Granite vs Quartz Countertops: The Ultimate Decision Is Here!
If you want to renovate your kitchen by adding newer counters, granite, and quartz are certainly close to the top of your list of possible materials. They are both smooth and of good quality, and their timeless elegance and robust endurance favor homeowners.
The following comparisons can help you choose the one most suitable for your style, budget, and requirements. Read more to view these two popular countertops, granite versus quartz, head to head.
Granite Vs Quartz Countertops: What Are They?
Granite is the most popular igneous rock and a natural stone, used for making items for everyday use and effective identification.
It is a coarse-grained, light-colored rock. Mainly quartz and feldspars with several quantities of amphibole and mica make this natural stone up.
The granules are tougher than marble. Granites are called “granite” by those from the granite sector who make, sell, and acquire cut sheets for further usage.
Quartz countertops are manufactured by human beings and comprise quartz chips or quartz dust linked with resin. The composition usually consists of around 90-95% quartz to 5-10% resin.
Quartz countertops with chips have a rough, rough look, as you can see each stone hanging in the wax. The colors here are unlimited because resins may be colored to any nuance, and the quartz may be as uniform or colorful as you like.
6 Main Differences Between Granite & Quartz Countertops
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Appearance
The one advantage of granite over a manufactured pier is that each granite plate differs somewhat in its mineral pattern and color, making it distinctive. As an engineered material, quartz countertops seem more evenly, however, there are various hues and distinct patterns, including shapes that do not resemble granite.
It is a question of personal preference to choose. If you want the appearance of natural stone, pick the genuinely natural substance – granite. Others choose quartz countertops because of the greater choice of designs and colors available. Quartz countertops are available in designs that mimic the look of high-end marble at a reduced cost because they are artificial.
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Cost
There’s no denying that granite and quartz are high-end, high-priced countertop materials. These are not the countertop materials for you if you are on a budget.
Installed granite countertops range from $80 to $175 per square foot. The cost varies depending on the style chosen and the type of edging treatments needed. Installed quartz countertops cost between $80 and $140 per square foot. Basic countertop costs have decreased as quartz has become more popular and widely available, with distinctive designer designs and hues fetching higher-end prices.
Because both types of countertops are imported from overseas, prices vary. All of these items are transported by container across oceans, which is reliant on petroleum costs. Import taxes and other variables might influence the price as well.
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Durability & Maintenance
There’s a reason why stone surfaces are so common in kitchens. Granite is sometimes referred to as the most durable natural countertop material available. It is resistant to cracks and chipping. Quartz has a somewhat greater hardness and is slightly more resistant to damage than a man-made stone.
With moderate soap and water, both countertop materials may be cleaned. Quartz surfaces may also be cleaned with gentle chemicals, although some all-purpose cleaners may be too abrasive for granite. To best maintain the surface, use a granite-specific cleaning ($6, Target). Spills should be cleaned up as quickly as possible to avoid stains.
Quartz countertops are stain-resistant, but you can usually wipe them off using a glass cleaner and a non-abrasive sponge if you do get a stain. Remove stains from granite using a granite stain remover, which will take the stain from the surface without scrubbing.
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Environmental Issues
When it comes to upgrading their houses, today’s customers seek to make the most environmentally friendly decisions possible. Quartz countertops have a lower carbon impact than other countertop materials.
Many of these goods are made from recycled materials, and the production process is less harmful to the environment. Granite must be mined from the earth and then transported around the world to the production facility. While quartz is mined and supplied to the United States from other countries, one business undertakes its processing in the United States.
When it comes down to it, both of these stone countertops need a significant amount of energy to manufacture and excavate. However, on the other hand, they are both highly sturdy and may last a lifetime if properly cared for. In this way, they may be considered a long-lasting countertop that may endure the entire lifetime of the house.
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Value
Both of these materials are high-end construction materials that will impress potential purchasers. Granite and quartz countertops may increase your property’s value marginally compared to laminate or ceramic tile worktops. Because granite is a more natural stone, some purchasers may give it a minor edge.
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Installation
Because granite and quartz countertops are exceedingly heavy and difficult to handle, they should be installed by a professional. Cutting holes for the sink is also a complicated operation.
Granite and quartz are both heavy materials, and even a 36-inch countertop may weigh over 100 pounds. It is recommended that you hire a professional to fabricate and install your countertop. Granite and quartz countertops are set in the same way if you prefer to do it yourself.
This video provides a clearer guide for those who wish to install their countertop at home:
FAQs
What is the best thickness for quartz countertops?
Most countertop fabricators, designers, and architects recommend a thickness of three millimeters for both quartz and granite counters. It is the most durable, has the greatest size versatility, and has the most color selections. Without the need for plywood, 3CM material may be placed directly on top of the cabinets.
Can I put a hot pan on granite?
Yes, indeed. While momentary contact with a hot pan will not harm your granite countertop, it is advised that you use a trivet regularly. The presence of this barrier between a hot pan and your countertop will aid in the prevention of sealant deterioration, discoloration, and cracking.
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Conclusion
Most of us will only renovate our homes once, so we want to get it right the first time. We want something that fits into our hectic schedule is low-maintenance and leaves a lasting impact on us every time we enter the kitchen.
When it comes to making the ultimate selection, there is no such thing as a bad option; it is just a matter of personal preference. If you go with either granite or quartz, you’ll have a wonderful countertop. You can’t go wrong as long as you choose the one that you enjoy the most.
