Granite and marble are two types of natural stone that never go out of style and can be used in both construction and decoration.
Even though they are similar in some ways, they are also different in terms of hardness and finishes.
Below, we talk about marble and granite, their differences and their main applications.
What is marble?
In geological terms, marble is a metamorphic rock composed of carbonate materials formed when the limestone that covers the earth’s crust is subjected to high temperatures and high pressure.
This causes the stone to undergo a ‘metamorphosis’ in which the calcite crystallises into small pieces that change its structure.
As the metamorphosis progresses, the crystals become larger and interlock.
From a constructive point of view, marble is the most elegant and luxurious natural stone.
Used since antiquity, it is also the most versatile as a wall and floor covering or as a decorative element.
In addition to its veining, marble is characterised by its wide chromatic palette, which includes monochromatic and polychromatic varieties ranging from the most neutral tones (white, grey or black) to more striking colours such as green, brown, yellow or red.
What is granite?
Granite is a granular, incandescent rock that has a very rough texture and is formed by the crystallisation of magma present beneath the earth’s surface.
It is composed mainly of quartz and feldspar, its granularity is rough and it is usually light coloured.
Granite has many uses in interior and exterior construction, and is commonly found as paving in public spaces or in floor tiles.
→ Check these ideas on how to choose the best natural stone flooring
Granite vs. marble: 5 differences
Aesthetics and appearance
Both granite and marble are natural materials of great beauty.
In addition, their composition allows each of their pieces to be practically unique.
The main difference between granite and marble at an aesthetic level is that granite has a “freckled” appearance, as it is full of small stones (feldspar, mica and amphibole).
Marble, on the other hand, is much cleaner and smoother, and its veins, normally elongated and regular, draw wavy lines on the stone with many combination possibilities.
Moreover, the colour palette of marble is much more varied than that of granite.
Uses and applications
Although both are very versatile in decoration and interior design, granite and marble are used in different ways due to their mechanical properties.
While marble is a reference material for cladding and flooring, granite is mostly used for kitchen and bathroom countertops.
Another difference between these two materials is that granite can be used on floors with high foot traffic, while marble is usually restricted to areas with less traffic.
Lastly, both materials bring elegance to rooms, although marble offers a sophisticated and exclusive air that fits both in the most classic designs and in the most avant-garde environments.
Durability and hardness
Granite is harder and stronger than marble.
It is more resistant to heat and to possible damage or scratches and, for this reason, it is usually used in kitchen worktops or in bathrooms.
On the other hand, granite keeps its natural shine longer than marble, which needs to be polished periodically.
Maintenance
When choosing a building material, it is important to know how to maintain it.
Both marble and granite are quite easy to maintain, although, as they are natural stones, sealants must be used to prevent stains and marks.
Normally, marble needs to be sealed more frequently, while granite can be sealed every two years, although it depends on how heavy the surface is and how regularly the stone is cleaned.
On the other hand, marble is a more delicate material, and special chemical-free cleaning products must be used to avoid damaging its natural shine.
Price
This is one of the most common questions when someone considers including granite or marble in their project.
Both materials must be installed by professionals.
Regarding their cost, marble and granite have somewhat different prices, with the former usually being cheaper than the latter.
In any case, their total cost will depend on the quality of the stone, the style of the tiles or pieces, and the complexity of the installation work.
Granite or marble – which is better for a home?
Both marble and granite are natural stones and have their own qualities and properties.
Therefore, choosing one over the other will basically depend on the type of project and your budget.
If you are looking for a quality material with a more luxurious finish for your home, we recommend marble.
Although it may be more expensive and require more maintenance, marble tiles have a more beautiful and versatile design in terms of shapes and veining, and their finishes are more elegant.
Furthermore, if it is broken or damaged, it can be repaired in most cases.
At L’Antic Colonial we have developed marble floorings that incorporate the most traditional concepts of this material in cosmopolitan and modern spaces thanks to our BALCAN series; as well as other novelties such as GOLDEN WHITE and/or IVORY….We invite you to discover our marble and natural stone floors on our website
