Need New Countertops? Here's How Granite And Quartz Compare

Posted on: 30 March 2015

If you're planning to update your kitchen with high-end countertops, you'll probably want to choose between granite and quartz. Either choice would be good and either would give your kitchen a true gourmet feel. Each material has its own advantages, so here are some comparison points to help you decide which one is best for you.

Maintenance

Quartz countertops are practically maintenance free. Of course, you'll have to wipe up spills and crumbs, but since the stone isn't porous, you don't have to worry about it soaking up water or wine and forming stains. Granite, on the other hand, is porous. That means even water will cause an ugly stain if you don't seal your countertop.

Fortunately, sealing your counter is not a big deal. It's as easy as applying car wax and you only have to do it about once a year or so. But if you want to eliminate the risk of stains, then quartz is the best choice.

Durability

Since both materials are made of stone, they are very hard and durable. Quartz is a little harder and less prone to cracking, although neither stone is indestructible. Each type should stand up well to normal kitchen wear and tear, however if you drop a hammer or some other hard object on your counter, it's possible either one would crack. When it comes to durability, these two materials are a very close match.

Appearance

Granite shows seams more so than quartz. If visible seams bother you, then quartz is the better choice. Granite shows seams more readily because it is mined directly from the quarry in a single big chunk. Each piece has it's own unique color and grain.

Therefore, it is impossible to exactly match another piece that continues the flow of grain, and the seam will stand out. Quartz is made from crushed stone mixed with colored pigments and resin.

If the pieces need to be seamed together, the seam is much less visible since the color and pattern is identical on both sides of the seam. If you choose dark quartz, seams will be practically invisible.

Variety

Granite comes in a few different shades, but there isn't nearly as much variety as you get with quartz since color pigments are added when it's manufactured. If you want a unique decorating scheme, you may want to choose quartz, so you have a variety of colors and patterns to choose from. You can choose from a solid color, or a pattern that resembles granite or marble.

In the end, your choice between quartz and granite may come down to your personal preference based on appearance. You may prefer the more classic look of a granite slab over a modern quartz color. They are both attractive choices for an upscale kitchen, so it's hard to go wrong no matter what you choose.

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