GRANITE VS QUARTZ: A QUICK COMPARISON OF THE TOP COUNTERTOPS

Granite and quartz are the most popular materials for countertops. They both offer an excellent appearance and superb durability. It is not easy to choose between the two and choices are often based on personal preference. It is better to understand each material to know which suits your purposes the best.

Solid or engineered

Granite counters are from pure stone sawed into slabs or made into tiles. These are then polished before getting installed. Quartz counters are from 92-94{6005fe00238ed0ec29dcf4f9ca8b03a9042cdf9ccd9cfcf46fbf772e3d1d5bdd} crushed quartz mixed with pigment and resin. Choose granite if you prefer authentic stone or natural material countertops. Some people consider its flaws as a character that adds up to its natural beauty.

Appearance

Although both granite and quartz offer a striking appearance, there are some differences. Granite has slight natural variations in the stone hue. You can see various colors such as earth tones, blues, greens, and roses on it. Quartz has more consistency when it comes to colors because manufacturers add pigments. There are more options available at graniteselection.com. Both are great looking and choosing which is better is a matter of choice.

Durability

Both are tough and durable enough to last for several decades. Natural granite has a slight weakness in this category. It needs proper installation and professionals must seal it well. It needs regular resealing to ensure its high-quality. Quartz does not need this level of maintenance. Granite, like most natural stone countertops, stains easier than quartz. Although granite is resistant to stain, its resistance is not as great as that of quartz. Granite can crack and chip easier than engineered stone. Both materials are very durable but quartz has a slight edge over granite.

Ease of cleaning

Granite is a natural stone with pores and tiny capillaries within the minerals. They make granite prone to staining and germ buildup. The non-porous surface of quartz does not collect bacteria and viruses. Natural stone can keep germs out when sealed well, but there can be issues when the sealant breaks down. Mild cleansers are enough for quartz while granite needs harsher cleansers.

Cost

Granite and quartz have almost the same price range. Quartz costs around $80 to $140 per square foot installed. Granite goes for as low as $80 and up to $175. Granite can cost higher for high-end materials.

Environment-friendly

The production of natural granite countertops produces fewer carbon emissions than quartz countertops. None of them emits significant amounts of radon or volatile organic compounds. Both are eco-friendly but granite has a bit of advantage.