Natural stone countertops are strong, beautiful and a timeless accent to your home. For a beautiful statement in your home, consider choosing between a granite and marble slab in GTA homes. If you cannot decide between a granite and marble slab for your countertop, it may be helpful to consider the future care and maintenance requirements before making a final decision.

 

 

Many homeowners are choosing granite for their countertops because granite is a long lasting surface that will add value and beauty to the home. Granite is an affordable natural stone that is readily available. It is a strong and durable material that is scratch, heat and stain resistant.

 

 

Granite countertops are easy to clean and maintain. While granite countertops are strong and durable, regular care is needed to maintain the beauty of the surface. Here are some tips to keep your granite countertops looking their best:

• Dust surfaces of countertop frequently
• Blot up spills immediately
• Clean countertop surfaces with water and a soft cloth
• Avoid cleaning with acidic, abrasive or harsh cleaners such as vinegar, lemon, bleach or ammonia.
• Never use steel wool on your granite countertops
• Granite countertops are heat resistant, but you should still use pot holders under hot items since they can still leave a mark
• Granite countertops are very strong, but you should still use a cutting board to avoid scratches
• Your granite countertop may need periodic resealing every six months or at least once a year

Marble Countertops

 

Available in a spectrum of colours, marble is often chosen by homeowners for its beauty. Marble is a wonderful natural stone with a very nice finish. This makes it a beautiful choice for kitchen countertops, but marble is a more porous, softer and chemically sensitive natural stone than granite.

 

 

Marble countertops can be damaged over time after wear and tear. There are some very simple tips for cleaning marble that you should follow to keep your marble countertops looking bright and shiny.

• Citrus juices, coffee or alcohol will etch or dull the marble surface. Avoid ring marks by always using coasters
• Protect your marble countertops by using mats under hot dishes and placemats under china and silverware that can scratch the surface of the countertop
• Wipe spills immediately to minimize damage to your stone
• Clean marble surfaces with marble soap or a mild dish soap with warm water. Thoroughly rinse and dry marble countertops after washing
• Do not use vinegar, lemon juice or tile cleaners on marble surfaces, as they will dull the natural stone
• Marble stone, regardless of the finish, is still porous and susceptible to dirt penetrating the surface and staining. Re-sealing marble, especially light coloured marble every three to six months is a good idea.

Considering the future care and maintenance of a granite and marble slab in the GTA will hopefully help you choose between the two natural stones for your countertop. Whether you choose granite or marble, your countertops will add an elegant, timeless accent to your home.