Golden State Marble & Granite, Inc.

The Differences between Granite and Marble

If you’re considering upgrading your kitchen’s countertops, you may be having a tough time choosing between granite and marble. Take a look at some of the major differences between granite and marble countertops, and how to determine which is right for your home:

Chemical Composition

Although they may seem physically similar to the untrained eye, granite and marble are actually very different. Marble is made from a chemical compound called calcium carbonate and is typically formed through metamorphic rock processes in limestone and dolomite. Granite, on the other hand, is made from magma, which is the hot molten rock that exists below the earth’s surface. Although the chemical composition or origins of granite and marble aren’t necessarily good or bad, they cause these natural stones to behave differently in countertop applications.

Physical Properties

Granite has a reputation of being much harder and more durable than marble. While this is true in some cases, certain kinds of marble, including marbles the serpentine class, are actually as hard and durable as granite. If you have a very active kitchen but have your heart set on marble, consider one of the more durable classes.

Maintenance

Finally, the last factor to consider when choosing granite or marble is how easy your countertop is to maintain. Granite and marble both have a reputation of being high maintenance. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth—with basic, regular cleaning and staining as needed, your granite or marble countertop will keep its illustrious shine indefinitely.

For help choosing between granite and marble, contact Gol

den State Marble & Granite. We specialize in providing high-quality natural stone countertops throughout San Mateo. Visit us online or call (650) 425-3126 for more information on our products.

The Difference Between Granite and Other Stones

Granite is one of the most popular natural stones for remodeling projects.

In this video, you will learn what separates granite from other natural stones. Granites are formed by magma and is characterized by fine crystals of various colors. Marble, on the other hand, is generally of a single color. Granite is a durable natural stone that has distinct advantages over other types of stone. Its resistance to heat and staining make it a perfect choice for countertops.

If you have any further questions about granite or any other type of natural stone, call Golden State Marble & Granite, Inc. at (650) 425-3216.  We've been manufacturing, supplying and installing high quality countertops and cabinets, in the San Mateo area, since 2003.

Learn More About Adding Natural Stone to Your Home with These Resources

If you want further information about natural stone, explore the links provided below. To hear suggestions for your next remodeling project in San Mateo, call Golden State Marble & Granite, Inc. at (650) 425-3216.

· For information on how to remove stains from your natural stone surfaces, read this article from Natural-Stone.com.

· To read more about the importance of sealing marble, read this article from the Marble Institute of America.

· To read more about kitchen remodeling, check out this article from MSNBC.

· For more information about what marble is and how it is created, check out this article from Flooring Guide.

· For more information about Quartz countertops, read this article from HGTV.

Why It's Important to Seal Your Natural Stone

Natural stone comes in all shape and sizes. Often, because of the unique way in which natural stone is formed, it will have pores, crevices, and veins. Natural stone’s distinct appearance is one of its biggest draws, but if not properly addressed, these qualities can also make your natural stone susceptible to damage. Here are some forms of damage that you can prevent by sealing your natural stone.

· Staining

One of the most common problems with natural stone is staining. When you don’t seal your natural stone, spilt liquid can pass through the stone’s capillaries, seeping deep into the stone. These stains can often be impossible to remove without dramatically refashioning the stone. Sealing your natural stone is a great way to protect your new countertops from everyday spills and dust buildup.

· Salt Attacks

Salt attacks occur when salts dissolved in spilt liquid sink into the stone. This can lead to persistent discoloration. In addition, salt attacks can actually compromise the structural integrity of your natural stone.

· Efflorescence

When liquids seem into natural stone, the minerals and salts in that liquid are gradually drawn to the surface, they can form a gritty, white deposit on the surface.

· Acid

Some natural stone types are particularly susceptible to acid damage. Acid can erode stone and leave persistent marks. Even common household liquids like juice and vinegar can cause irreparable damage to your natural stone surfaces.

If you have any further questions about why it’s important to seal your natural stone, please call Golden State Marble & Granite, Inc. at (650) 425-3126. We can help you plan and design your next home remodeling project from start to finish and integrate beautiful natural stone, granite, marble, or quartz into any room in your San Mateo home.

What Types of Natural Stone Are Available for My Home

Natural stone is a versatile, reliable material that can be used for many home applications. There are many different types of natural stone, each with its own advantages. Knowing which one works best for your countertop remodeling can help make your project successful. Here are a few types of natural stone that are available for your home.

· Marble

Marble is one of the most attractive stones for countertops. This is primarily due to the fact that marble slabs come in a wide variety of styles and colors. However, marble must be sealed and cleaned regularly. In addition, marble is particularly sensitive to acid, and acidic liquids like citrus juice can leave marble floors discolored.

· Granite

Granite is an igneous rock, meaning it is formed during volcanic action. Because granite is dense and very durable, it is easily maintained and a good choice for high-traffic areas. In addition to resisting abrasion, granite is also stain- and acid-resistant. These qualities make granite a good choice for countertops and kitchens.  This is not say that granite is indestructible, however. Although it is resistant to spills, granite floors can be scratched by quartz, which is often brought into homes on the soles of people’s shoes. 

· Quartz

Although quartz is not as well known as marble or granite, it is quickly gaining a reputation is a reliable choice for home remodeling projects. Quartz is extremely durable and resists heat and stains. Furthermore, maintaining quartz is extremely easy, meaning you won’t have to worry about incurring high repair cost down the road.

If you have any further questions about types of natural stone available for your countertops, call Golden State Marble & Granite Inc. at (650) 425-3126. We can help you plan and design your remodeling project from start to finish.