When you’re thinking of renovating your kitchen, there are plenty of options available for what material you should use for your countertops. Two of the most popular, and most durable, are granite and quartz. If you’re trying to decide between the two, let’s take a look at a few of the differences and the pros and cons of each.
ORIGIN
Granite is a 100% natural stone. It’s mined from quarries, cut into manageable slabs, and polished to a nice finish. Quartz, on the other hand, is manufactured by using ground natural quartz and other natural stones and fusing them together with polymer resins.
LOOK
Because granite comes directly from the Earth, created through great heat and pressure, no two slabs are alike. It comes in a variety of different colors and patterns, and there is an almost limitless selection from which to choose. Sometimes it can be an exhausting search for homeowners trying to find their perfect slab.
However, quartz is a bit of a different story. Because it is manufactured, it has the look of stone, but it can also be customized with color variations and patterns. This can make the selection process much easier.
DURABILITY
Both granite and quartz are extremely durable. They are arguably the most durable materials on the market for making countertops. However, that doesn’t mean that they’re indestructible. Everything has its limits.
Granite was formed in heat under the earth so it’s pretty impervious in that regard. You can put a hot pot or pan on it and never have a problem. But quartz is not quite as resistant. Because quartz is made of a polymer resin, it can melt, burn, and discolor under excessive heat. So if you’re a chef and put hot pots and pans on the countertop, be sure to use a pad or trivet.
While granite can endure heat, it is more susceptible to liquids, especially dark liquids. If wine, coffee, prune juice, or other liquids are spilled on granite and not cleaned up, it can stain. Quartz is not porous like granite, so it is much more stain resistant, but that doesn’t mean it’s stain proof.
Yet quartz is a bit more prone to scratches. Granite will dull your knives before it will accept a scratch. Quartz is still very unlikely to scratch, but ultimately, it is largely made of resin so it’s a good idea to use a cutting board.
Granite is also more tolerant of sunlight. It can be in direct sunlight for extended periods of time and never fade in color. Quartz’s color, on the other hand, will fade in direct sunlight so consider what natural light your kitchen windows allow.
COST
As far as countertops go, granite and quartz are both premium materials and their cost is a reflection of that. While there are a number of materials that are cheaper, none of them offer the durability and aesthetic that quartz and granite do. So if your budget allows for a premium product, know that the prices are negligible between the two.
The great thing about deciding between quartz and granite is that there is likely to be no wrong choice. Either material will serve you well and add value to your home in incredible ways. Ultimately, it comes down to what will work best for you. Stop by our showroom and find that perfect slab of granite or quartz today!
