What is Better? Granite or Marble Slabs for Your Toronto Home

The following is an article about granite and marble slabs and what is better for your Toronto home. Read more about how each type of natural stone can transform the appearance, utility, and durability of your favourite living spaces today.
 
Countertops made of granite and marble slabs have been a staple in Toronto homes and condos for many years. Countertops and islands are often the central focus of any kitchen. Choosing the right surface for your kitchen can increase the utility, beauty, and longevity of your home. Whether you’re going for a classic or contemporary look, natural stone is an elegant solution for nearly any space. Your choice of stone will affect the appearance, durability, and amount of maintenance you will have to perform to preserve your surface. Natural stone can be incorporated in the design of your home in many different ways. In addition to countertops and islands, natural stone can be used for flooring, backsplashes, and fireplace surrounds. These elements can add to the value and longevity of your home. Natural stone surfaces are known to last over 30 years with proper maintenance and care. Many homeowners who are remodelling or building a new home make the comparison between granite and marble surfaces. Here are some deciding factors that can help homeowners choose between the two.
 

Appearance

 
Most homeowners first consider how they want their area to look. They consider colours, patterns, and finishes amongst many other things. Natural stone makes nature’s elegant beauty a main component of your home. Countertops and backsplashes can be made to stand out, while flooring can bring a sense of cohesiveness to the entire area. In regards to marble and granite, the colours available are those that are found in nature. No two slabs will be identical. In fact, different sections of the same slab may vary in terms of pattern, shade, or colour. Choosing is a matter of preference, but there is an endless amount of options for homeowners to choose from, ensuring they will find a colour or stone that best suits their needs.
 

Durability

 
Marble and granite are both strong enough to hold up in any part of your home for many years, however, marble surfaces require specialized care to maintain their beauty and sheen. Both materials are porous, but marble is more prone to staining – especially when it comes in contact with wines or acidic liquid and juices. While both types of natural stone can hold up for a long time, sealants are used as a way to provide continued protection against spills and stains.
 

Degree of Maintenance

 
It’s good practice to clean spills immediately on both granite and marble surfaces. Marble will normally have to be sealed more often than granite (about two times per year). Coasters make for an excellent way to protect against condensation, moisture, and minor spills. This is especially important on marble surfaces in kitchen and bar areas where alcohol, lemons, and other acidic foods or substances are more likely to come into contact with your stone.
 

Utility

 
Granite is more resistant to heat than marble. Though you may be able to get away with putting warm pots and pans on your granite surface, it is still recommended that you use a heating pad on both surfaces. Granite and marble slabs can add value to your Toronto residence, providing long-lasting beauty and durability to your countertops, floors, and vanities.