Choosing between granite and marble slabs for your Toronto renovation project? Be sure to find out the differences so you can decide which is the best option for you.

 

 

Granite and marble are often mentioned as two of the most prestigious materials for renovations. They are far from interchangeable though; each was created in a different way and they have very different looks.

 

Granite is a hard rock, formed deep in the earth at high temperatures. Granite looks grainy. It comes in a variety of colours, with the different patterns and graininess combining to give granite depth.

 

Marble started as sediment—such as skeletons, plants, and shells—which turned to stone over millions of years. Most marble types are rarer than granite and tend to be more expensive. Marble is a soft stone that can be stained or scratched easily. Marble patterns and colours vary by type. It can be finely veined or have big, bold patterns.

 

 

Granite needs to be sealed every two years, but, once sealed, it is stain-resistant. Since it’s non-porous, it’s a sanitary surface as germs no longer sink into the stone.

 

Granite slabs are extremely hard and resistant to marks and scratches. If you use granite as a cutting board, it can actually dull your knife. It can also endure heat without scarring, although you shouldn’t put hot pots directly on it.

 

A great advantage of granite is that it never fades. The colour you select today will still be as vibrant as the decades go by.

 

Since it’s so dense, granite can be hard to cut without chipping, a factor to consider when cutting it into shape.

 

 

Although other stones and manmade materials may try, nothing quite matches the elegant, unparalleled beauty of marble. No one will ever mistake your marble for another type of stone. It’s distinct and can add great value to your home, especially if you use a rarer type of marble.

 

Since marble is a soft stone, your fabricator may be able to do more with it. You may be able to order sophisticated edging or fit it in a non-standard area.

 

Marble is also naturally cool. It’s not a heat conductor, so if you place racks on the countertop for baking, it won’t heat the counter.

 

Since marble is porous, it stains easily. You’ll have to put more work into sealing your marble and keeping it clean. If acidic liquids or foods, like soda or orange juice, spill on the surface, they may leave etching and pits in their wake. Marble should be resealed at least once a year. If you’re in the kitchen a lot and there’s noticeable wear and tear on the counter, you may want to reseal it more often. Once a stain sets in marble, it’s probably not going to come out.

 

Choosing Between Granite and Marble Slabs in Toronto can be hard, but both granite and marble slabs are beautiful choices for countertops, mantels, floors, tiles, and fireplaces. They’re both used inside the house and on the outside as well. When you add granite and marble slabs to your renovation project, you can drastically increase the value of your home in the Toronto market.