Granite Vs. Quartz Countertops

Which Is Better: Granite or Quartz?

Unfortunately, the answer to this question is not straightforward. The important thing to remember is this: either way, you're getting an extremely high-quality countertop. If you find yourself tearing your hair out trying to make up your mind, take a step back and remember - both granite and quartz are top-of-the-line kitchen and bathroom countertops.

However, before you make the investment in a custom granite or quartz kitchen countertop, you need to make an informed decision. Read on for some of the important factors in deciding between quartz and granite countertops.

Granite and Quartz Countertop Comparison

Price

The cost of granite countertops is more variable than quartz. Quartz will cost about $60-$100 per square foot, and granite will run you about $40-$150 per square foot. So, you can potentially pay less for a custom granite countertop, but you can also pay much more depending on the color style and pattern.

Because granite is a natural stone and quartz is engineered, prices for granite fluctuate more based on quantity and availability. Granite mined locally will cost less than granite mined halfway across the globe.

Resistance to Heat, Scratches, Stains and Chemicals

Both Granite and Quartz are very strong materials and highly resistant to physical damage from solids and liquids. When it comes to level of resistance, picking between granite and quartz can feel like a toss-up. Either stone is strong against blunt force, but can be vulnerable to chipping if a straight edge is used and there's enough of an impact.

Granite can be more vulnerable to scratches and stains if it isn't sealed properly. Make sure your granite countertop is re-sealed annually to ensure it maintains its toughness.

Appearance, Look and Feel

Perhaps the biggest difference between granite and quartz is the appearance. Granite is a natural stone with unpredictable patterns and imperfections. Some people are turned off by granite’s occasional blotchiness, but others love the “natural” feeling. When you purchase a granite countertop, you need to see a large sample before committing, because every slab of granite is different.

Quartz is an engineered stone with relatively consistent patterns. A small sample of quartz is enough to get an idea of how it will look in your kitchen or bathroom.

One important difference: seams in granite countertops tend to be more visible than those in quartz because of the fundamental difference in pattern consistency.

If you want the “wow” factor in your kitchen countertops, lean toward granite. For a sleeker, more low-profile look, lean toward quartz.

Frequency of Care

Quartz requires less frequency of care, as it is non-porous and doesn’t need to be sealed. Granite needs to be regularly checked (based on amount of use) to make sure stains aren’t getting through the sealant and into the stone itself. While both granite and quartz counters require little care, granite does require a bit more attention.

Kenosha Home Remodelers Install Granite and Quartz Countertops

When you have made a decision, or simply seek another opinion for your kitchen or bathroom, the countertop installers at All Stone Tops in Kenosha, WI help you select the countertop materials perfect for your design. Visit our showroom to get a firsthand look at our wide selection of countertops today.