When it comes to your home improvement, many often debate the pros and cons of granite countertops vs quartz countertops.
Is one actually better, or is it a matter of preference?
We’ll dive into what granite and quartz actually is and which serves as a better countertop material for you.
What is Granite? What is Quartz?
Granite slabs are completely natural stones found in rock quarries and used for kitchen countertops, flooring, and more. This type of stone is cut, polished, and used entirely as-is. Its colors and patterns are dictated by the way it’s formed naturally in the wild. There’s still a lot of variety, and each granite slab is going to be different than the next.
Quartz is mostly natural but is ultimately an engineered stone as the end product is generally manufactured with polymer resins. The pigment from the added materials allows manufacturers to customize and change quartz pieces as they choose.
Does the difference in these two materials have a significant effect on your countertop? Let’s find out.
Which Type of Countertop is More Durable?
Both granite and quartz make incredibly strong stone countertops, but quartz is actually even harder than granite stone. Many homeowners prefer quartz as it isn’t sensitive to water and moisture like granite is. It’s also highly resistant to chipping, requires little to no maintenance, and will last you virtually forever.
Granite is tremendously strong as well but is very porous making it susceptible liquids that may pop up during regular kitchen use. It’s also possible to chip or crack granite with strong forces. Unlike quartz though, granite is very heat-resistant, so there’s no need to worry about exposure to extreme temperatures. As long as you apply liquid sealant and avoid strong impacts, granite can be just as long-lasting as quartz.
What’s Easier to Maintain?
Quartz is easier to maintain as it only requires soap and water to clean when necessary. You don’t need to worry about constantly resealing a quartz countertop, either.
Granite must be cleaned daily to avoid developing stains from natural oils. You’ll need to immediately clean up any spills as well. Finally, granite countertops should be resealed at least once a year. Otherwise, moisture can lead to further staining, cracking, and other permanent damage.
Which Looks Better - Quartz or Granite?
There’s no objective data when it comes to visual preference. However, there are some facts to think about when it comes to your countertop’s appearance.
Granite definitely offers an authentic, natural beauty that comes with pure stone. Each stone’s colors and patterns are determined when the rock is formed, so each piece that ends up in your home is completely unique. Many quartz manufacturers try to emulate the natural look of granite, but there’s never anything quite like it.
Quartz, however, offers homeowners a high level of durability as well as the option to customize. Those who aren’t bound to the look of granite can effectively change their quartz countertops with a huge variety of colors and textures to choose from.
Quartz and Granite Countertops - CIT Granite
Center International Quartz & Granite is here to assist Michigan residents with getting the home upgrades they desire. Whether it’s for your floor, walls, or countertops, we have a granite or quartz solution that’s right for your tastes.
If you’re interested about pricing options for your project, be sure to get your free estimate from us today!
For all other questions or concerns, give us a call today at 734-941-2323.