When you are trying to select a new countertop, the choices may seem overwhelming. From natural stone options like granite, marble and quartz to manmade options, choosing the best countertop material for your space may seem daunting. It doesn’t have to be hard. If you are trying to decide between granite and concrete, Spectrum Stone Designs, Central Virginia’s leading natural stone fabricator, outlines the differences between granite vs. concrete countertops.

The installation of granite versus concrete countertops is quite different. Granite Selection says you will most likely need a specialist to install and seal your granite countertops. Granite is quite heavy, so you will need a professional fabricator to move the granite slab into your house and put it in place. Concrete, on the other hand, is poured and must be cast and cured. It may take weeks or days before it is ready for use. Concrete is also very heavy, so you need to ensure your cabinets can bear the weight.

According to fixr.com, concrete countertops require more maintenance than granite countertops. Granite countertops are more heat resistant and concrete countertops are more likely to crack over time.

howstuffworks shares another major difference between granite and concrete: the appearance. Granite is a natural stone created when magma cools and crystallizes before rising to the surface of the earth.

The Geological Society of London tells us granite is made of quartz, feldspar and shiny black or pale mica. Because it is naturally made, granite comes in a wide variety of colors with unique veining. No two slabs of granite are alike. Granite is considered a luxury material and is often found in high-end homes. Concrete, on the other hand, has more of an industrial feel, but can be customized to create a variety of color combinations. Because concrete countertops are manmade, you can combine all sorts of materials to develop your own unique look. 

Still unsure if you want a granite or concrete countertop in your home? Contact us to schedule a visit to our showroom to see the wide variety of granite slab options we can install in your home or office.