Countertop Series 01 : Granite & Marble
Wow, can you believe how many types of countertops you can choose from? Do you know how many companies produce these countertops? The countertop series is here to discuss various materials and can help explain the differences among them to your clients.
Granite Countertops:
Granite countertops are a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their natural beauty and durability. Composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica, granite comes in a wide array of colors and patterns, making each countertop unique. Its durability makes it resistant to scratches, heat, and stains, making it well-suited for areas with heavy daily use. However, granite countertops require periodic sealing to maintain their resistance to stains and moisture. Homeowners often appreciate the timeless appeal and robust nature of granite, making it a reliable option for those seeking both aesthetics and functionality in their countertop choice.
Material: Granite is a natural stone formed from volcanic activity and consists mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica.
Appearance: Known for its unique and diverse patterns, granite comes in a range of colors, including whites, blacks, and various earth tones.
Durability: Granite is highly durable, resistant to scratches, heat, and stains, making it suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens.
Maintenance: It requires periodic sealing to maintain its resistance to stains and moisture.
Marble Countertops:
Marble countertops exude luxury and sophistication, making them a sought-after choice for elegant kitchens and bathrooms. Formed from limestone under intense heat and pressure, marble showcases distinctive veining patterns and comes in a variety of colors, with white and beige being particularly popular. While marble adds a touch of opulence to any space, it is more porous than granite, making it prone to scratches, stains, and etching from acidic substances. Regular sealing is essential to protect marble from these potential issues and to preserve its polished appearance. Despite requiring a bit more maintenance, many homeowners are drawn to the timeless and classic aesthetic that marble brings to their living spaces.
Material: Marble is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone undergoes intense heat and pressure.
Appearance: Recognized for its luxurious appearance, marble features elegant veining patterns and comes in various shades, including white, beige, and gray.
Durability: While marble is durable, it is more porous than granite, making it more susceptible to scratches, stains, and acidic substances.
Maintenance: Regular sealing is necessary to protect marble from stains and maintain its luster.
Cons of Granite:
Maintenance: While granite is generally low-maintenance, it requires periodic sealing to protect against stains and moisture.
Limited Color Choices: While granite comes in various colors and patterns, some homeowners may find the options more limited compared to other materials.
Cold Surface: Granite can feel cold to the touch, which may be uncomfortable for some, especially in colder climates.
Cons of Marble:
Porous Nature: Marble is more porous than granite, making it susceptible to stains from acidic substances like wine or citrus.
Scratch and Etch Prone: Marble is softer than granite and can be scratched more easily. It is also prone to etching when exposed to acids.
Regular Sealing Needed: Marble requires regular sealing to maintain its resistance to stains and scratches, adding to the maintenance routine.
Both granite and marble have their unique cons, and the choice between them often comes down to individual preferences, lifestyle, and the specific requirements of the space.
In California, you can find a variety of companies that specialize in the production and distribution of granite and marble. Here are five well-known companies in the state:
Bedrosians Tile & Stone: With multiple locations in California, Bedrosians offers an extensive selection of natural stones, including granite and marble. They are known for their diverse range of products and styles.
Arizona Tile: Operating in California and beyond, Arizona Tile is a leading supplier of natural stone products, offering a wide range of granite and marble options for countertops, flooring, and more.
MSI (M S International): MSI has multiple locations in California and is a major distributor of natural stone, providing a vast selection of granite and marble products for residential and commercial projects.
Marble Unlimited: Based in San Jose, Marble Unlimited specializes in natural stone products, including marble and granite. They cater to both residential and commercial clients, offering customization options.
Allied Stone Inc.: With a presence in California, Allied Stone is known for its premium quality natural stone products, including granite and marble. They provide a range of services from selection to installation.
Distinguishing between marble and granite is primarily based on their appearance, composition, durability, and maintenance requirements. Marble, prized for its luxurious look, features distinctive veining patterns and is softer and more porous, making it susceptible to scratches and stains. Granite, with a varied granular appearance, is denser and more durable, resisting scratches, heat, and stains more effectively. While both stones benefit from periodic sealing, marble demands more maintenance to protect against potential issues. By noting these distinctions, you can confidently identify whether you're dealing with the elegance of marble or the robust character of granite.
