Marble or granite?

1. Marble or granite slabs?

The main difference between marble and granite is their origin. Marble is actually formed from limestone, which turns into marble when subjected to immense heat and pressure, while granite is of pure, volcanic origin. Since limestone is whitish in colour, marble is mainly white, too, apart from its characteristic veining, which is formed by crystallised minerals deposited by water running through the stone and evaporating. These minerals may give the marble a coloured tint as well. Granite is found in darker shades and its structure is granular. Marble slabs and granite slabs are used to cover the floors of prestigious interiors and exteriors (and have been since ancient times) and as wall coverings in bathrooms and public buildings.

2. Types of granite and marble

Unlike granite, which can only be cut with a diamond blade, marble is considered a slightly softer material since it is easier to work with. In terms of physical and chemical characteristics, granite is far more durable and therefore more suitable as a building material. Compared to granite, marble does not tolerate the influences of the external environment well, especially acid, and deteriorates much faster. This is the great advantage of granite. Plus it is easier to clean and maintain without the need to worry too much about which cleaning substance you’re using.

3. Exterior or interior?

Granite is always the better option for outdoor use because of its hardness and greater durability. This is why it is excellent for paving surfaces that must withstand some kind of load (public areas). As for the interior, your hands aren’t tied. You can choose either stone. In principle, granite is always recommended for kitchens since kitchen worktops are considered to be surfaces that require greater durability. While we know that price is the deciding factor in most cases, for those times when it isn’t, we’d always go for granite.

3.1. Granite countertops

Custom-made stone countertops are certainly the best choice when it comes to kitchen work surfaces. A granite countertop is resistant to any knocks, temperature changes, cracking, dirt and grime, and, above all, it is exceptionally easy to clean and maintain. In addition, the rich texture of natural stone will bring a touch of sophistication and luxury to any kitchen. Bespoke stone worktops can be ordered from any stonecutter.

3.2. Contemporary headstones

A grave, with the headstone as its focus, is an important way to honour the memory of one’s loved ones. Stone is a very durable material and has always been used for gravestones. Usually, marble and granite are chosen, not only due to their resistance and durability, but also as they meet the aesthetic criteria of what a grave should look like. You can opt for a single or double headstone or for an urn with or without a box. Many stonecutters have catalogues offering a selection of pre-finished products, but you can always opt for something else that you have in mind, i.e. something custom-made.

3.3. Marble staircases

Marble and granite are very resistant to wear and are perfectly suitable for walking surfaces such as stone staircases. Made to measure, they are produced by stonecutters, who first take measurements and make a plan of the staircase and then make the structure, the stringers, and the treads accordingly. Marble staircases can be both found both inside and outside. However, while interior marble staircases can be polished, those outside are much better with coarser surfaces. In such cases, sandblasted marble or anti-slip strips are always recommended.

3.4. Granite window sills

Granite and marble are also used to make window sills. They are very resistant to any knocks, rain, and sun and are therefore an ideal material for the external features of any building. In addition, a stone window sill is an excellent solution aesthetically speaking since it remains looking the same for years and it also goes with both classical and modern facade styles. For window sills, 2-3 cm thick stone is used. We recommend polished stone that is more resistant to impurities and which water flows off more easily. The edges of such window sills are sanded at an angle, again to allow water to drain away more easily.

4. Granite - price

How much is granite? Granite that has a less pronounced granular structure is more homogeneous and therefore more expensive. Granite slabs range from NGN12,500-NGN25,000/m2, but they can cost NGN40,000/m2.

5. Marble - price

How much is marble? The cost of marble depends on the veining density and patterns and its colour since this affects the uniqueness of the final product. The more unusual a piece of stone is, the more elegant, impressive, and striking the end result will be. In this sense, marble with no veins is the cheapest because it is visually ‘ordinary’. All in all, the average price of marble is NGN24,000/m2, while rarer pieces can cost NGN65,000/m2.