Onyx vs granite, which material to choose? Choosing the right material is tricky to remodel the countertops of your home, be it kitchen countertop or bathroom, or anywhere in your home.
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and the countertops are the centerpiece. When choosing the right material for your countertops, there are many factors to consider. Onyx vs granite is the ultimate debate. One is flashy and delicate, and the other is sturdy and durable.
Let’s take a look at some factors that make them different. For example, which countertops are easy to maintain, and if onyx countertops price is higher than granite, how are these countertops used?
Aesthetic Appeal
Regarding countertops, the aesthetic appeal of granite and onyx countertops are both highly desirable.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone available in various colors, textures, and patterns. It is highly resistant to staining and scratching and is one of the hardest stones. Granite has a classic and timeless look that can be adapted to fit any kitchen space. Its natural stone has a unique and beautiful look, with many shades and patterns.
Granite is a great choice for kitchens that have a traditional or contemporary look. It is resistant to scratches and staining and is perfect for busy households.
Onyx
Onyx is a man-made material, softer than granite, with a beautiful marble-like appearance. Onyx has a more modern and sophisticated look. It has a unique pattern and coloration, with an almost crystalline appearance.
Onyx is a great choice for modern and contemporary kitchens. Its unique pattern and coloration give it a fresh and modern look, making it perfect for kitchens with a modern aesthetic. In addition, it is often used as an accent or decorative piece in bathrooms and kitchens.
A green onyx countertop is a great choice for the accentuation of your interior walls and bathroom countertops. Whereas a black onyx countertop looks best in the kitchen.
Maintenance
Both materials have differences, especially when it comes to maintenance.
Granite
Granite countertops require regular sealing in order to keep their natural beauty. The sealing process helps protect the granite from staining and discoloration and should be done every year or so. Additionally, granite should be wiped down on a regular basis with a mild cleaner and warm water to help prevent discoloration and staining.
Onyx
Onyx is a porous material, which means it’s vulnerable to staining and damage from certain liquid spills and acids.
It’s important to clean the surface on a regular basis with mild soap and water and use a soft cloth, such as microfiber, to dry the surface thoroughly.
You can apply sealers every 6-12 months to protect against damage from acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar. However, keep in mind that this will not protect against deep staining.
It is also important to avoid using harsh abrasives when cleaning or polishing the Onyx surface as they can lead to scratches in the material. Overall, with proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy your Onyx countertop for many years.
Usage
The granite countertops are extremely hard and durable, and they can bear hotpots and sharp objects like knives. It also comes in various colors to choose from, so you can get really creative with the color scheme.
Research in 2016 on the materials used for kitchen countertops was done by age group. It revealed that 43% of homeowners aged between 30-54 chose granite countertops for their kitchen remodeling. Also, according to research in 2014, it is estimated that in urban neighborhoods, 36% have granite countertops.
As far the onyx countertops are concerned, these are highly prone to stains or scratches by sharp objects, so you have to be careful with the hotpots and knives of daily use. Also, onyx slabs are relatively shorter than granite ones, and no two onyx slabs ever look the same. It means those, who like multiple colors in their kitchen or bathrooms, can opt for onyx countertops.
Cost
As the onyx countertop comes under the luxurious category, the onyx countertop cost is usually higher than the granite countertop.
The onyx countertop costs around $100 per square foot, and the granite countertop usually cost around $75 per square foot.
Final Words
Both countertop materials are analyzed based on standard factors like usability, care, cost, and appearance.
If someone is interested in a durable and sturdy countertop, they must choose granite. It surely gives a classic look to your kitchen or bathroom.
On the other hand, if someone wants a more luxurious and flashy experience, they should go for the onyx countertops. However, they must think before about the preventive measures, the onyx countertops price, and what color they should choose. For example, should they go for a green onyx countertop or a black onyx countertop in their kitchen?
We at Edstone have a large variety of countertop materials to choose from. You can get the best quality material at the best price, and we will even install them for you.
