Granite Kitchen Tops

Granite is the preferred stone for kitchen tops
Granite is the most durable kitchen top available
It will retain its beauty and hold its value longer than any other kitchen top
It is considered the second hardest stone and is scratch resistant to knives, pots and pans under normal use
Its polish is not subject to etching by household acids
Not affected by typical kitchen heat such as hot pans
It comes in various colours and structural compositions
Granite can be polished, honed or flamed
Polished granite will keep its high gloss virtually forever
New sealers makes granite kitchen tops almost maintenance-free

Expensive
Granite can crack
It needs to be sealed as oily or acidic liquids could permanently stain the stone
Although it comes in various colours there are colour limitations
There are concerns over the cleanliness of granite as a kitchen top because of its porous composition

Marble kitchen tops are known for its unique, luxurious, glossy and elegant finish
Honed marble will not etch as easily because of its matte finish
Almost unlimited colour variations
Very versatile

Marble is softer than granite and cannot take heat without dulling the surface
Marble is used more often for bathroom vanity tops, Jacuzzi tops and fireplaces
It is easy to scratch and is affected by normal kitchen acidic substances, such as vinegars, ketchups etc.
Marble can partially loose its high-gloss as many chemicals can etch its surface
Sealing it helps somewhat but does not prevent etching entirely because it is porous
Because of it's extremely high price tag, marble is not often seen on the countertops of whole kitchens
Marble kitchen tops may need resealing periodically