Choosing the best countertop for your project is a big deal. It's fun and exciting! Marble counter tops... Perhaps more than any other stone, marble evokes images of sophisticated elegance. Once found only in the homes of the wealthy, marble countertops are now a much more accessible luxury due to improved technology and availability. The dramatic veining looks spectacular on marble countertops and will easily complement most other design elements and themes. Marble is made of calcium carbonate, which is reactive with acids (fruit juice, soda, coffee, alcoholic drinks, salad dressing, etc.) and will "etch" upon contact with these acids. Granite counter top maintenance is easy... and once you understand what you are dealing with... learns the simple secrets to cleaning granite countertops correctly. Remember that your countertops and floors are made of STONE! Think Egyptian Pyramids and Roman Colosseum. Stone countertops and floors are very durable, resilient and age beautifully. In fact, they will outlast you and your house! Comparing marble vs. granite kitchen countertops is common. Many want the easy maintenance of granite countertops, but prefer the color and pattern of marble. There are two types of marble "stains". One is a true stain where a substance is absorbed into the pores of the marble. A true "stain" will make a dark spot on the marble. But true stains are not a big problem with marble. Yes, they can happen when a substance remains on the surface for an extended time; however, marble is typically not very absorbent and does not stain easy. The second kind of "stain" is called "etching". It is not actually a stain, but physical damage to the marble that leaves a light and dull spot on the marble. Etching is a corrosive reaction (like a burn) that occurs on all calcite-based stones (marble, travertine, limestone) upon contact with acidic substances like coffee, juice, soda, salad dressing, tomato sauce, vinegar, etc. Etching also can occur upon contact with harsh alkaline cleaners like nearly all common and brand-name household cleaners available in stores, which is why you must use only products safe for cleaning marble. So, people mistakenly call an etch mark a "stain" and thus arises the false reputation that marble stains easy. Many people who insist on installing a marble kitchen countertop, despite warnings against it, will opt to have the surface "honed". This finish is a more matte or some say "dull" finish compared to a shiny "polished" finish.. Granite and Marble Fabrication. Countertops. Custom work. Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling. A new granite counter top is always high on the list of kitchen remodeling ideas. And why not? It's a proven durable surface with many unique benefits. When considering the overall performance characteristics,versatility,extensive style and color choices,ease of cleaning,maintenance and repair... other counter top materials have yet to truly surpass a granite counter top. Why A Granite Counter Top Is So Popular? In fact,granite is consistently rated the top performing kitchen countertop material by leading consumer magazines when compared with quartz countertops (an excellent countertop material),butcher block,ceramic tile,stainless steel and other manufactured surfaces. Granite is also more hygienic (tied with quartz) than all other surfaces. One of the hardest and strongest materials in nature,granite originated from the earth's core as liquid magma. Granite's innate ability to withstand constant abuse will impress you. A granite counter top is nearly impossible to scratch (you can cut your veggies,etc. on it if you don't mind dulling your knives),hot pots won't hurt it,bacteria and stains are not a problem under normal use and proper cleaning. Consider the elegance of granite for: * Kitchen Counter Tops * Kitchen Islands * Outdoor Kitchens * Bathroom Vanities and Granite Tile * Tub Decks * Shower Surrounds * Interior and Exterior Flooring * Wall Cladding