How is Marble different from Granite
Everyone seems to have a preference for one or the other regarding marble or granite. Marble has the distinctive veining that makes it much different visually than its counterpart. Granite has a distinctive look too, and it comes in many colors and hue variations. There are some variances that make the use of one or the other more appealing in certain applications.
Granite ranks as one of the hardest materials found naturally on earth, and it comprises much of the rock formation all over the world.
Granite Applications
Granite is used most often for kitchen countertops when natural stone is desired. The reason why is quite simple; it resists stains, heat, acids, and scratches. Most of the situations that occur in a kitchen environment are of no consequence to granite.
It guards against acids in fruits, heat from hot pans, cuts of knife blades, and the penetration of most chemicals. Although it is not impenetrable, it presents about the best countertop choice that can be made when considering its resistance and durability.
When comparing marble and other natural stone to granite, most authorities agree that granite is the better choice for use outside, marble will become scratched and stained so much easier. This hasn’t detracted from the use of marble by architects in historic building exteriors though.
While granite is a primary choice for kitchen countertops, some people prefer different materials for the flooring in the same room. It is quite complimentary to stay with granite on the floors too, using a honed finish instead of the buffed and shiny one on the countertops. Because of the possible range of colors, the floor appearance can still be very different from the look on the counters.
Marble Applications
Marble is often considered to be the more beautiful natural stone, and it is seen more often in baths than in kitchens. It is more susceptible to staining from vinegar, tomatoes, lemons, wine, and some cleaners than granite is. Mildew removers and other chemicals can dull the finish and give marble a hazy appearance.
In bathrooms marble holds up very well with a moderate amount of care. Sealing as necessary generally provides enough protection from most of the elements that harm its surface as long as proper rules of use are maintained.
Marble is a popular flooring material because of it beauty and adaptability to fit in with just about any type décor or color scheme. The colors marble is found in are perfect for the interior decorator because they are not obtrusive no matter what direction the designer might choose to go. Marble can serve as the focal point of a room or fade into the background, depending on the designer’s preference.
For tub and shower surrounds, it is hard to beat marble for beauty and elegance. Choosing the proper cleaners and making sure that the marble is sealed once or twice a year is all that is needed to keep the marble looking great for many years.
Choosing Between Marble and Granite
There is no reason to assume that marble can only go in certain places and granite must go in others. Aside from the fact that marble is more susceptible to certain conditions than granite, people use both materials in similar applications.
Either provides a great looking finish for whatever application it is used in, and both are more durable than most other materials. Whether marble is your favorite or granite is the top choice, both add beauty and value to any property where they are used.
