also a great option for kitchens.
While neither of these stones will be damaged from placing hot pots and pans directly on them, the sealant that is applied for their protection isn’t as heat resistant. The stones won’t be damaged, but the sealant might burn, leaving the stone in need of resealing. To avoid this, professionals advise the use of trivets just to be safe.
Appearance and Aesthetics
Marble is known for its gorgeous appearance, its elegance, and its flowing vein patterns. Its signature appearance makes the stone highly recognizable and helps it stand out among its alternatives.
The crystalline nature of marble that forms during its creation results in a distinct appearance with streaks, swirls, and speckles that range from thin and understated to bold and dramatic. Marble is most commonly available in white, cream, and gray. However, marble varieties in bold colors like pink, green, gold, red, orange, and blue also exist.
Carrara Marble is known for its soft gray veining and white background. It has a very classic look and it is probably the design that first comes to mind when marble is mentioned. On the other hand, Calacatta Marble has much bolder veins that bring a distinguished charm to its white base. While these two options are the most popular marble types, there are many more for you to choose from.
Granite typically displays itself in a granular, speckled way. Thanks to its crystalline structure, each granite slab is decorated with gorgeous colors and designs. It offers a wider range of colors compared to marble.
Absolute Black Granite is one of the most popular types of granite. Its pitch-black color might give the perception that it would be hard to style or incorporate into your space. However, the sophistication it adds to the space will prove otherwise. Kashmir White Granite supports a light background adorned with delicate gray and burgundy speckles that will add subtle movement to the space.
Chemical Resistance
The difference in reaction to acidic substances is one of the most significant differences between marble vs granite. Marble is composed primarily of calcium carbonate, which is an ingredient that is highly reactive to acids. Even mild acids like lemon juice, vinegar, or tomato juice can cause etching on the surface of the marble.
The etching shows in the form of a white, dull spot that would need to be buffed off and refinished. This sensitivity makes marble a higher-maintenance option when it is compared to granite. Particularly in kitchen environments, marble countertops can be hard to maintain as contact with acidic substances will be almost unavoidable.
On the other hand, granite is mainly composed of silicate minerals which show much better resistance against acids. This isn’t to say granite is completely indestructible, prolonged contact with acidic substances can cause harm to granite as well. However, as long as you properly seal the granite and wipe any spills, your granite surfaces will be unaffected.
Applications and Uses
Granite offers long-lasting durability, and resistance to heat, scratches, and stains, making it to preferred choice for high-traffic areas like kitchen countertops. It can withstand hot pots and pans, and sharp objects like knives or scissors, it is resistant to acidic substances like lemons and vinegar and it can maintain its beauty and structural integrity even with frequent use. The combination of all of these amazing qualities makes it an ideal option for kitchen renovations.
Although marble is a gorgeous and elegant stone, it requires a bit more care and attention when it is installed in kitchen settings. Its vulnerability to certain common kitchen ingredients and its tendency to scratch make it less ideal.
However, marble has a unique advantage, it has the distinctive ability to stay cool even in hot climates. This makes the stone the preferred material for countertops among bakers because it helps cool down ingredients like chocolate and butter that would otherwise melt, keeping them in a workable state for longer.
While both stones perform amazingly in bathroom settings, one stands out among the two. The elegant appearance of marble makes it a popular choice for bathroom vanities, shower walls, and bathroom flooring. Its slightly transparent quality makes the stone appear as if it is glowing from within, creating a luxurious, spa-like atmosphere. Moreover, its light color palette lightens up the room even more.
Cost Considerations
The cost of both of these materials can vary significantly depending on many factors like its type, rarity, color palette, size, quality, origin, and more. In general, marble tends to have a higher price tag than granite. Although high-end granite can be very costly, it will still be less expensive than premium varieties of marble slabs.
Depending on the type of granite you are interested in, the price can range from $40 to $100 per square foot. When it comes to marble, you can expect to pay somewhere between $50 to $150 per square foot. As mentioned these prices will fluctuate depending on the variety. Moreover, the costs of labor and additional details will hike the price further.
Understanding the differences between marble vs granite will help you prioritize which qualities you value the most and which ones you can live without. The fundamental differences will help you make the best decision and select the material that fits your preferences, lifestyle, needs, and circumstances the best.
