I don't have an answer so I didn't vote but I have questions.

I thought marble is porous, so can it be sealed and if it is does it need to be regularly resealed?

I thought porcelain is hardwearing, but I have seen posts by people who have had problems with porcelain and subsequently been told it needed sealing which surprised me, doesn't it come already sealed?

Ease of cleaning would be a major factor for my choice. Appearance obviously matters too and that's where budget might make a difference. If I had an unlimited budget I would choose based on practicality and looks but not on a reputation for 'luxury'.

Hey Macy, Your dead on right, marble is porous and does need to be sealed though does need regular upkeep to maintain its luster. It can be costly though to do this and can only do this so many times until the marble is worn down. Though even when sealed marble can still easily stain and the sealing isn't always full proof.

Porcelain however is a lot more forgiving and isn't porous. Can easily clean and allows for the stronger chemicals like bleach to be used when things get out of hand in the bathroom or kitchen. The main issue is probably grouting and despite what you install the grout will always age and look tired. The advantage with porcelain though is you can continue to clean the grout and tile and not worry about damaging the tile like you do with marble and other porous materials.

I've seen many of my clients spend thousands of dollars on marble in high traffic and wet areas when porcelain can achieve the same result without the stress of stains and cleaning.

My advice is choose carefully and use marble as a feature rather than in high traffic areas, wet zones and where it cleaning will be an issue.

Refer to the more info link under the poll photo for more info.

Thanks Paul

Marble has taken the lead ! Keep the votes coming.

Porcelain looks like it's the goto. Anymore votes?

Completely Agree on all fronts Moss Furniture. Both have there place but yes high traffic and food, water areas porcelain such a great alternative to marble.