Marble countertops versus Granite. What is the difference? Which is more suitable for my kitchen? What should I use for my bathroom?

Many homeowners speak about having “marble-tops” to their kitchen; without knowing the differences between marble and granite. The purpose of this article is to highlight the properties and uses of marble and granite in counter-tops, wall cladding and flooring, and to ensure that you choose the right product for the job. While engineered stone is an extremely popular alternative, we are limiting our discussion in this article to marble and granite. We will write a separate article on engineered stone.

Granite is volcanic rock, and is therefore extremely hard and durable. Its crystalline structure is far more resistant to abrasions, staining and discoloration than marble. It is generally used far more widely for kitchen countertops than marble. It is also suitable to be used as tiles and wall-cladding in high traffic areas. Lighter-coloured granite may be somewhat porous, but can be sealed to prevent moisture penetration. This is achieved with a liquid silicon-sealer, which draws into the microscopic gaps between the stone particles, thus inhibiting moisture and stain penetration. Feel free to review our current granite slabs in stock at http://ske.co.za/current-slabs. We also source some granite from local wholesalers. If you don’t find a suitable granite in our range, feel free to contact Morne’ Mostert or Melvin Stober from our office on +27 21 907 1680 in order to arrange slab viewing at one of our preferred wholesalers. We are able to provide various finishes to granite, including polished, honed, leathered, flamed, or antiqued. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.Currently (August 2015) an antique or leathered finish is proving popular.

 

Marble is calcified limestone, and its polished surface is susceptible to deterioration by the acidic action of some detergents and acidity content such as that which is contained in lemon juice. Red wine and oil will also stain marbles.  Marble is generally used in bathrooms for countertops, wall cladding and flooring. It is softer than granite, and can scratch more easily. However; there is a recent swing back to using marble in kitchens, and accepting scratches and stains as a contribution to the “character” of the kitchen. Some Italian residences that are hundreds of years old have traditional marble countertops, and obviously have staining and scratching. The stone’s natural patina (the colour change that occurs over time) enhances rather than diminishes the antique character and beauty of the kitchen and home. If marble is used in your kitchen, any stain should be wiped up immediately with a warm soapy cloth to prevent obvious staining.

Marble is not always installed with a polished finish, and it is possible to hone or acid-wash the upper surface. A honed finish simply involves the removal of the smooth polished finish with polishing blocks, while an acid-washed finish will leave a slightly textured upper surface. View our marble stock on http://ske.co.za/current-slabs or contact us for assistance.

LARGER PROJECTS: We are able to source virtually any marble or granite for your project, and with about a six-week lead time, can specifically source material for your project at extremely competitive pricing from around the world.

Neville Owen is the Founder and General Manager of Sangengalo Marble and Granite, which itself is a founder member of the Kitchen Specialist Association of South Africa Stone and Surface Fabricators Forum (established in 2014). Neville serves on the KSA Stone & Surface Fabricators Forum Committee with the portfolio of Industry Standards. He also serves on the KSA SA Western Cape Committee. Feel free to contact Neville on 082 454 2404 or neville@ske.co.za for your residential or commercial project requirements.