Granite vs Marble Stone for Bathroom Countertops – 10 Things You Should Know
At StoneCut, we know that choosing the right stone for your bathroom countertop isn’t just about style—it’s about finding the perfect balance between function, beauty, and long-term value. Two of the most popular choices our clients consider are granite and marble. While both bring elegance and sophistication to any bathroom, they offer very different benefits.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 10 things you should know when deciding between granite vs marble for your bathroom countertops—helping you make the best choice for your home.
1. Appearance & Aesthetics
- Granite: Bold patterns, speckled grains, and a wide range of colors (black, grey, green, pink).
- Marble: Elegant veining, softer color palette (white, grey, beige) – offers a more classic, luxurious look.
2. Durability
- Granite: Extremely hard and durable; resists chips and scratches better.
- Marble: Softer and more prone to scratching, especially with sharp objects or heavy use.
3. Water Resistance
- Granite: More water-resistant once sealed properly.
- Marble: More porous and can absorb water, leading to stains or etching if not sealed regularly.
4. Maintenance
- Granite: Low maintenance; needs sealing once a year.
- Marble: Higher maintenance; requires sealing more frequently and careful cleaning.
5. Stain Resistance
- Granite: More resistant to staining from toiletries and cosmetics.
- Marble: Easily stained by makeup, hair dye, or acidic substances like lemon or vinegar.
6. Heat Resistance
- Both granite and marble are heat-resistant, but granite is more robust withstanding hot tools like curling irons without damage.
7. Cost
- Granite: Typically more affordable than marble, though rare granite types can be expensive.
- Marble: Usually costs more due to its prestige and aesthetic appeal.
8. Variety & Uniqueness
- Granite: Each slab is unique; variety depends on the mineral mix.
- Marble: Also unique, but with more subtle, classic beauty.
9. Weight
- Both stones are heavy, requiring strong cabinetry and professional installation. No major difference in weight, but this impacts shipping and labor costs.
10. Best Use Case in Bathrooms
- Granite: Ideal for high-traffic bathrooms, such as kids’ or guest baths.
- Marble: Best for master bathrooms where the aesthetic is prioritized and there's more control over usage.
Conclusion:
Choose granite for practicality and durability, and go with marble if you’re after timeless elegance and don’t mind the extra upkeep. Need help? Get in touch for free expert advice and quote.