Why is Granite preferred over Marble for kitchen counter tops?

Answer 1

Granite is harder and more durable. Marble is porous and will stain easier. Marble is normally used in statues that are kept inside churches, art museums etc.

Answer 2

Granite is an igneous rock. It is made directly from molten lava, and therefore is very hard, very solid, and very chemically inert.

Marble is a metamorphic rock. First the shells of thousands of dead animals fall to the bottom of the ocean and form limestone. Then the limestone is compacted and heated near the magma of the earth, and that forms marble. Marble is therefore made of calcium carbonate. Marble tends to be somewhat softer, somewhat porous, and somewhat chemically reactive. Marble can eventually dissolve into lime if exposed to acids, such as vinegar, citrus juices, kitchen cleaners, etc. Obviously, the counter won't develop a gaping hole if you splash a little something on it, but it might loose it's finish if you let the stuff sit there too long, and since it is porous, things can also seep down, and stain deeper in the counter.

Personally, I prefer plastic materials for my kitchen counters. Marble and granite belong in the yard, as statuary.

Answer 3

Without offense to any others...Aesthetics is a personal choice.

Granite is more dense (Harder) more durable, than marble, and usually cut thicker. Marble is a beautiful "stone" and may have a larger variety of colors and patterns, but it's also more expensive in the long term, and more fragile than granite. Both are Trendy though.

I personally prefer composites such as "Corian"

Steven Wolf

Answer 4

Granite is a great surface for kitchens. You can cut right on it without ruining the material (the knives will actually get dull). You can also place hot pots and pans right on the granite without hunting around for potholders. Also it is very low maintenance. Once a week I make up a sink of soapy water and give it a good wipe down, that it is. It should be sealed when it is first installed and that will last for years. I have had it in my kitchen for 3 years and would not choose another product over it.

Answer 5

granite is slightly more durable, but marble is a classic, and is more fashionable again

Answer 6

I like marble better because there is more of a color range.

Answer 7

I saw a concrete counter which was beautiful!!! The best part is that you can have ANY color/hue that you want to match whatever!!!!! I know it sounds strange, but do a search on it.