Have you finally decided that it’s time to upgrade your old, scratched-up countertops? After days of research, you’ve landed on marble as your material of choice. But there’s just one problem: you can’t decide whether you want honed or polished marble.
On the one hand, polished marble looks sleek and elegant. But on the other hand, honed marble has a more matte look that you’re digging. So which one should you choose?
The answer, of course, depends on your personal preferences and the overall style of your home. In this blog post, we’ll break down the key differences between honed vs. polished marble and the pros and cons of each. By the end, you should have a much better idea of which one is right for you.
What Is Honed Marble?
Honed marble is simply marble that has been ground down to create a smooth, matte finish. Unlike polished marble with a shiny surface, honed marble has a more muted appearance. This type of marble is becoming increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more homeowners are drawn to its unique look.
Pros of Honed Marble
There are plenty of reasons to love honed marble. For one, it’s much more resistant to scratches and other types of damage than polished marble. Also, this may be better for you if you have kids or pets.
Honed marble is also less slippery than polished marble, making it a good choice for areas with a lot of foot traffic, like kitchens and bathrooms. And because it doesn’t show fingerprints and smudges as quickly as polished marble, it requires less maintenance.
Cons of Honed Marble
One downside of honed marble is that because it’s not polished, it’s more susceptible to staining than polished marble. So if you’re planning to use it in your kitchen, use placemats and coasters to protect it from spills.
Honed marble is also more likely to show imperfections, like cracks and chips. So if you’re looking for a flawless surface, this may not be the right material.
Best Uses for Honed Marble
Honed marble is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. It’s also a good option for people who want a matte look with a velvety satin finish for their home.
What is Polished Marble?
Polished marble is marble that has been ground down and then polished to create a shiny, reflective surface. This type of marble is very popular in traditional homes as it has a classic and timeless look.
Pros of Polished Marble
Polished marble is much easier to clean than honed marble because it’s more stain-resistant. You need a little water and soap, and you’re good to go.
It’s also less likely to show scratches and other forms of wear and tear. So if you’re looking for a surface that will stay looking new for years, polished marble is a great option.
Cons of Polished Marble
One downside of polished marble is that it’s more slippery than honed marble. This can be a safety hazard in areas with a lot of foot traffic, like kitchens and bathrooms.
Best Uses for Polished Marble
Polished marble is a great choice for traditional homes. It’s also a good option for people who want a glossy look and prioritize stain resistance. This is an excellent choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and walls.
Key Differences Between Honed and Polished Marble
Now that we’ve gone over the pros and cons of both honed and polished marble let’s take a closer look at the key differences between the two.
Appearance
Polished marble has a shiny, glossy reflective surface, while honed marble has a more satin and velvety matte finish.
Maintenance
Polished marble is easier to clean and maintain than honed marble. With polished marble, you don’t need to seal it as often, and it doesn’t absorb stains as quickly as honed marble.
Resistance to Damage
- Honed marble is more resistant to scratches and other types of damage than polished marble.
- On the other hand, polished marble is more resistant to staining.
- Honed marble is more heat resistant
Slip Resistance
Honed marble is less slippery, making it a better choice for areas with a lot of foot traffic. Plus, it’s better if you install it as a flooring option.
Stain Resistance
Polished marble is more resistant to staining since it’s less porous than honed marble.
Key Similarities Between Honed and Polished Marble
Now that we’ve gone over the key differences between honed and polished marble let’s take a closer look at the similarities between the two.
- Both types of marble are available in a wide range of colors and patterns.
- Both types of marble require regular sealing to protect them from stains and other damage.
- Both types of marble are susceptible to etching from acidic substances.
Which One Should You Go With?
The answer to this question depends on your personal preferences. If you’re looking for a surface that’s a little easier to clean and maintain, polished marble is a great choice. However, honed marble may be better if you’re more concerned about durability and slip resistance.
Final Thoughts
There are pros and cons to both honed and polished marble. So it’s important to weigh your options and decide which is best for your needs. For example, polished marble is a great choice if you’re looking for a surface that’s easier to clean and maintain. However, honed marble may be better if you’re more concerned about durability and slip resistance.
No matter which one you choose, both honed and polished marble can add a touch of elegance to your home! We hope this blog post has helped you understand the key differences between the two so that you can make an informed decision.
Have you ever used honed or polished marble in your home? Share your experience in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you.
