When choosing a countertop material for your kitchen or bathroom, quartz and granite are two of the most popular options. But which one is better? Here’s a detailed comparison of quartz vs granite countertops to help you decide.
Durability
Both quartz and granite are very durable materials that can last for decades with proper care. However, quartz is non-porous, while granite is porous. This means that quartz resists stains, scratches, and heat better than natural stone. Quartz is virtually maintenance-free, while granite requires annual sealing to prevent stains from being absorbed. Overall, quartz offers superior durability.
Appearance
Granite has an elegant, natural beauty with unique veining and patterns. No two granite slabs are alike. Quartz offers a wide variety of colors and patterns too, but many are designed to mimic natural stone. However, the color and pattern in a quartz slab will be uniform. The appearance comes down to personal preference, but quartz offers more consistency.
Maintenance
As mentioned above, quartz requires very little maintenance – just wipe with a damp cloth to clean. Granite is porous and needs to be sealed once a year to prevent stains. It also needs to be cleaned with stone-safe cleaners. Acidic substances like wine or lemon juice can stain and etch granite. Quartz is essentially stain-proof when properly sealed during fabrication.
Heat Tolerance
Quartz hold up to heat much better than natural stone. Granite can crack or chip under extreme heat. Quartz can withstand brief exposure to hot pans without issue. For heavy duty cooking, granite or a butcher block surface may be a better choice than quartz.
Price
Quartz used to be more expensive than granite, but over the years, the price has come down significantly. There are now affordable quartz options available. Higher-end quartz may still cost more than granite. On average, expect to pay $80-100 per square foot installed for quartz and $60-80 for granite.
Availability
Both quartz and granite are widely available at home improvement stores and countertop suppliers. However, granite requires more lead time for slab selection and custom fabrication. Stock colors and sizes of quartz can often be fabricated and installed in just a few weeks. Rare granite varieties can take much longer.
Safety
Granite can pose some safety concerns that quartz does not have. Over time, granite can chip along the edges and develop cracks. These imperfections can harbor bacteria and make disinfecting difficult. The resin binding in quartz prevents bacterial growth. Granite is also very heavy, posing risks during transport and installation.
Environmentally Friendly
If green building is important, quartz is likely the better choice. Most quartz contains high percentages of recycled content. Granite quarrying has some negative environmental impacts. However, granite is a natural material, while quartz is engineered. Both offer eco-friendly attributes.
Conclusion
When choosing between quartz and granite, there is no definitive “better” option. Quartz offers superior durability, stain resistance, and maintenance ease. But some prefer granite’s natural beauty. Quartz works well in kitchens that get heavy daily use. Granite can make a bold statement as a focal point. Budget and personal style preferences will dictate the right choice. Consult with a kitchen designer to determine if quartz or granite best suits your needs and tastes. Either material can provide years of beauty and enjoyment when properly installed and cared for.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz vs Granite Countertops
Is quartz more durable than granite?
Yes. Quartz is engineered with resins that make it non-porous and highly resistant to scratches, stains, chips and heat. Granite is a natural stone that can chip or stain more easily. Quartz offers superior durability overall.
Does quartz need to be sealed like granite?
No, quartz does not require regular sealing. The resins make quartz non-porous so it does not need sealing agents applied. Granite must be sealed about once a year to prevent stains.
Which material is better for busy kitchens?
With its durability and stain resistance, quartz is the better choice for busy kitchens prone to spills, heavy prep work, and frequent cleaning. The low maintenance requirements also make quartz ideal for busy homeowners.
Can you set hot pots and pans on quartz?
Yes. Brief exposure to hot pans or baking sheets will not damage properly sealed quartz. However, it’s still best practice to use trivets or hot pads to be safe. Granite can crack under extreme heat exposure.
Does quartz have a resale value like granite does?
Quartz and granite can both add value and appeal to a home. However, granite has traditionally done better maintaining resale value. As quartz gains popularity, it is beginning to improve as an investment as well.
Is quartz cheaper than granite?
In the past, quartz was more expensive, but costs have come down in recent years. There are affordable options for both materials now. Higher-end designer quartz may still cost more than some granites. Overall pricing is now competitive.
Which material requires less maintenance?
Quartz undoubtedly requires less maintenance than granite. Other than routine cleaning, quartz needs no ongoing care. Granite requires yearly sealing and careful cleaning with stone-safe products. For busy homeowners, quartz’ low maintenance is a distinct advantage.
Is quartz stain proof?
No material is 100% stain proof. But quartz is highly stain resistant and any spills are less likely to absorb or etch the surface. Minor stains can usually be removed with cleaning. Heavily pigmented liquids could potentially stain if left for prolonged periods though.
In summary, both quartz and granite make excellent countertop materials with unique benefits. Quartz performs better for durability and low maintenance. But the natural elegance of granite offers its own charm. Carefully weigh your options based on your priorities to pick the right countertop for your home. Consult a kitchen designer if undecided between these two top contenders.