Last Updated on June 4, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
There are many different types of countertops that you can choose from when remodeling your kitchen. Two of the most popular options are quartz and granite. Both have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it can be difficult to decide which is the best option for you. In this blog post, we will compare quartz and granite countertops and help you decide which is the best option for your home!
Quartz countertops.
There are many reasons to love quartz countertops. They’re beautiful, durable, and easy to care for. But what exactly is quartz?
Quartz is a mineral that is found in many different types of rock. It’s made up of silicon and oxygen, and it’s one of the most abundant minerals on Earth.
Quartz countertops are made from a process that begins with mining quartz from the ground. The quartz is then crushed into a powder and mixed with other materials to create a solid slab.
Quartz countertops are incredibly hard, which makes them perfect for kitchens. They’re also non-porous, so they’re resistant to stains and easy to keep clean.
Pros of Quartz countertops:
-Quartz is a very strong and durable material, making it an ideal choice for countertops. It is also heat resistant and can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for use in kitchens.
-Quartz countertops are also non-porous, meaning they resist stains and are easy to keep clean.
-Quartz is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it easy to find a style that suits your taste.
-Quartz countertops are also low maintenance and do not require sealing or polishing like other types of countertops.
Cons of Quartz countertops:
Quartz countertops have a few disadvantages that should be considered before making a final decision.
First, quartz is more expensive than other countertop materials like laminate or tile. It is also one of the heaviest countertop materials, so it may require additional support if installed in an existing kitchen.
Second, quartz can be difficult to repair if it is damaged.
Third, unlike natural stone countertops, quartz countertops are not heat resistant and can be damaged by hot pans or pots.
Fourth, Quartz is a man-made product, so it may not have the same appeal as natural stone for some homeowners.
Granite countertops.
What are granite countertops?
Granite is a natural stone that is quarried from the earth. It is then cut into slabs and installed on countertops. Granite is a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops because it is durable and easy to care for.
There are many different types of granite, each with its own unique color and pattern. Granite is a relatively affordable material, and it can last for many years with proper care.
Pros of granite countertops:
-Granite countertops are heat resistant.
-Granite countertops are very durable.
-Granite countertops are easy to clean.
-Granite countertops can add value to your home.
Cons of granite countertops:
-Granite is a very hard material, and it can be difficult to work with if you’re not experienced.
-Granite is also a porous material, so it needs to be sealed regularly in order to prevent staining.
-Granite countertops can be quite costly, depending on the type of granite you choose.
-Granite is also susceptible to chipping and cracking, so it’s important to be careful with it.
Quartz countertops vs. Granite countertops
Appearance.
It is important to many homeowners that their countertops make a statement in their kitchen. And while both quartz and granite can provide that “wow” factor, they each have unique appearances.
Granite countertops are 100% natural stone, so no two counters will ever look exactly alike. Each piece of granite has its own veining, color, and patterns.
Quartz countertops are man-made from about 90% ground quartz stone and the remaining percentage made up of polymers, resins, and pigments. This combination creates a non-porous surface that is available in many colors and designs.
So, when it comes to appearance, it really comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a more unique countertop, granite might be the way to go. If you prefer a wide range of colors and designs, quartz may be the better option.
Color.
It’s one of the first things you notice about a countertop. And it can be a make-or-break factor in your decision between quartz and granite.
Granite comes in a wide variety of colors, from light to dark, and everything in between. Quartz is manmade, so it can be created in any color imaginable.
If you’re looking for a specific color, chances are good that you’ll find it in granite. But if you want something truly unique, quartz is the way to go.
Price.
When it comes to price, quartz countertops are typically more expensive than granite countertops. The average cost of quartz countertops is $75 per square foot, while the average cost of granite countertops is $50 per square foot.
However, there are a few factors that can affect the price of either type of countertop. For example, the type of edge you choose for your countertop can add to the cost. Additionally, the size and shape of your countertop can also affect the price. If you have a complex countertop design, it may be more expensive than a simpler design.
Finally, the quality of the materials can also affect the price. Higher quality quartz and granite will usually be more expensive than lower quality options.
So, when it comes to price, quartz countertops are typically more expensive than granite countertops.
Durability.
When it comes to durability, quartz countertops are far superior to granite. Quartz is harder than granite and more resistant to scratches and stains. Granite is a softer stone and can be scratched or stained easily.
Quartz is also more heat resistant than granite, so you can place hot pots and pans on it without worry. Granite can be damaged by heat, so you’ll need to use a hot pad.
So, when it comes to durability, quartz countertops are the clear winner. If you’re looking for a countertop that will last for years, quartz is the way to go. Granite may be cheaper upfront, but it will need to be replaced sooner than quartz.
Repairs And Replacements.
When it comes to repairing or replacing your countertops, quartz is the clear winner. Granite is much more susceptible to chips and cracks, and repairs can be expensive. With quartz, all you need to do is sand down the damaged area and re-seal it. Quartz is also non-porous, so it doesn’t require annual sealing like granite does.
If you do need to replace your quartz countertop, it’s a relatively easy process. The entire countertop can be removed and replaced in a few hours. With granite, you run the risk of damaging your cabinets or floors when removing the old countertop.
Maintenance.
It is important to maintain your countertops to extend their lifespan. Granite countertops need to be sealed every six months to a year, depending on the brand of sealer used. Quartz countertops do not need to be sealed. You should still wipe up spills as soon as possible and avoid using harsh chemicals on quartz countertops, as they can damage the surface.
To clean granite countertops, use a mild soap and water solution. You can also buy a granite cleaner from most home improvement stores. Quartz countertops can be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution or a commercial glass cleaner. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface of quartz countertops.
Heat Resistance.
There are many factors to consider when choosing a countertop material, and heat resistance is one of the most important. Both quartz and granite are excellent choices in this regard, but there are some subtle differences between the two materials.
Quartz is slightly more heat resistant than granite, meaning it can withstand higher temperatures for longer periods of time without being damaged. This makes quartz a good choice for kitchens where there is a lot of cooking, or for homes in hot climates.
Granite, on the other hand, is slightly less heat resistant than quartz. However, granite is still an excellent choice for countertops and can withstand high temperatures without being damaged.
Scratch resistance.
Quartz is harder than granite, making it less susceptible to scratches. However, both quartz and granite are strong and durable materials that can withstand years of use without showing significant wear.
Home Resale Value.
As a homeowner, you want to choose materials for your home that will add the most value. When it comes to countertops, you may be wondering if quartz or granite will give you the best return on investment.
Here’s a look at the resale value of both quartz and granite countertops:
Quartz countertops are one of the most popular choices for homeowners today. They are beautiful, durable, and easy to care for. Quartz countertops will add value to your home, but they may not give you the highest return on investment.
Granite countertops are also a popular choice among homeowners. Granite is a natural stone that adds beauty and elegance to any home. Granite countertops will also add value to your home, but they may not give you the highest return on investment.
So, which countertop is the best choice for you? If you’re looking for the highest return on investment, granite countertops are the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a beautiful and durable countertop that is easy to care for, quartz countertops are a great choice.
No matter which countertop you choose, you can be sure that you’re adding value to your home.
Fabrication.
When it comes to fabrication, both quartz and granite countertops have their own unique benefits. Quartz is man-made, so it can be customized to your specific needs and wants.
Quartz is also non-porous, meaning that it won’t absorb liquids or stains like granite can. Granite, on the other hand, is a natural stone that is heat resistant and very durable. It’s also easy to clean and maintain.
DIY Installation.
One of the most popular home improvement projects is installing new countertops. Homeowners have many choices when it comes to countertop materials, including quartz and granite. Both options have their pros and cons, but quartz countertops may be the better choice for some homeowners.
Quartz countertops are made from natural stone that is crushed and mixed with pigments and resins. This creates a strong and durable countertop that is available in a wide range of colors. Quartz countertops are also non-porous, which means they are resistant to stains and easy to keep clean.
Granite countertops are also made from natural stone, but they are not as strong as quartz. Granite is also a porous material, which means it can absorb stains and spills. Granite countertops require sealing every few years to keep them looking their best.
Quartz countertops are a great choice for homeowners who want a durable and low-maintenance countertop. However, granite countertops may be the better choice for those who want a unique look for their home.
If you’re considering installing new countertops in your home, quartz may be the better choice. Quartz countertops are strong and durable, and they come in a wide range of colors.
Environmental Issues.
Quartz is a man-made material, so it has a smaller carbon footprint than granite. However, granite is a natural material, so it can be recycled more easily.
Quartz countertops vs. Granite countertops: Final Verdict.
It’s the age-old question: quartz or granite countertops? Which one is better? Here, we’ll settle the debate once and for all.
Quartz countertops are manmade, while granite countertops are natural. Quartz is more durable and less likely to stain than granite. Granite, on the other hand, is heat resistant and has a more natural look.
So, which one should you choose? It really depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for durability and low maintenance, quartz is the way to go. But if you prefer a natural look and feel, granite is the better choice. Ultimately, the decision is yours!
FAQs
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
The answer to this question really depends on a few factors, including the quality of the granite and quartz, the company you’re working with, and the specific project you have in mind. In general, quartz is going to be more expensive than granite, but there are definitely ways to save money on both materials.
Are quartz countertops safer than granite?
The jury is still out on this one. Some say that quartz is a safer option because it is non-porous, meaning that bacteria and other contaminants can’t penetrate the surface. Granite, on the other hand, is a porous material, which means that it can absorb liquids and harbor bacteria.
Which countertop material has a better seam?
Granite countertops are less likely to show seams than quartz, making them a more popular choice for homeowners. However, both materials have their pros and cons when it comes to seam visibility.
Which is easier to maintain quartz or granite countertops?
Granite countertops are often thought of as being more difficult to maintain than quartz countertops.