Natural stone is an asset to any house. A marble or granite surface can define a room and add value to your home. If you are renovating and considering whether to use marble or granite, there are few things you should know about these beautiful natural stones. Here is a guide to buying affordable granite and marble slab in the GTA.

 

 

If you are looking at marble or granite for a kitchen or bathroom countertop, both have many advantages. They are both naturally beautiful, with a wide variety of tones and patterns based on their source and composition. With proper care, natural stone will last for many years.

 

 

Granite is formed deep below the earth’s surface from slowly molten rock. Its composition of various minerals defines its design. Some slabs of granite are colourful with dramatic sweeping veins, while others have a more uniform traditional look made up of flecks of crystals. Because of its durability and ease of care, granite is one of the most popular choices for a kitchen countertop. Colours can range from:

• amber
• lavender
• greens
• white, grey and beige
• red
• blues
• black

Although granite is resistant to heating and chipping, it is still wise to use caution. Martha Stewart recommends using cutting boards and trivets, avoiding using ammonia-based cleaners and cleaning up spills immediately.

 

 

Marble is actually limestone that has metamorphosed into a mosaic of carbonate crystals. It has a softer, luxurious look with distinctive veining. It can come in creamy hues of white, salmon, pink and green. Although very durable, marble is more porous than granite, so it may require a bit more care, as it can stain more easily. You can clean marble surfaces with just water or a mild detergent. It should be sealed, but sealant can change the colour, so ask a natural stone expert for advice. Marble gives an elegant look to a room and works well for pastry surfaces, vanity tops, and around tubs and fireplaces.

 

 

Source your affordable marble and granite from a reputable company that specializes in natural stone.  You will want to see a showroom that has a variety of large samples to initially select the colour and hue you are looking for. However, before buying a piece, make sure you see the actual slab you will be purchasing. When dealing with natural stone, no two pieces are the same, so it’s important to look at the whole slab, and not just a section. The sample piece will most likely be part of a bigger slab that has already been sold.

 

 

Once you have selected your slab of marble or granite, you will want to find a fabricator that specializes in working with natural stone. Working from a template, fabricators cut the stone with a computerized milling machine, finish the edges and install the finished slab.

 

Both marble and granite are beautiful natural stones that are extremely durable. Each has a variety of colours and designs, from the dramatic to the softly elegant. While marble may take a little more care, both are easy to maintain.  Searching out affordable granite and marble slab in the GTA is like finding a favourite piece of art.