Granite and quartz are two of the most popular countertop materials on the market today. Many homeowners find themselves trying to decide between these two options when remodeling their kitchens or bathrooms. Granite and quartz each have their own sets of pros and cons to consider before making a choice. This article provides an in-depth comparison of granite versus quartz countertops to help you determine which is the better option for your needs.
Appearance
When it comes to aesthetics, granite and quartz offer quite different visual styles:
Granite
Granite countertops showcase the natural beauty of stone with visually striking patterns and colors. No two granite slabs are exactly alike due to the natural variations within the stone. Granite offers a one-of-a-kind look that ranges from solid colors to bold patterns with speckles, veining, and movement. The natural patterning gives granite a charming, Old World appeal.
Quartz
Quartz countertops provide a more uniform, consistent appearance than natural stone. Made from ground quartz crystals combined with pigments and resin, quartz has an elegant, high-end look. The color and pattern options are vast, however quartz lacks the unique detailing found in natural granite. The overall aesthetic tends to be more modern and streamlined.
So in terms of visual appeal, granite offers rare natural beauty while quartz provides sleek, contemporary style. It comes down to personal taste and the look you want to achieve. Those desiring a striking, unique focal point often lean towards granite. For a cleaner, tailored aesthetic, quartz frequently gets the nod.
Durability
Durability is a prime consideration for countertops. You want a material that can stand up to years of use without becoming damaged or worn. Here’s how granite and quartz compare:
Granite
As a natural stone, granite is incredibly hard and durable. It’s heat, scratch, and chip resistant. However, granite can be prone to stains from spills, especially oily foods like wine or tomato sauce. Sealing the granite annually can help prevent stains. Granite is also susceptible to chips and cracks if subjected to a heavy impact. But with proper care, granite countertops can remain in great condition for decades.
Quartz
Quartz has an extremely high resilience and durability thanks to its engineered composition. It’s non-porous so it won’t harbor bacteria or need frequent sealing. Quartz is essentially stain proof and can be cleaned with just soap and water. It’s also heat resistant. In terms of scratches and chips, quartz holds up even better than granite. The resin makes quartz more flexible so chips rarely occur. Any scratches that do form over time are less noticeable than on granite.
Overall, quartz offers outstanding durability that exceeds natural stone. It’s easy maintenance and stain resistance give it the edge. But granite isn’t far behind when properly sealed and cared for.
Cost
Budget plays a key role when selecting countertop materials. Here’s what to expect in terms of cost:
Granite
Mid-range to high-end. Granite starts around $40 per square foot installed. Unique granite slabs with premium patterns and colors can cost $80-$150 per square foot. The finishing edges, thickness, and contractor fees also impact overall price.
Quartz
Mid-range. Quartz starts around $70 per square foot installed and ranges up to $110 per square foot for high-end brands. The color, pattern, and thickness drive price fluctuations. Integrated sinks and special cutting requests also increase costs.
In general, quartz runs about 20-30% higher than granite. Homeowners on tight budgets may find better value in granite. But for many, quartz offers reasonable pricing given its superb durability and easy maintenance. Those wanting high-end aesthetics without breaking the bank often turn to quartz.
Maintenance
Proper care keeps countertops looking like new over time. Here’s how granite and quartz differ regarding maintenance:
Granite
Granite requires sealing every 1-2 years with a stone sealer. This prevents stains from penetrating the surface. Spills should be wiped up quickly, especially wine, oil, etc. Harsh cleaners and scrubbing pads should be avoided. General cleaning just involves soap, water, and a soft cloth. Deep conditioning is needed periodically. More maintenance is required compared to quartz.
Quartz
Maintenance is minimal with quartz. No sealing is required, just the occasional use of a stone cleaner to keep the surface pristine. Quartz can be cleaned with just a damp cloth and mild soap. No need to worry about harsh cleaners or chemicals damaging the surface. The resilient resin keeps quartz looking fresh with very little care.
Clearly, quartz is the hassle-free choice requiring virtually no maintenance. Granite needs more routine care and vigilance against stains. Those wanting an easy-care countertop will favor quartz. Homeowners comfortable doing regular sealing and conditioning may view granite’s upkeep as acceptable.
Which is Better – Granite or Quartz? Key Takeaways
- Appearance – Granite offers rare natural beauty while quartz has a sleek, contemporary aesthetic. Choose based on your personal style.
- Durability – Quartz is slightly more durable and stain resistant. But properly sealed granite also holds up very well. Both are great options.
- Cost – Quartz runs about 20-30% higher than granite on average. Granite offers better value for budget-minded buyers.
- Maintenance – Quartz requires minimal maintenance compared to granite’s regular sealing needs.
- Longevity – With proper care, both granite and quartz can retain their beauty for decades in the kitchen.
- Resale Value – Granite and quartz are likely to have similar appeal to home buyers down the road.
Neither material has a clear advantage across all categories. Evaluate your priorities to determine if granite or quartz best fits your lifestyle and goals. For natural stone beauty, go with granite. For minimal maintenance, durability, and a contemporary look, choose quartz. Whichever you select, you can enjoy stunning, functional countertops that provide years of joy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Granite vs. Quartz Countertops
Which is more expensive, granite or quartz?
Quartz countertops tend to run about 20-30% higher in cost compared to granite. Granite starts around $40 per square foot installed, while quartz starts around $70. However, granite can reach higher prices than quartz for rare, premium slabs.
Is quartz stronger than granite?
Quartz is slightly stronger and more flexible than granite, making it more resistant to chips and scratches. The resin in quartz allows it to flex rather than crack under pressure. Both materials have excellent durability though with proper care and maintenance.
Is granite or quartz better for kitchen countertops?
For kitchen countertops, both granite and quartz make superb options. Quartz requires little maintenance and is nearly stain proof, making it a great choice for busy kitchens. But granite brings unmatched natural beauty and style when properly sealed and maintained. Choose based on your priorities – easy care or distinctive styling.
Does quartz stain like granite?
Due to granite’s porous nature, it can absorb stains from spills if not sealed properly. Quartz’s non-porous surface makes it essentially stain proof without the need for sealing. This gives quartz the advantage in resisting stains. But sealing granite annually greatly improves its stain resistance.
Is quartz or granite more scratch resistant?
Quartz resists scratches better than granite since its resin binder makes it more flexible. Granite will show fine surface scratches over time with regular use. But both materials resist scratches well compared to other countertop materials. Neither material is scratch proof.
Does granite or quartz add more value to a home?
Granite and quartz kitchen countertops typically add similar resale value to a home. They are both viewed as high-end, luxury materials that will appeal to buyers. As long as the countertops are kept in good condition, they should retain their value and support higher home prices when selling.
Conclusion
While no material is perfect, granite and quartz each have their own sets of advantages that make them premier choices for countertops. With its rare natural beauty and timeless elegance, granite brings a sense of luxury. For those desiring minimal upkeep and a contemporary style, quartz offers quality looks paired with extreme durability. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each to determine which stone best complements your home and lifestyle. Either option will likely serve you well for many years when properly cared for. If selecting between the two outstanding materials, you can’t go wrong.