Quartz vs. Granite Countertops, A Kitchen Remodel Comparison
Quartz Countertops
Granite Countertops
Compare the benefits and drawbacks of Quartz vs. Granite for your kitchen countertops
Granite has been the most popular choice among homeowners for kitchen countertops for many years. It offers luxury, durability and a beautiful look that can become the focal point for any kitchen. Granite is a natural stone product that is mined from the ground in large blocks, cleaned, processes, sliced into slabs and polished. These slabs are the product you see in stone yards, and they are further processed and cut into beautiful natural stone countertops.
Quartz is a newer material that has been gaining in popularity for bot kitchen and bath remodeling. Quartz is considered an engineered stone. While it possesses many of the best characteristics of natural stone, it is an engineered, man-made product. Quartz is predominantly composed of anywhere from 92 to 94 percent natural quartz chips and dust which is combined with resin and formed into countertops.
Natural Granite and quartz look and perform similarly, but they are completely different in their composition. When it comes to quartz vs. granite, is there a clear cut winner? Both have many benefits and advocates, but the key really, depending on understanding them more fully to determine which surface is right for you.
Let's look at the pros and cons of both materials to help educate you about their benefits and differences. As we compare quartz vs. granite, you'll get a better feel for which is perfect for you!
The Pros and Cons of Engineered Quartz
Quartz and granite both have pros and cons. The price point for both of these surfaces is very similar, so ultimately your choice will come down to your specific lifestyle needs, functionality, and your aesthetic preferences.
Quartz: The Pros
Quartz countertops are as strong and durable as granite, but because they are not solid stone they are more flexible. This makes them easier to install.
Because Quartz is an engineered product, it is non-porous and requires virtually no maintenance!
Quartz is extremely, durable, but it's not indestructible. Because it is non-porous, it is totally stain resistant, so a spilled glass of wine or juice just requires a quick cleanup.
Quartz: The Cons
Over time, when exposed to direct sunlight, quartz can sometimes experience discoloration. If one section of your counter is exposed to UV rays and another section isn't, there may be a slight discoloration or color variation over time.
Quartz is heavier than granite and as a result, requires professional installation by knowledgeable craftsmen who understand load distribution and support.
Seams are visible on a quartz color, but this can be minimized by using a darker color. Quartz can hide seams because it is a manufactured product and the color is uniform and consistent throughout the countertop. Because granite has natural veins and color variations it's not possible to hide the seams. If this is an important factor for you, then quartz is the best choice.
The Pros and Cons of Granite
If your sense of style tends towards natural stone, granite is an excellent choice. Because it is a natural product, each slab is unique. Regarding price, it's similar to quartz though more common styles of granite such as Uba Tuba or Venetian Gold may be less expensive.
Granite: The Pros
Because it comes out of the ground, each granite slab is completely unique. This can be a big advantage for some homeowners, and a major drawback for others. One of its big selling points is that because it is a natural material every slab is unique.
There are a large number of granite species available and each one offers different veining, patterns, and color palettes depending on the minerals present when the stone was formed.
Granite is one of the most durable countertop materials available. Because it is a natural stone product it can be chipped or cracked if abused. With regular maintenance, granite countertops are perfect for day-to-day use and, when properly maintained, can last a lifetime.
Granite: The Cons
Because granite is a natural stone it is porous, and countertops will need to be sealed before use. They will also need to be sealed annually to keep them looking great. Unlike quartz which is completely non-porous, if improperly sealed, or neglected, granite can stain. While some professionals recommend sealing every three years, it's best to do it every year.
Granite is heavy and inflexible. As a result, it requires professional installation.
Because granite is varied in color and design, seams can not be hidden. You will see seams once your countertops are installed. If this is a major issue for you, granite is probably not the right choice.
When purchasing granite, visit stone yards and choose from complete slabs. Samples can only give you a very basic idea of what you're buying. Because it is a natural material, choosing your granite based on samples may not give you an accurate reflection of your finished countertops.
Quartz vs. Granite - The Takeaway
Quartz and granite both have plenty of homeowners who are advocates for each material. When shopping, make sure to do your research. Read reviews, visit stone yards and speak with the designers at Forward Design Build Remodel. Think about your needs and lifestyle before you make your final choice.
The bottom line is that whether you choose quartz or granite for your kitchen, you'll end up with a beautiful, luxurious, durable and functional countertop you'll love for years!
Forward Design Build is a residential design-build firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan that is known for its commitment to craftsmanship and communication. We are committed to improving our neighbors quality of life with inspired design and creative remodeling. Our homes are highly functional, exquisitely beautiful, and remarkably comfortable. Contact us to speak with an expert about your new home or remodeling project.