Initial Cost and Installation
The first and an important item that is very much related when judging kitchen countertops cost of those, are the kitchen countertop initial cost. On average, granite countertops are usually far less expensive at about $40 to $60 per square foot which includes installation and depends on the quality and rarity of the stone. Marble, on the other hand, generally begins at a base price of around $50-$100 per sq. ft. The explanation for this difference is that marble is considered an expensive stone and different high-quality species are quite hard to find. The installation costs of the two materials are about the same, although the cost can vary depending on where you are and how difficult the job is.
Durability & Maintenance Needed
Granite is the stronger and more durable stone, and therefore more suitable for most active kitchens. From scratch, chip, and stain resistance granite is stronger and less porous than marble, the softer, porous structure of marble means it will absorb stains and scratches quickly. This makes granite an excellent choice for families or anyone that puts their kitchen to heavy use. Marble: Marble is prone to etching and staining, especially from acidic substances like vinegar and lemon juice, so it requires more frequent sealing and care than granite.
Aesthetic Variety and Appeal
Marble is a popular choice here, used for its beauty (the veining of marble is the stuff that decorators dreams are made of) and for the luxury it adds to a space. Granite, while popular, does not have the same streaky patterning as some of the most sought after marble varieties (think: Carrara and Calacatta). Granite, however, is available in more colors and patterns, and they can range from soft and subdued natural tones to bright and wild exaggerated patterns. Ultimately, the decision to use marble versus granite is a matter of personal taste and style in the kitchen.
Resistant to Heat and Safe for Food
Heat resistant: Granite countertops are one of the best option when you want a surface to withstand the heat of a pot or pan right after you take it off the stove or oven. Like quartz, marble is also heat-resistant; however, it may discolor due to heat with time. It is safe for food preparation, when properly sealed, and both materials are safe, granite with the slight edge in bacteria resistance due to its low porosity.
Resale Value and Longevity
Granite Marble Cost $2k+ $2k+ Resale Value $1.00 $1.00 Home Resale Value 1% + 2% + Granite, however, usually gets the edge in terms of the quality of the material used, and this, in turn, equals a longer-lasting product, which either keeps you from having to replace your countertops as often or repair them. That could make this a more appealing proposition for potential buyers seeking a further pinch of both form and function.
Check out our comprehensive colores de marmol para cocinas material reviews for more on those and how they stack up to some of the other stone countertops in our side-by-side.
As with many countertop materials, whether you choose marble or granite countertops comes down to a broad range of factors such as budget, how you use your kitchen, which look you prefer, and what you want out of your investment. Worth it for all those busy chefs, granite provides a higher level of durability and less maintenance than most other materials. The characteristic veins of marble provide an unbeatable aesthetic and a luxurious appearance, but it can also contribute to the need for a little more TLC – making it a durable, high-end choice that requires a bit of an aesthetic eye and maintenance investment. At the end of the day, the choice will be made based on the home owner’s values and the kitchen’s purpose.