Jennifer Baiceanu

When remodeling your kitchen, the most important question in your mind might be about what kind of material to choose for your counter tops. If your choice is granite, then rest assured that you have made a good choice. They are beautiful, durable and scratch resistant. But choosing granite has become more difficult with the increasing variety of colors and textures available in the market today. The choice has to be made keeping the cabinets, floor, and your taste in mind. Read on for some guidance in making your choice. Don’t miss our latest article where we explain what granite is used for.

Color of the cabinet
The color of the cabinet plays an important part when choosing granite. It will be wise to carry a sample of the cabinet when you go out to shop for granite. Choose granite that is in contrast to the cabinet color, but has hues of the color. Some people prefer the granite and their cabinets to be of the same color but this tends to put a big chunk of the same color and might be sore on the eyes.

Choose counter tops that are of the same color as that of the cabinets, but has a darker veining or mottling. For instance, if you have white cabinets, you might like white spring granite. It has a white background with veins of black, grey and brown.

If contrast is what interests you, then go for counter tops with contrasting background with veins that match the cabinet’s color. For example, white spring granite can be used with contrasting black cabinets for a great look.

The size of your kitchen
If you own a small kitchen, lighter hues will be better suited. It will help make the kitchen look large and comfortable. Depending on the amount of natural light the kitchen receives, you can also use dark granite with lighter veins to good effect.

Thickness of the granite
There are two sizes that are usually available in the market- 2 cm and 3 cm ( ¾ inches and 1 ¼ inches). While the thicker one will be more costly and heavier, the thinner on will need support and laminated edges to help build its thickness.

The edge of your counter top
You can also choose the kind of edge finish you need on your granite. There are many edges available in the market like the chiseled edge, rolled edge, beveled edge and such. You may also choose to custom order an edge that matches your home.

Marble and granite are among the most popular choices when it comes to kitchen counter tops. They are both naturally occurring stones and have a set of pros and cons you should consider while choosing them for the kitchen. They differ very much in the areas of hardness, porosity, aesthetics, durability, longevity, scratch and stain resistance. Before you make your final decision, you must consider the life style and needs of your family.

Resistance to scratches and stains

Granite is highly resistant to scratches and stains as it is naturally non porous and hard. This quality makes it the most suitable material to be used on counter tops. Knifes or other gadgets cannot scratch or damage granite. Thanks to its non porous nature, food or liquid spilled on it will leave no stains.

Marble on the other hand is softer and more porous as compared to granite. Objects used daily in the kitchen like the kitchen knife will easily leave a scratch. You will have to apply a sealant on marble counter tops to protect it from any spilled food, oils and liquids.

Damages due to heat or chemicals
Granite is resistant to chemicals, acidic food or heat. Marble is heat resistant to an extent but you may have to use a mat or trivet to avoid any discoloration. Acidic food like ketchup, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard and alcohol tend to leave a mark on marble counter tops. The mark will look etched, dull and lackluster. It cannot be reversed or prevented by the application of a sealant.

Cracks or chip offs
Both granite and marble are made of crystalline structure. Both can potentially crack or chip if put under blows from a hard or sharp object. Daily usage in the kitchen will rarely cause such kind of damage to granite as it is hard and more durable. Marble is much softer and tends to chip and crack more easily in comparison to granite.

Aesthetics
Despite its disadvantages marble is still preferred over granite if you take looks into consideration. Every thing about marble exudes luxury and class. Granite too can lend an air of sophistication and the fact that it has more than 2500 colors and textures to choose from is a plus point.

Maintenance
Even though granite is a tough stone, you can add an extra layer of protection by sealing the counter top. But with the marble counter top, it is important that you seal it and handle it with care. Both must be cleaned with a damp cloth. Soapy water may be used for
removal of any stubborn debris. Cleaning agents like ammonia and bleach must be avoided. If you have a marble counter top, it is important that you dry it if it gets wet.

Granite is well suited for rough use while marble will be more suited if you rarely cook or are ready to give your counter tops some tender care.

Marble Unlimited, Inc has been manufacturing counter-tops since 1997. We have a large inventory of granite and marble slabs. We also manufacture Quartz Surfaces including HanStone, Zodiaq, SileStone and CeasarStone. Some of these materials used recycled material in them. Please give us a call to give you a free quote for counter-tops and flooring. We have competitive prices and are a factory direct manufacturer and installer.