Your kitchen is the heart of your home.
Whether it’s preparing meals, sharing time with families, a late-night raid on the fridge, or any other reason, you’ll spend plenty of your time in this all-important room.
As one of the most frequently used rooms in your house, it’s important to make sure that your kitchen is
functional,
practical, and
stylish. And how can you combine all three of those features together?
Your kitchen benchtop.
When it comes to benchtop materials, granite and marble are two popular options that homeowners often consider. These natural stones are known for their durability, beauty, and timeless appeal. But what are the differences between the two materials, and which one is right for your Perth home?
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between
granite and
marble and help you make an informed decision when choosing the right material for your kitchen benchtop.
Whether you’re renovating your existing kitchen or building a new one from scratch, this guide will provide you with the information you need to make the right choice.
Let’s get right into it!
Granite and Marble: What’s the Difference?
The differences between granite and marble could fill a textbook. But let’s be honest, you’re not here for a geology lesson. You’re here to plan your dream kitchen (and save some money along the way).
Here’s everything you need to know when comparing these popular kitchen benchtop materials.
Stain and Acid Resistance
One of the key differences between granite and marble is their resistance to staining and acids.
Light coloured
Granites and most
Marbles have similar porosities with granite being only slightly less porous than a marble. They will both need a quality sealer in order to help reduce stains and liquids from soaking into your benchtop.
However many
darker granites are often so dense that a sealer is not necessary as it will not soak in. Being less porous, these darker granites are less likely to absorb liquids and stains. Marble and lighter granites are more porous, which means they can be more vulnerable to spills and stains.
Most
granites do not have reactions to light acids such as lemon or vinegar, however
Marbles can etch from acidic spills as they are a calcite based benchtop. You will need to be more careful of such spills on marble, however Granite Warehouse does sell a product called MB Stonecare MB11 Marble Touchup which will help you repolish etch marks on polished marble when such spills occur.
If you’re someone who cooks a lot and tends to be messy in the kitchen, granite might be the better option for you. However, if you’re someone who takes great care in keeping your kitchen clean and tidy, marble can be a beautiful and luxurious choice.
Heat Resistance and Durability
Granite is known for its ability to withstand high temperatures, which makes it a great option for those who love to cook.
Marble can withstand the similar temperatures as granite and is often used for fireplace surrounds because of this.
However the durability of
Marble is significantly less. Marble is a much softer benchtop medium and so will scratch easier than granite from pots and pans being scraped across the surface. Though if you want a slightly tougher marble, then Dolomitic marble would be your best choice.
Granite is a lot harder due to the feldspar and quartz and other dense minerals in its makeup. It will withstand daily use much better and will often still look like new for decades to come.
If you’re someone who is a little rougher in the kitchen, granite might be the better option for you, though you should try not to drop pots onto the surface or smash the edge of any benchtop.
Maintenance and Care
Both granite and marble require regular cleaning and maintenance, but marble requires a bit more care.
Granite can go longer between sealing and is generally easier to clean. Though a good streak free granite cleaner such as MB Stonecare MB5 Stone and More, which is PH neutral will clean the surface whilst being gentle on the sealer so as not to strip it from the granite prematurely.
Marble needs to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and to help reduce the etching of acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar. Though no sealer will stop acidic etching altogether as this is a chemical reaction. Marble will therefore also need regular maintenance to remove acid etch marks on its surface. MB Stonecare MB11 Marble Touchup is a simple product to use to bring your marble back up to its shiny finish.
However, it’s important to note that both materials require professional installation and should be handled with care.
Cost
Granite and marble are not the same when it comes to cost – although there’s more to the story than an upfront price you see online or in a showroom.
Granite is generally less expensive than marble, although the price can vary depending on the quality of the stone and the complexity of the installation.
Marble is often a more expensive option due to its luxurious appearance and the additional care and maintenance it requires, but can add a ‘WOW’ factor that granite simply can’t match.
Style
Both granite and marble have their own unique beauty.
Granite has a speckled or mottled appearance with a range of colours from light to dark. It’s a popular choice for modern kitchens as it has a more unique look.
Marble, on the other hand, has a distinct veining pattern that gives it a more luxurious appearance.
Coming in many types, marble is a popular choice for traditional or classic-style kitchens.
Before You Go… Use Our Guide to Choose the Best Kitchen Benchtop Colour
Choosing the Best Material for Your Kitchen Benchtop
Ultimately, the choice between a
granite benchtop and
marble benchtop comes down to your personal preference and lifestyle.
If you’re someone who loves to cook and needs a benchtop that can withstand high temperatures and spills, granite might be the better choice for you. If you’re looking for a luxurious and timeless option that requires a bit more care and attention, marble might be the way to go.
Regardless of which material you choose, it’s important to work with a professional installer who can help you select the right stone for your kitchen and ensure that it’s properly supported and sealed. With the right care and maintenance, either option can be a beautiful and functional addition to your Perth home.
Marble vs. Granite: The Final Word
When it comes to choosing between granite and marble for your kitchen benchtop, there are several factors to consider, including:
- Durability
- Appearance
- Maintenance
- Cost
- Style
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal preference and lifestyle. Both granite and marble can be beautiful and functional options for your kitchen, so it’s important to take the time to consider all of the factors before making a decision.
With the right care and maintenance, either option can be a beautiful and functional addition to your Perth home.
And if you need help making a decision, don’t hesitate to consult with a member of the Granite Warehouse team for guidance and advice.
Granite Warehouse Is a Cut Above the Rest
Whatever product you decide is best for your project, Granite Warehouse can help you find the right material to suit your needs.
With
over 40 years of experience and
over 200 stones, you’re sure to find a product that fits seamlessly into your kitchen’s design and your lifestyle.
Plus, our cost effective business model means you pay less with our highly competitive rates, so browse our wide range of products today or contact us on
08 9209 2620 to speak to a member of our team!
P.S Check out our product gallery for more inspo!
If you want to learn more about stone benchtops, check out our other resources:
