Marble vs Granite: Which Is Better For Bathrooms And Kitchens?

Marble vs granite has become an increasingly popular comparison as kitchen and bathroom countertop materials in the Philippines over the last decade. Property owners have been increasingly curious about the distinctions between these two natural stones. Since they are natural stones, as opposed to artificial quartz Silestone, marble and granite surfaces are prone to typical chipping and discoloration. However, granite is more resistant to staining and scratches than marble. As a result, architects often recommend granite in kitchens, but marble is more prevalent in other areas, such as bathrooms.

What are Marble and Granite?

Both marble and granite are natural building materials. Mining and excavation operations are often carried out in quarries to obtain these natural resources. While marble and granite may appear identical, they each have unique qualities.

Marble is a sedimentary rock, a limestone that has changed its crystalline structure due to extreme heat and pressure. It is often veined and formed of calcareous stones. This type of stone is mainly composed of calcium carbonate, which is sensitive to acids such as cleaning agents and certain fruit juices.

Meanwhile, granite is an igneous rock formed when magma melts and cools deep within the earth. It is typically siliceous stones and has a granular and flecked look. The composition of this stone is primarily silica or quartz-like particles that are highly robust and durable.

When it comes to marble vs granite, to start off, they are both substantial, heat-resistant, enduring, and come in various patterns and hues. Because these materials were produced millions of years ago on the earth, their shades and designs may vary significantly depending on the mined location. Both are stain-prone and hence require sealing, preferably once a year.

Marble As Building Material

History may find the flexibility of marble as a building material in structures dating back to Ancient Rome. It is suitable for usage as structural members, stair treads, monuments, sculptures, aggregates, and coloring.

Designers preferably assign marble in areas with low traffic, such as bathrooms and shower walls, floors, tub decks, and vanities. The location’s assignment is less likely to cause damage to the material by constant wear. When properly maintained and cared for, marble lends a light and unique appearance to any place. It can uplift the qualities of grand staircases, panels, and interior wall finishes in projects that demand luxurious appeal.

Granite As Building Material

Builders have been employing granite in construction and infrastructure for thousands of years in bridge construction, buildings, pavements, and sculptures due to its versatility in manufacturing decorative stones and architectural stones, among other pursuits.

Typically utilized in kitchens and workstations as solid slab counters, granite can also function as a masonry material. Additionally, various varieties of granite, such as crushed granite, are exploited in constructing roads and highways as subbase and base material. Other uses for granite include tiling, pavement, and curbing.

The Differences Between Marble and Granite

Marble vs granite has advantages and disadvantages when utilized as construction materials in modern architecture house designs. It is prudent to do a comprehensive examination of the feasibility of the chosen construction material, taking into account its intended usage and any potential concerns. Marble and granite are inspiring, aesthetically beautiful, and timeless building materials, yet they have certain drawbacks. The primary disadvantage is that they are more expensive than other varieties of stone available on the market. Additionally, granite is difficult to quarry, limiting its supply in some places. To determine which building material is superior, consider marble and granite’s cost, sustainability, durability, ease of care, and beauty.

Marble vs. Granite Price Differences In The Philippine Market

Marble is more costly than granite. A standard eighteen-millimeter (18 mm) thick granite countertop slab has a price range of Php 2,000 to Php 8,000 per piece in the Philippines. Marble has a refined and beautiful appearance and may cost anywhere from Php 5,000 to Php 50,000 for the same 18mm thick slab. The cost per square meter of marble and granite varies according to hue and vein. Numerous variables influence these costs. These characteristics include the stone’s origin, grade, thickness, and dimension. Additionally, like with any other commodity, supply and demand affect prices. These criteria take into account solely the cost of the materials.

Bear in mind that manufacturing and installation will incur additional costs. A local provider will charge according to the complexities of the project. As a result, anticipate paying a bit extra for countertops featuring decorative trimmings or several openings for the sink or electrical outlets. Installation of marble or granite needs craftsmanship, knowledge, experience, and a few specialized tools.

Marble vs. Granite Characteristics and Maintenance

Marble and granite are both natural stones that are recyclable and recyclable. While natural stones used in buildings are durable, they require protection from weathering and deformation caused by natural causes and human activity. Both marble and granite absorb liquids from spills, making lighter-colored stones more porous. To keep these stones in good condition, repair and reseal the materials regularly to prevent weathering, staining, and etching.

Marble is more prone to acid, scratches, and heat than granite, necessitating more significant upkeep. The high water absorption rate is a substantial danger of damage when exposed to elements. However, when cleaning marble surfaces, use only a tiny amount of soap to discourage leaving a film behind. Therefore, the recommendation is to reseal marble twice a year to preserve it from degradation. 

Granite is exceptionally flexible and easy to maintain. It is suitable for blending in with concrete, pathways, landscaping, and reinstallation. Granite is more resistant to scratches and chipping than marble. Additionally, it is thermally stable and has a low water absorption rate. Special sealants applied on granite every few years effectively protect it from long-term use and chemical reactions. Additionally, granite requires only minimal soapy water for cleaning, posing the slightest risk to the material.

The Aesthetics Of Marble vs. Granite 

Due to their similarities, an inexperienced eye may confuse marble with granite. Both stones, however, are aesthetically unique due to their patterns and range of colors. It is prudent to examine the style and tint of these stones while crafting with them.

Granite is a coarse-grained stone with flecks on the surface that comes in various textures and colors. The colors vary from a fine-grained uniformity to strong contrasts and variances. Additionally, the diversity in finish types like polished, honed, natural, and textured slabs, adds to granite’s innate beauty.

Marble has more prominent veins than granite and a more uniform color palette. The calcite’s low refractive index displays a very distinctive brilliance enjoyed in the luxury location of both public and private places. Additionally, finishes such as polished, smooth, and various others bring out the colors and unique textures of marble.

Marble vs. Granite: Which One Is Better?

Marble and granite are two of the better common materials for architectural countertops and interior finishes. Both are visually appealing, but they differ in cost, durability, and sustainability. Marble is a more costly and delicate material. Marble is likewise porous and does not resist water damage as well as granite. In contrast to marble, granite is more resistant to moisture and does not require sealing or polishing. This characteristic results in granite being less costly than marble and being a robust material that requires less care. Marble vs granite each has distinct qualities that set them apart. An architect must evaluate both stone materials’ various advantages and disadvantages while integrating them expertly into any design.

Stories   Portfolio   Careers   About   Contact