Cost Comparison Between Quartz and Granite Countertops
When evaluating countertop costs, it’s important to look at both material and installation charges. Here’s an overview:
Quartz Countertop Cost
- Material cost per square foot: Ranges from $50 to $100+. More affordable options start around $50 per square foot, while premium designer brands run $80 to $100+ per square foot.
- Installation cost per square foot: Averages $40 to $100 based on complexity of job. Simple countertop installations may run around $40, while intricate tile patterns or complex seams can cost up to $100 per square foot for installation labor.
- Total estimated cost: An average quality quartz countertop costs $100 to $150 per square foot installed. Higher-end quartz costs $120 to $200 per square foot installed.
Granite Countertop Cost
- Material cost per square foot: Runs $50 to $100 on average. More affordable granites can be found for $50 to $70 per square foot, while rare/exotic slabs run up to $100+.
- Installation cost per square foot: Similar to quartz at $40 to $100 per square foot for labor. Simple granite countertop installations cost around $40/sq.ft. Complex jobs run $70 to $100/sq.ft.
- Total estimated cost: Expect to pay $90 to $150 per square foot installed for granite. High-end or exotic granite may cost $120 to $200 per square foot installed.
Based on these averages, quartz and granite counters cost about the same on a total installed basis. The material price per square foot is similar, as is the labor charge for installation. Granite has a wider cost range, with more very affordable and very high-end options. Overall though, budgeting $100 to $150 per square foot installed will get you quality quartz or granite countertops in most cases.
Factors Impacting the Cost of Quartz vs. Granite
Though the base price is similar between quartz and granite, certain factors can sway the total price in either direction:
Differences Impacting Quartz Cost
- Color/pattern complexity – Solid color and single pattern quartz tends to be most affordable. Unique color blends or complex veining patterns cost more.
- Thicknesses offered – Standard quartz comes in 1.25 cm and 2 cm thicknesses. Thicker 3 cm options cost $20+/sq.ft. more.
- Brand – Premium designers like Cambria run $20+ per square foot higher than low-cost brands.
- Supply availability – Higher demand for popular colors can increase cost.
Differences Impacting Granite Cost
- Stone type and rarity – Exotic or rare granite imported from overseas costs more than domestic granite.
- Stone color – Vibrant blues, greens and reds are pricier than beiges, taupes, and blacks.
- Veining patterns – Complex veining increases cost. Granite with little to no veining costs less.
- Slab size – Larger granite slabs are exponentially more expensive. Smaller cut sizes keep costs in check.
- Thickness – 3 cm granite costs $25+ more per square foot versus 2 cm.
- Edge profiles – Decorative edges like ogees or eased profiles add $10 to $30 per linear foot.
In summary, while the base price is similar, unique colors, patterns, and slab sizes can make granite a more expensive option for some luxury projects.
Pros and Cons: Quartz vs. Granite Countertops
Beyond just cost, homeowners deciding between quartz and granite should also compare other factors like appearance, durability, and maintenance.
Quartz Countertop Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Seamless, uniform appearance since it’s engineered
- Stain and scratch resistant
- Easy maintenance – needs little sealing
- Durable but can chip on impact
- Thousands of colors and patterns
Cons:
- Less natural stone look than granite
- Needs resealing every 3-5 years
- Heat damage risk
- Can scorch if hot pans left directly on surface
Granite Countertop Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Timeless, natural beauty of real stone
- Unique veining patterns and colors
- Extremely durable and heat resistant
- Can last lifetime with proper sealing
- Often increases home value
Cons:
- Needs regular sealing every 1-2 years
- Natural stone can crack or chip if impacted
- Stains require specialty poultice cleaners
- Limited color/pattern options
Quartz offers more consistency and less maintenance, while granite provides a timeless, natural stone look. Homeowners need to weigh the pros and cons based on their priorities to choose the best option.
Bottom Line: Should I Choose Quartz or Granite?
The decision between quartz versus granite countertops relies heavily on your budget, durability needs, and aesthetic preferences.
If maximizing natural stone beauty and durability is the priority, then granite is potentially the better choice, provided upkeep and sealing is kept up with. Granite offers classically beautiful veining that has spanned generations of kitchens. It withstands heat well and resists scratches when sealed. The tradeoff is the need for regular sealing/conditioning and extra care with stains. Cost may also get prohibitive for exotic granite slabs.
For a lower maintenance, cutting-edge look, quartz often wins out. Engineered quartz requires little to no sealing and withstands scratches/stains. The consistent coloration provides a sleek, modern look. While durable, quartz can chip or scorch if abused. The manmade material lacks the depth and natural artistry that makes granite special. Costs are more predictable since quartz has set patterns versus unique granite slabs.
In terms of cost, quartz and granite are typically within the same budget range on an installed basis. Unique high-end granite slabs can skew prices higher than designer quartz options, but average quartz and granite prices are quite similar. Homeowners get more size, color, and pattern flexibility with granite since it’s a natural material.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does quartz staining or etching require full replacement?
No. Unlike natural stone, quartz can usually be scrubbed clean of stains and marks with the right cleaners and techniques. Only deep damage would require replacement.
Is quartz cheaper than granite where I live?
Pricing varies regionally, but material costs are similar nationwide. Total installed costs depend on local labor rates. Expect to pay $90 to $200 per square foot for either material in most areas.
Which is better in kitchens – quartz or granite?
It depends on your needs. Granite works beautifully in kitchens but requires diligent sealing. Quartz needs little maintenance but risks scorching. Both offer durability. Consider the pros/cons and opt for the material best aligned with your priorities.
Can very hot pans damage a quartz countertop?
Yes. While quartz withstands normal use, extremely hot pans directly from the stove or oven can potentially scorch the surface. Always use trivets or hot pads to avoid damaging quartz. Granite can withstand hot cookware better.
Does quartz come in as many colors and patterns as granite?
No. While quartz offers thousands of options, granite’s nature-made patterns offer more variation. Quartz colors and patterns are produced in factories, giving more uniformity versus granite’s artistic shifts. However, quartz does provide more control over the overall aesthetic.
The Bottom Line
When selecting between quartz and granite countertops, there are tradeoffs to consider in terms of cost, maintenance, durability, and aesthetics. For many homeowners, the decision comes down to quartz for low maintenance or granite for unparalleled natural beauty. By weighing the pros, cons, and cost differences, you can decide which material best suits your lifestyle and design vision. With proper care, either option can provide years of beauty and enjoyment as the focal point of your kitchen or bath.