When it comes to upgrading your home, selecting the right natural stone for your countertops can be a challenged.  Each type of natural stones has its own set of advantages. To help you with your decision, we have prepared this product review of granite countertops and marble countertops.

Granite Countertops

Although granite and marble were created deep within the earth millions of years ago, the processes that formed them were quite different. Granite is an igneous rock, which means that at one time during its development, it was melted like volcanic lava. Unlike lava, however, this melted rock never reached the surface. It remained trapped inside the earth, where it slowly cooled and crystallized.

Characteristics Of Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are strikingly beautiful, functional and the most durable of all natural stones. They range in color from black and gray tones to pinks, browns, reds, greens and white. Granite countertops are ideal for kitchen tops, accent islands, bar tops, everyday dining tables, and many other uses.

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Granite countertops  are highly durable. You can expect your granite countertops to last you a lifetime. They are nearly impossible to scratch and will not stain under normal use and will clean up after use. Because granite is one of the hardest natural stones, cutting boards are recommended when slicing bread, meats and vegetables to protect cutlery knives from becoming dull.

Caring For Granite Countertops

Granite surfaces have low porosity and are easy to maintain and care for and require only a few special precautions. Granite countertops are easily cleaned with warm water, mild dish washing liquid and a soft cloth.

Granite countertops are extremely durable and stain-resistant.  Hot pots and pans won’t damage granite surfaces. They won’t chip, crack or scratch under normal use. They do not harbor bacteria because of their low porosity and are resistant to coffee, tea, alcohol and wine stains.

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Marble Countertops

Marble is a metamorphic rock. It was once limestone, but over time, the combination of intense heat and pressure caused the limestone to re-crystallized. Foreign substances often entered the stone during this process, creating an infinite variety of colors, textures and veining. Marble is a lot like people – no two are exactly alike.

Characteristics Of Marble Countertops

Marble is the most elegant and luxurious of stones. Marble countertops come in many different colors, textures and veining making each piece unique. Marble countertops are guaranteed to make an impression in your home. Marble is versatile enough for use throughout the home such as fireplace facings, ornamental furnishing, walls and window sills. Marble shines best in the bath. You can use it on almost every surface including vanities, showers walls, tub decks and flooring.

 

Caring For Marble Countertops

Marble countertops require more upkeep than granite countertops. Marble countertops have a softer, less stain-resistant surface than granite and should be treated like a fine piece of wood. Spills should be wiped up immediately. Coasters should be placed under beverage glasses to avoid staining and etching. Marble countertops are especially susceptible to damage from citric acids, alcohol and oils because marble surfaces are somewhat porous.

Product Review Conclusion

Granite countertops are more durable and require less maintenance than marble countertops. If you don’t want to invest much time in upkeep and care, granite countertops are the best option for your home.  However,with minimal care and maintenance, marble countertops offer more color versatility, unique texturing and veining that granite countertops. If you want your countertops to be the focal point of interest in your kitchen or baths, marble countertops are the best option.