Marble has long been admired for its beauty, making it a popular choice for countertops and vanities in both kitchens and bathrooms. From its timeless appeal to its unique patterns, marble adds an elegant touch to any space. But have you ever wondered how this stunning stone forms? Let’s explore the geological journey of marble and its role in creating beautiful surfaces. What is Marble? Marble is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone undergoes a transformation process under heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust. Over millions of years, this change alters the composition of limestone, resulting in a denser, crystalline stone with unique patterns and colors. The final product, marble, is often celebrated for its aesthetic qualities, making it a preferred material for interior design, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. The Journey from Limestone to Marble The Precursor: Limestone Marble begins as limestone, a sedimentary rock primarily composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). Over millions of years, limestone forms from the accumulation of marine organisms, like shells and corals, as well as from the precipitation of minerals from water. While limestone itself is beautiful, it is softer and more porous compared to marble. Heat and Pressure: The Metamorphic Transformation As limestone is buried deep within the Earth due to tectonic plate movements, it is subjected to high pressure and temperature. These conditions cause the calcium carbonate crystals in the limestone to recrystallize. The result is marble—denser and more compact than its limestone predecessor. The stone’s texture and structure are transformed, creating the unique crystalline appearance that marble is known for. The Role of Impurities One of the defining features of marble is its distinctive veining and color variations. These patterns are a result of impurities in the original limestone. As the limestone undergoes metamorphism, minerals such as iron, clay, and sand mix with the calcium carbonate, creating different colors and patterns. For example, the presence of iron may give the marble a reddish or brownish hue, while other minerals can contribute shades of gray, green, or black veining throughout the stone. Time and Earth's Forces Over millions of years, geological processes like tectonic shifts and erosion can bring marble closer to the Earth’s surface. Once exposed, it can be mined and processed into slabs, tiles, and other shapes to be used in various applications, including countertops and vanities. The marble’s natural beauty, shaped by its long journey, becomes a defining feature of any space. Why Marble is a Popular Choice for Countertops and Vanities Aesthetic Appeal Marble’s most striking feature is its unique appearance. Each piece of marble has its own distinct veining, color, and pattern, making it a highly sought-after material for countertops and vanities. Whether it’s the classic white of Carrara marble or the dramatic veining of dark-colored varieties, marble adds elegance and sophistication to any room. Timeless Elegance Marble has a long history, having been used in ancient architecture, sculptures, and monuments. Its timeless elegance makes it a perfect addition to both modern and traditional home designs. Whether you’re creating a sleek, contemporary kitchen or a luxurious, classic bathroom, marble complements a wide variety of styles. Variety of Options One of the benefits of marble is its wide range of color and pattern variations. From soft, neutral tones to bold, dramatic veins, there is a marble variety to suit any taste. Popular marble varieties for countertops include Carrara, Calacatta, Statuario, and Emperador, each with its unique characteristics and beauty. Conclusion The formation of marble is a fascinating natural process that takes millions of years, from the transformation of limestone under heat and pressure to the final crystallization that gives the stone its iconic look. Whether you’re using it in a countertop, vanity, or other design element, marble’s beauty, with its one-of-a-kind patterns and colors, will continue to be a favorite in interior design. With proper care, marble surfaces can last for many years, providing timeless elegance to any space.

If you're wondering why more homeowers are choosing quartz countertops, then read this article! Get in touch with our local countertop company today!

When planning your kitchen or bathroom countertops, one detail that often gets overlooked—but makes a big difference—is the backsplash. A backsplash is the vertical section of material installed on the wall directly behind your countertop. Its primary purpose is to protect your walls from water, grease, soap, and other everyday splashes, while also creating a clean, finished look that ties your design together. Why a Backsplash Is Important? Everyday tasks like washing dishes, cooking, or brushing your teeth can result in water, grease, and other debris hitting your walls. Without a backsplash, moisture can seep into the drywall over time, causing stains, damage, or even mold. A backsplash acts as a protective barrier, keeping your walls safe and making cleanup easier. Beyond protection, backsplashes enhance the overall look of your countertops. They create a smooth transition from counter to wall and add a polished, professional appearance to your kitchen or bathroom. Backsplash Heights and Options At MGL Granite, we can create backsplashes at any height to fit your design needs: Standard 4-Inch Backsplash: The industry standard is typically a 4-inch backsplash. It provides just the right amount of protection behind the countertop while maintaining a simple, timeless look. Full-Height Backsplash: Full-height backsplashes are more common in kitchens, especially behind ranges or sinks. They extend from the countertop up to the bottom of the cabinets—or even to the ceiling—creating a seamless, elegant look. Custom Wall Pieces: We can also fabricate custom backsplash pieces for walls, vanities, or other surfaces where a standard height might not fit your design. This flexibility allows you to achieve a truly personalized, high-end finish. Tile Backsplashes Some homeowners choose tile backsplashes for color, texture, or pattern. While tile can be beautiful, MGL Granite does not provide tile installation. However, we’re happy to coordinate with your tile installer to ensure a perfect fit where the countertop meets the wall. Finishing Touches That Make a Difference Choosing the right backsplash is about more than style—it’s about functionality and protecting your investment. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a 4-inch standard, the dramatic look of a full-height backsplash, or a custom piece to fit your walls, MGL Granite can fabricate and install the perfect solution for your space.

Discover why granite is a durable, stylish, and eco-friendly choice for any kitchen, backed by trusted countertop companies known for quality and value.

Granite is one of the most popular choices for kitchen and bathroom countertops—and for good reason. It's durable, beautiful, and timeless. But like any natural stone, granite needs a little care to keep it looking its best. One of the most important steps in maintaining granite countertops is sealing them. In this post, we’ll walk you through the basics of sealing granite, why it’s so important (especially for countertops that get regular use), and how MGL Granite can help. Why Does Granite Need to Be Sealed? Granite is a natural stone with a porous surface. That means that if it's left unsealed, liquids like water, oil, wine, or juice can seep into the stone, causing stains or even long-term damage. Bacteria can also find their way into those tiny pores, which isn’t something you want on your food prep surfaces. Sealing your granite countertops helps create a protective barrier that: Repels moisture and spills Prevents staining Makes cleaning easier Extends the life and beauty of your countertops How Often Should You Seal Granite? It depends on the type of granite, how much use your countertops get, and the type of sealer used. Some granite varieties are denser and require sealing less often, while others are more porous and need more frequent attention. As a general rule: Seal high-use kitchen countertops once a year. For less frequently used areas (like guest bathrooms), every 2–3 years may be enough. Pro Tip: Not sure if it's time to reseal? Drip a few drops of water on the surface. If it beads up, you're good. If the water soaks in, it's time to reseal. How to Seal Granite Countertops: Step-by-Step 1. Clean the Surface Thoroughly: Wipe down your granite with a gentle stone cleaner or warm soapy water. Remove all residue and let it dry completely before sealing. 2. Choose the Right Sealer: Use a granite-specific penetrating (or impregnating) sealer that soaks into the stone to provide long-lasting protection. 3. Apply the Sealer: Follow the instructions on the label. Typically, you'll a pply the sealer evenly with a clean cloth or applicator pad. Let it absorb for about 15–20 minutes. Wipe off any excess with a clean, dry cloth 4. Let It Cure: Most sealers cure within 24 hours. During this time, avoid using the surface or getting it wet. Want a Professional to Handle It? We've Got You Covered! At MGL Granite, we don’t just install granite—we help you maintain it. We offer professional granite sealing services, so you don’t have to worry about the mess or guesswork. Whether you need sealing for a newly installed countertop or want to refresh an older surface, we’re here to help. Keep Your Granite Looking Great for Years Sealing your granite countertops is a simple step that goes a long way in protecting your investment. With regular maintenance—or a visit from our team—you can enjoy the beauty and durability of your countertops for decades to come. Contact us today to schedule your sealing service or ask about the best care plan for your countertops!

Explore how to choose the right countertop for your kitchen remodel, considering style, durability, maintenance, and functionality to transform your space.

When planning a kitchen or bathroom renovation, one detail that often flies under the radar is countertop thickness —but it plays a big role in the final look, feel, and functionality of your space. For granite and quartz, two of the most popular materials on the market, thickness isn't just about aesthetics—it's about strength, durability, support requirements, and installation. Let’s break it down. The Granite Gold Standard: 3 cm Granite countertops are almost universally installed at a 3 cm thickness (about 1 1/4 inches) . Why? It’s simple— 3 cm granite is strong enough to be installed without an underlayment in most cases. Granite is a natural stone and, while incredibly durable, it can be brittle when too thin. At 3 cm, it strikes the perfect balance between strength and elegance. Pros of 3 cm Granite: No plywood support needed under most areas. Sturdier and more resistant to cracking or breaking. Substantial, high-end appearance. Things to keep in mind: Supports are typically required for longer overhangs (like breakfast bars or islands) to ensure stability and prevent flexing or cracking. Heavier weight may slightly increase installation effort. Quartz: 2 cm or 3 cm—What’s the Difference? Unlike granite, quartz countertops are engineered , meaning they’re made from a mix of natural quartz and resin. This allows for multiple thickness options —the most common being: 3 cm quartz (1 1/4 inches) 2 cm quartz (3/4 inch) Why the Variety? Because quartz is manufactured, it can be made thinner than granite without sacrificing too much integrity. 2 cm quartz offers more flexibility for certain designs and budgets , while 3 cm remains ideal for heavy-use areas . 2 cm vs. 3 cm Quartz: A Detailed Look at Pros and Cons 3 cm Quartz Pros: Durability & Strength: Thicker material offers more resistance to chips, cracks, and flexing—ideal for high-use areas like kitchens and laundry rooms. No Plywood Underlayment Needed: Can be installed directly on cabinets, simplifying the installation process and potentially saving on labor and materials. Luxury Aesthetic: The thicker edge creates a more substantial, premium look that aligns well with high-end or traditional design styles. Better for Decorative Edge Profiles: With more material to work with, fabricators have greater flexibility for creating detailed edge treatments like ogee or bullnose. Cons: Heavier Weight: More challenging to maneuver and install, particularly in second-story installations or tight spaces. Higher Material Cost: Uses more quartz, which can raise the overall price per square foot, although the increase is often moderate. Added Weight on Cabinetry: In some cases—particularly with older or less sturdy cabinets—additional support may be recommended to handle the weight safely. 2 cm Quartz Pros: Lighter and Easier to Handle: Makes it a great choice for installations on upper floors or where maneuverability is limited. Cost-Effective: Less material means a lower price per square foot, and potentially reduced labor costs for vertical applications. Ideal for Vertical Surfaces: Perfect for full-height backsplashes, wall cladding, fireplace surrounds, and shower installations where a lighter slab is easier to mount. Modern Aesthetic: The thinner profile creates a clean, contemporary look, especially when paired with simple edge styles. Cons: More Fragile if Unsupported: More susceptible to breakage, especially near cutouts or unsupported spans, if not properly reinforced. Edge Limitations: Fewer options for thicker or more decorative edges without extra fabrication. May Require Laminate Edges: To mimic the look of 3 cm, a laminated front edge (where two strips are glued together) is often used. This adds time, cost, and introduces a visible seam. Installation Tip: Don’t Skip the Dishwasher Brackets We always recommend adding dishwasher brackets , even though they’re an optional upgrade. These brackets help anchor the countertop securely over the dishwasher, especially important when opening and closing the appliance regularly. They offer extra peace of mind and long-term stability —a small investment that protects your countertop and cabinetry over time. When to Choose Each Thickness Choose 3 cm for: Kitchen countertops, islands, bathrooms, and laundry rooms—any space where strength and durability matter most. Choose 2 cm for: Backsplashes, vertical applications, or furniture-style pieces where weight and thickness aren’t as critical. And remember, any countertop with a significant overhang—regardless of thickness—should have proper support brackets for safety and longevity. The Bottom Line Countertop thickness isn't just a design choice—it's a structural one. Whether you’re working with natural granite or engineered quartz, choosing the right thickness means your counters will not only look amazing, but stand up to everyday life. Need help deciding what's best for your space? Let us know—we’re happy to walk you through it!

The combination of beauty, resilience, and low upkeep means the countertop will continue to perform and look attractive for years.

Wonder why granite countertops stay popular? Read on or contact GML Granite Inc, the countertop company, for timeless durability!