Choosing Granite vs. Quartz Countertops
One of the much-debated topics of kitchen design centers around which countertop material is better: granite or quartz? Is there one that’s truly better than the other, or is it simply personal preference? We’re pitting granite vs. quartz in five specific categories to see who the real countertop king is. Before we get into all of that though, what exactly is granite and quartz?
What is Granite?
Granite is 100% natural and very durable. It’s mined from quarries from around the world so no two granite countertops will look exactly the same. After the slabs are mined, they are cut down to size, and polished to a high sheen. Granite is scratch and heat resistant and, if properly sealed, stain resistant as well.
What is Quartz?
Quartz isn’t 100% natural. Instead, quartz countertops are manufactured using 95% ground natural quartz and 5% polymer resins. The surface is durable and, unlike granite, non-porous. Like granite, quartz has a sheen finish, but doesn’t require sealing.
Granite vs. Quartz
Now that you know the basics, let’s look at granite vs. quartz in five different categories.
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Appearance
Granite: As explained earlier, granite is completely natural and comes in limitless colors and patterns. In fact, no two granite countertops are the same, so if you’re looking for something truly unique, then granite is the way to go. However, you may have to search for a bit to find something that matches your color scheme.
Quartz: Quartz has the look of stone, but unlike granite, the color and pattern of quartz can be customized. With quartz it’ll be easier for you to get exactly what you want, without having to search through granite slabs.
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Price
Granite: According to HomeAdviser.com, it can cost anywhere from $40 to $70 per square foot to have granite installed. Consult with a kitchen design specialist, like the team at Special Additions, who can help you find the perfect granite countertop for your kitchen and have it professionally installed.
Quartz: According to HomeAdvisor.com, it can cost anywhere from $60 to $100 per square foot to install quartz countertops. Pricing varies based on material, color, edging, and overall design requirements. Again, it’s best to consult with a kitchen design specialist and let qualified professionals handle the installation.
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Sustainability
Granite: If you’re concerned about choosing an “eco-friendly” countertop, then consider where it comes from and how it’s processed. Quarrying granite, for example, requires a great deal of energy. If you choose a high-end slab from another country like Italy or Spain, then there’s the transportation to consider. To lessen the environmental impact of granite, choose from slabs that are sourced in the United States.
Quartz: Quartz is the more eco-friendly option since it’s regionally manufactured and doesn’t need to be transported over great distances.
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Maintenance
Granite: After installation, your granite countertops should be sealed, which is simple to do. First, apply the sealer to the entire surface of your countertop and rub it in with a cloth rag. Wait two hours and repeat. Do this once a year to prevent your granite from staining. For daily maintenance, wash with soap and water or a mild household cleaner.
Quartz: Clean your quartz countertops with soap and water or a household cleaner once a day and you’re done. No sealant necessary.
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Durability
Granite: Granite is a durable material that’s heat and scratch resistant. Due to its porous nature though, granite can stain if spills are left to sit for too long. It can also be damaged if it sustains a high-impact blow.
Quartz: Quartz is harder and more durable than granite. In fact, quartz is nearly indestructible. The one thing that can damage it is heat, so never put hot pans or dishes directly on your quartz countertop.
If you have questions about what kitchen countertop material would be right for your home, then contact Special Additions. We carry a wide selection of countertops made from quartz, granite, wood, soapstone, and more. Our design staff will work with you step-by-step—from the initial meeting to installation—to ensure you are satisfied.