Granite vs. Marble: Which Countertop Material Rocks?
Countertops are an essential element of any kitchen. Not only do they provide the working area for meal preps and cooking, but they also play a crucial role in the room’s overall aesthetics. Granite and marble are two of the most popular countertop materials here in the Philippines. Both are known for their natural beauty and extensive functionality. But which one is better? And, more importantly, which one works best for your home? Let’s compare:
| Granite | Marble | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | ||
| Range of Colors | ∞ | ∞ |
| Overall Pattern | Unique | Unique |
| Visibility of Seam | Inconspicuous | Inconspicuous |
| Durability | ||
| Resists Scratches | Yes | No |
| Resists Heat | Yes | Yes |
| Resists Stains | Some, but not all | No |
| Resists Sudden Impact | Yes | No |
| Resists Chemicals | No | No |
| Upkeep | ||
| Easy to Maintain | Yes | No |
| Requires Sealing | Some, but not all | Yes |
| Cost | Moderate | Expensive |
Appearance
Granite and marble are known for their unique and natural beauty. They offer an elegant, timeless look that works well in any kitchen style. Both are available in a wide range of color and pattern combinations, making it easy to find suitable slabs that complement your space. In addition, they can be polished—if you want a high-gloss counter—or honed—if you prefer something matte and laidback.
Both materials are quarried deep within the earth. They have inherent traits that make each slab one-of-a-kind. As genuine stones, they have natural imperfections, like specks, pits, and fissures, that add to their unique and refined beauty.
Despite their similarities, granites and marbles have several differences as well. Both are natural materials with distinct visual characteristics that set them apart. Granite has a speckled appearance, with colors ranging from white, black, pink, green, and blue. Its overall look is typically busy, with much variation and movement throughout its surface.
Marble, on the other hand, has a more subdued, elegant appearance. It’s known for its soft veins and swirling patterns, thanks to the calcite crystals and colored grains of mica inclusions that form the stone. Available in various colors, from white and cream to black, gray, and green, it has an overall appearance that is usually more subtle and sophisticated than in granite.
Curious to know how much will your counter cost?
Durability
When it comes to durability, both granite and marble are solid and enduring materials. However, the former is generally considered more durable than the latter. Granite is harder and denser, making it less likely to chip or scratch. It is also more resistant to heat and stains, making it the more practical choice for busy households.
Conversely, marble is softer, making it susceptible to chipping and scratching. It is also prone to staining and etching, especially when left unsealed. As such, it can dull or discolor when you leave spills or drips overnight. So always clean as you go.
Cost
The cost of granite and marble countertops can vary widely depending on the stone’s quality, the countertop’s size, and the installation‘s complexity.
In general, marble is more expensive than granite. In the Philippines, a marble slab costs around Php 8,000 per sqm., while granite starts at Php 1,800 per sqm.
Should you need an estimate for the cost of your granite or marble countertop, feel free to drop us a message. We’ll get back to you within the next 24 hours.
We can choose to throw stones, to stumble on them, to climb over them, or to build with them.
Maintenance
Both countertop materials require some level of maintenance to keep them looking their best. However, granite is generally easier to clean and maintain than marble because it’s denser. You only need a soft, clean cloth and a stone cleaner to keep your countertop looking great. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, which can damage the granite’s surface. Some granites, especially light-colored ones, must be sealed yearly to protect them from staining.
Marble, on the other hand, requires a bit more care. It is very porous, which makes it susceptible to staining. Hence, you must wipe up spills and drips immediately to prevent any discoloration. Furthermore, you must seal it regularly (or as needed) to protect it from staining. What’s more, you need to keep it away from acidic substances, like vinegar and lemon juice, to prevent etching.
For an in-depth cleaning and care guide, feel free to click any of the two links below:
Conclusion
Ultimately, granite and marble are stunning countertop materials that bring natural beauty and limitless functionality to your home. While granite is considered practical and more durable, marble offers elegance and sophistication that no other material can match.
However, keep in mind that both stones require some level of maintenance to keep them looking new. If you don’t think you can handle the upkeep they need, consider using engineered quartz instead.
Before you decide between granite and marble, consider your preference, lifestyle, and budget. From there, weigh the pros and cons of each material and determine which one works best for you.
Drop by your nearest Stone Depot branch and check out our wide range of granite and marble selections. We offer high-quality countertop materials at the most competitive price. Visit us in Cebu, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and Iloilo City today!
Here's How to Order:
Get Your Quote
Visit our slab yard and get your free quote while you wait. Or better yet, request it with ease using our online form by clicking here.
Inspect Your Slab
Check out our broad selection of granite, marble, and quartz slabs and secure the ones that you like best for your kitchen counter.
Pay Your Order
You may settle in cash, cheque, credit card, debit card, bank deposit, online bank transfer, or Paypal—whichever is the most convenient for you.
Expect Our Visit
We'll inspect and get the actual measurements on-site. Then, we'll fabricate the slabs at our shop to minimize the dust and noise in your area.
Get Your Counter
Your countertop will be delivered and installed on schedule. This usually takes around two to three days, depending on the scope of work.