Natural stone kitchen counters make stunning additions to any home. Stone has a unique beauty that cannot be reproduced by other materials, which is why it remains such a popular surface after so many years.
Many stones may be used on the counter, but two of the most common are granite and marble. Both stones are available in slabs that can be installed as counters, and they provide years of use. But, these two materials are very different from one another in the way they look and function in a busy kitchen environment. We outline their differences below so that you can make a more informed decision for your home.
Both granite and marble are natural stones. In the case of slabs sold for countertops, there are many different minerals and stones sold as either granite or marble because they contain similar composition and characteristics.
Commercial granite is an igneous or metamorphic stone that is mainly comprised of silica, feldspar, mica, and quartz. Stones labeled as granite usually have a tightly packed, granular appearance to their surface. They may have veins, flecks of color, or be solid. Granite comes in a wide range of colors from very light to very dark, and each slab has some degree of variation in color over its surface.
Commercial marble is either metamorphic or sedimentary in composition, made primarily of calcite. Some “marbles” may be a type of quartzite or quartz-based stone, and green “marbles” are made of a mineral called serpentine. Marble is usually characterized by having veins and a smoother surface texture than granite. Like granite, marble ranges from white to black in color and will have some degree of variation in color over its surface.
Both marble and granite vary in appearance from slab to slab because the minerals that make up the color of the stone may change depending on where it is cut from.
For this reason, it is always recommended that you visit a stone yard and select the stone you want in person. Showroom samples of either marble or granite will not provide a true representation of what the stone will look like.
Marble and granite counters are fabricated and installed in the same way. A template is made of your counter, and this template is transferred to the slab you want for your kitchen. The slab is cut to match the template and given a finished edge and any cutouts.
The slab is transported to your home, and a silicone adhesive is applied to the perimeter of the cabinets. The slab is then lowered into place. Some thinner marble slabs may need to have a plywood substrate installed on the cabinets first to strengthen them, but any 1¼-inch (3-cm) slab can be installed directly on the cabinets.
Because marble slabs are usually smaller than granite slabs, you may need more pieces to complete a full kitchen if using marble.
Granite counters range in cost from $40 to $75 a square foot on average. More exotic stones, such as stones colored blue, may range in cost as high as $500 a square foot. For a 30-square-foot counter, the average material cost is around $1,000 to $1,500. Fabrication and labor add around $330 to the cost of the stone, a sink cutout adds another $100, and edging adds about $10 a linear foot on average. This makes the 30-square-foot granite counter cost between $3,000 and $3,500 installed.
Fabrication, installation, cutout, and edging costs for marble are around the same cost. Material costs for marble are higher, starting at around $60 a square foot and going as high as $100. This makes the material costs for a marble counter of the same size between $1,800 and $3,000 making the total range $3,800 to $5,000 on average.
The durability of the stone you choose is dictated by its makeup. Most marbles are made of calcite, which is a very soft and porous mineral. This means that marble will be more likely to absorb stains and to etch or lose its finish over time. Having a honed, or matte finish, for your marble counter can help disguise some of the etching. However, not all marble is made primarily of calcite. Green marble, made of serpentine, does not etch as easily, but it can spall or flake with prolonged contact with water. Quartzites that are labeled as marble, like Thassos or Azul Celeste, are extremely durable and much harder than some granites.
Granite can range dramatically in terms of durability. True, igneous granites and gabbros, such as Absolute Black, are nonporous, do not require sealing, nor easily scratch or etch. Most dark-colored granites are also impervious to staining and etching.
Some light-colored granites, however, are actually dolomites, which is a metamorphic stone. These may scratch, etch, or stain.
In general granite counters are considered more durable than marble. However, each stone is given a rating from A to D. Any stone rated D is considered weak, while stones rated A are considered strong.
Every natural stone has its own level of required maintenance. Even among granites or marbles, there are variations. However, most granites are lower maintenance than most marbles.
For granite, all stones except black should be sealed shortly after installation. A well-sealed stone will bead water on its surface. When the water stops beading, the stone must be resealed. In addition, always wipe up spills as soon as they are seen to prevent potential staining, and wash the stone with a PH-neutral cleanser to prevent etching or removal of the finish.
For marble, all stones should be sealed regularly with a sealer designed for porous stone. Even with a sealer, marble may stain more easily, which can be difficult to get out even with a poultice. Always wipe up spills as soon as they are seen, and avoid placing acidic things like lemon juice, tomato sauce, or red wine directly on the counter because these can cause the stone to etch.
Like granite, marble should always be cleaned with a PH-neutral cleanser to avoid more etching. It should also be resealed at least once a quarter, as opposed to yearly for granite.
Both granite and marble are heat-resistant. Both types of stones were formed through heat, either through volcanic activity or enormous amounts of heat and pressure. Typically, hot pots will not bother either stone, and neither will discolor when used near heat. Always use caution with hot pots in the kitchen, regardless of how well your stone handles the heat.
Decomposing granite, which is found in soil, has been known to give off radon gas. So naturally, some people are concerned about using granite counters in their home. There is no evidence, however, that either granite or marble slabs give off radon gas in the home. If you are concerned, radon test kits are available, which can detect the gas.
On their own, granite and marble counters do not have much impact on resale value. As part of a luxury kitchen upgrade, however, Remodeling Magazine shows that you can recoup roughly 53% of the total costs.
Both granite and marble can make a kitchen look more appealing to a buyer, which may help the property sell more quickly, particularly if the old countertop was in poor condition.
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When deciding between granite or marble countertops, you’ll want to consider the differences in appearance, material, price, and more. Marble, with its distinctive appearance, is regarded as the ultimate luxury material, while granite gives you the look of natural stone and is extremely durable. Our guide will help you choose between marble versus granite for your next home improvement project.
Marble is a metamorphic rock that’s transformed out of sedimentary stone. Originally, marble began as limestone and metamorphosized into marble under extreme heat and pressure. The primary component is calcium carbonate, which has softer elements than granite. Marble’s characteristic veining comes from other minerals captured during the metamorphic process.
The most common types of marble for home renovation include the following:
Other types of marble countertops include Statuario, Danby, cultured, Makrana, and pink.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from slowly cooling magma millions of years ago. During the cooling process, mineral crystals developed, giving granite its distinctive appearance. Quartz and feldspar are the dominant minerals in granite, along with mica, potassium, and amphiboles.
Granite is available in a variety of colors based on mineral composition. Popular colors for home interior projects include the following:
When choosing new countertops, you’ll want to factor in appearance, cost, upkeep, durability, installation, life span, environmental impact, resale value, and more. We’ll discuss the features of marble versus granite kitchen countertops below.
Both marble versus granite countertops are visually appealing and unique. Granite is known for showing colorful specks, whereas marble has larger, more concentrated veining running through it.
Marble Granite Elegant veining Natural stone Wide selection of colors Wide selection of hues Wide selection of styles Wide selection of styles Each slab is unique Each slab is unique
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Marble has a timeless, elegant look that’ll elevate your kitchen. Because marble originates from limestone around the world, each slab is unique in color and design. Marble is available in a wide range of colors with beautiful veining, making it a favorite for both contemporary and traditional kitchens and bathrooms.
Due to its natural stone appearance, granite truly transforms the look of a kitchen. Between the large variety of colors, hues, and styles in both light and dark colors, granite gives your kitchen or bathroom countertops a classic flair.
Cost is one of the primary factors when choosing a material for remodeling. Natural stone, such as marble and granite, is usually more expensive than synthetic materials, but stone is also longer lasting and more durable. Here are the typical range costs for marble versus granite:
Marble Average Cost Range Granite Average Cost Range $2,000 – $5,000 $2,250 – $4,500Marble countertop costs are typically more cost-prohibitive than granite, coming in between $40 and $100 per square foot, with an average price of $60 per square foot without installation. Marble countertop costs will depend on several factors, such as the size of your countertop, the type of marble, and any enhancements you decide to make.
Granite countertop costs will run between $40 and $60 per square foot for basic slabs and between $75 and $100 per square foot without installation for specialty colors, such as red and blue. You can also expect to pay more for larger granite slabs and if you add complex patterns, such as unique swirls and streaks.
Both marble and granite countertops are relatively easy to clean, but both materials also require regular maintenance and upkeep. So you’ll need to factor in the costs to polish and restore your countertops into your overall price. Here are the average costs to deep clean and reseal marble and granite:
Marble Cleaning and Resealing Cost Range per Sq. Ft. Granite Cleaning and Resealing Cost Range $4 – $12 $4 – $6Because marble is a naturally porous stone, you’ll need to carefully clean your countertops with a neutral cleaner, such as mild dish soap. Avoid anything abrasive, as it could strip and dull the finish. In terms of yearly maintenance, you’ll want to reseal your marble countertops twice a year to keep them in good condition. If you need to repair chips and cracks, you can expect to pay $20 per square foot or more for that service.
Granite is relatively easier to keep clean, and you can use mild detergent and hot water to keep your countertops looking new. You’ll want to avoid any acid or alkaline cleaners, as these could damage your granite. To properly maintain granite countertops, apply a fresh sealant once a year. You can expect the cost of restoring your granite countertops to run an average of $7 per square foot.
Ready to start your countertop installation?Both marble and granite are resilient countertop materials that can withstand heat. Yet, granite is a tougher material that better resists scratches than marble. The cost to repair your countertops will run between $200 and $500, depending on the type of damage. Here are examples of the durability of marble versus granite:
Marble Durability Granite Durability Heat-resistant Resists scratches, chips, and cracking Strong 3 – 5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale Strong 6 – 7 on the Mohs Hardness ScaleMarble is elegant and robust, with high resistance to heat. But marble is also less resistant to scratches and chipping. And if anything acidic, such as lemons, is left on your countertop, it could etch the marble surface. If your countertop requires marble restoration services, you can expect to pay between $6 and $40 per square foot for repairs.
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Granite is the preferred countertop choice for busy kitchens due to its high resistance to heat, scratches, and chipping. If you drop a knife on a granite countertop, you can rest assured it won’t scratch the surface.
However, granite is susceptible to chipping on its edges and corners—and it’ll crack or chip if a heavy object falls on it. You can expect a granite countertop repair service to charge between $6 and $40 per square foot.
For installation, marble and granite countertops use the same methods, and we recommend that a professional tackle this project. You can expect the cost to install or replace countertops to run between $1,860 and $4,300. Additionally, labor costs add around $300 to $1,650 to this project.
Here are the typical countertop installation costs, including labor, per square foot:
Marble Installation Cost Range per Sq. Ft. Granite Installation Cost Range per Sq. Ft. $50 – $180 $50 – $130We recommend hiring a marble contractor near you to install your countertops. Pros not only know how to cut marble slabs properly but also know how to install and seal your countertop correctly.
If you DIY this project, you’ll need several helping hands, as marble is very heavy. Also, you won’t have the expertise to properly place marble’s beautiful veining within your kitchen or bathroom.
Like marble, we recommend hiring a granite countertop installer near you to ensure your countertop fits perfectly. Granite pros understand how to hide seams and seal your countertop to keep it in excellent condition. Granite is also very heavy, so you’ll need several helpers if you choose to DIY this project.
Both marble and granite are highly durable and can last many years with the proper care. When remodeling, the cost of cabinets and countertops plays a significant role, which is why choosing a long-lasting natural stone countertop is essential.
Here’s the expected longevity of marble versus granite countertops:
Marble Life Span Granite Life Span 20 – 50+ years 100+ yearsMarble has always been a luxurious addition to any kitchen or bathroom. But marble is softer than granite, so it’s more susceptible to scratches, stains, and damage. Marble countertops usually last around 20 years, but with proper maintenance and regular sealings, they can last beyond 50 years.
Granite is the stronger stone of the two. It can truly last a lifetime—or for 100 years or more. Granite will remain beautiful if you maintain and keep it free from scratches and chipping. It also requires regular sealings to keep it in great condition.
Although granite and marble are natural materials, the mining process isn’t environmentally friendly. Plus, marble and granite take millions of years to form, so they’re not sustainable materials. However, these hard-wearing, resilient stones have been around for millions of years and will last for many lifetimes with minimal care.
Therefore, making a more sustainable choice for your home renovation project is possible by choosing remnant or reclaimed stone. It’s reasonably easy to find granite or marble remnants and reclamations. Additionally, reclaimed stone often has an interesting story that’s a conversation starter and adds a little history to your living space. Talk to a stone and granite fabricator to help you with ideas for using remnant or recycled materials for your countertop project.
While marble isn’t a sustainable material, it has longevity, so you won’t be replacing your countertops every few years. Marble is also recyclable, and you can transform it into shelves, small tables, and other decorative wares.
Much like marble, granite isn’t sustainable. But because granite lasts a lifetime, you won’t need to worry about replacing it in the short term. Granite also has many recyclable qualities since many homeowners donate their old countertops. Or, you can make custom designs, such as tables, shelves, wall decor, and more.
While you may not be planning to sell your home immediately, resale value is still an important consideration. The money you’re investing in remodeling your home should be equaled or increased in the uplift in your home’s value. While both marble and granite are popular for kitchen remodeling, you’ll want to ensure you choose a countertop material proportional to your home’s overall value.
If you have a higher-priced home, marble countertops will provide added resale value. But you’ll want to maintain your marble continually. Worn-looking marble that no longer shines won’t offer the same resale value as polished and sealed marble.
Granite is among the most popular choices for kitchen counters. And it can add 100% or more of the installation cost when selling your home. However, if you choose dark colors, you risk your countertop going out of style. So, make sure to select an elegant color and maintain your granite for the long run.
Marble and granite are both durable choices for your home. They add value and have many pleasing qualities that can elevate a space. Ultimately, the decision comes down to preference, price, and lifestyle. You’ll want to speak to a countertop installer near you who can help guide you, depending on whether you’re planning to add a new countertop to your kitchen, bathroom, or another home project. Finally, our helpful countertop calculator can help you budget and understand the true costs of marble versus granite countertops.
Factors Marble Granite Appearance Elegant veining Lots of colors Cost $40 – $100 per sq. ft. $40 – $60 per sq. ft. Upkeep More maintenance Less maintenance Durability Less durable More durable Installation $50 – $180 per sq. ft. $50 – $130 per sq. ft. Life Span 20 – 50+ years 100+ years Resale Value May add value More popular valueGranite is the better choice for kitchens. With its resistance to heat and a higher tolerance for acidic food spills, it’ll continue to look good and require less diligent care than marble. Marble is a viable option, but be aware that it requires frequent sealing, careful cleaning, and diligence in cleaning spills.
Either stone works well for bathroom countertops. Because it usually won’t face spills from acidic foods, the bathroom is a great place to leverage marble, although you must ensure that you keep it sealed to resist the moisture it’ll face. For the shower, granite is a better option because while it does need sealing, it’s less prone to water damage than marble.
Marble and granite are tied closely for fireplace surrounds. For the classic white fireplace surround seen throughout history, marble is the way to go. It requires more cleaning and regular sealing, but its timeless elegance is undeniable.
You’ll find many alternatives to granite and marble, ranging from natural stones like limestone to synthetics like solid surface and resin, as well as recycled materials such as glass.
Quartz countertops come from artificial stone slabs. It looks like natural stone and has many of the same beneficial properties. However, compared to granite, quartz isn’t as durable. It can fade with prolonged exposure to UV light and isn’t as heat resistant. Read more about quartz versus granite countertops here.
Concrete countertops are elegant and sleek. And the typical cost of concrete countertops is comparable, between $2,100 and $4,000. However, compared to marble and granite, concrete is more porous and only has a life span of around 20 years, and you can expect more scratching and crumbling.
Soapstone countertops cost less than granite and marble, so it’s an economical compromise for those who want real stone but are on a tight budget. It’s heat-resistant and less prone to staining than both granite and marble. Unlike granite and marble, it’s resistant to acids like lemon juice and nonporous, so it doesn’t require sealing. On the other hand, it’s soft and scratches easily.
Ready to start your countertop installation?