Granite VS Marble
18 Apr 2014
It is usually easy to distinguish marble and granite based on the physical
appearance of the rocks. Granite usually consists of many different colors
because it is composed of crystals of different colors. Marble, on the
other hand, is usually one solid color with some veining patterns. While
granite is available in a large variety of colors and patterns, marble
offers a smaller variety of light colors. Granite slabs are usually larger
in size because granite is a harder, stronger rock compared with marble.
The hardness of granite also leads to a shiny, glossy appearance, which
marble lacks.
Because of these properties, granite can be used in kitchen counter tops
and on floors, while marble is ideal for less trafficked areas of the home
like bathrooms, where it can be used for vanities, tub decks, shower walls
and flooring. Marble can create a light and unique look, and can be good
for surfaces that will not get much use, or for people who are willing to
put in the maintenance work and want their surfaces to have a bit of
character.
Since granite and marble are both porous (lighter stones are more porous
than darker stones), they absorb liquids from spills. It is recommended to
use sealants on both marble and granite to prevent staining. For marble
surfaces, resealing is recommended twice a year while for granite
resealing is recommended once every two years (the frequency of resealing
depends upon how heavily the surface is used).
Removing stains on marble can be lifted by applying a poultice or stain
remover.