When updating countertops, there are many lovely and functional materials to consider. Among the two most popular options for Twin Cities homeowners are quartz and granite. Both are attractive and functional, so how should you choose between them?
Here are some helpful features of both quartz and granite countertops, so you can determine which material best suits your lifestyle, design preferences, and budget.
Appearance and Style
Both quartz and granite offer gorgeous designs and colors that can bring out the best in kitchen and bath layouts. To choose the right one, it may be useful to consider whether you prefer natural or manmade stone.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that is mined from quarries, then prepared for installation by being cut into slabs and polished before it is installed. The stone’s natural hues and mineral patterns are fully retained, and you can choose from a range of color families—beige, black, blue, brown, burgundy, gray, green, red, yellow, and white.
Because each granite slab is unique and not like another, especially ones that have striking veins, you can enjoy an exclusive, custom countertop. If you particularly like veining, granite is preferable, because quartz (though lovely) cannot replicate granite’s unique veining.
Quartz
If you prefer a wide variety of colors, styles and patterns, quartz offers more options than granite. While quartz begins as naturally occurring stone, it is engineered before being installed. The quartz is first crushed, then combined with pigments and resins that bind the stone into lovely hues and designs that offer undeniable charm.
Quartz countertops can mimic many looks—from industrial manmade materials to natural stone –and it offers a more uniform appearance than granite.
Durability
The lifespan of your countertops—including how well they hold up against the stresses of everyday use—is an essential factor in determining the right material for your household.
Granite
Granite is widely considered to be the most durable of natural stone counters. It is sturdy, tough, and resists chipping and cracking—meaning it fares well even with heavy use.
Its ability to resist high temperatures is so strong that you can place hot pots and pans directly on granite without worrying about scorching. However, it is a good idea to avoid subjecting it to extreme temperature shifts. If granite is exposed to the high heat of a steaming pot, then immediately exposed to any icy plate, the dramatic shift could cause the stone to be damaged.
Quartz
Because quartz is treated with resins to hold it together, this material is a bit harder than granite. It performs well under regular wear and tear, is non-absorbent, and does not easily scratch and stain. Its uniform makeup helps to protect it. However, you should take care to safeguard it from heat, as it can scorch if heated pots or hot hair styling appliances are placed directly on it.
Ease of Upkeep
Both quartz and granite are easily cleaned with a mixture of mild soap and water. Beyond that, their care is a bit different.
Granite
As a natural stone, granite can be affected by manmade chemicals, so it is best to avoid treating it with abrasive cleaning solutions and tools. Instead, use a cleanser specially designed for natural stone, and a soft sponge. Since granite is porous, spills should be quickly wiped up. If it stains, use a granite stain remover to pull up the mark without scrubbing.
Granite must be regularly resealed. An epoxy or resin can be used to fill in minor scratches, but if large cracks occur, a professional installer should make repairs.
Quartz
Quartz can be treated with gentle countertop cleansers. Its nonporous surface is great at resisting stains—though if you do notice staining, you can usually wipe it away with glass cleaner and a soft sponge. Avoid using abrasive cleansers.
Quartz counters also resist mold, mildew, and bacteria, and they do not need resealing. However if quartz becomes damaged, it requires professional care.
Environmental Impact
Since granite and quartz both begin as naturally occurring materials, sustainability is a somewhat complex consideration.
Granite
New granite slabs are quarried, which means that any fuel and labor required during quarrying affects its overall carbon footprint. While some have wondered about granite’s ability to emit radon, the Environmental Protection Agency has determined that any such emissions are minimal.
Quartz
Engineered from crushed leftovers, quartz countertops do not require the same amount of quarrying work as granite. That difference may be offset by the process of manufacturing the crushed stone into slabs with manmade pigments and resins.
Affordability
As premium natural stone and engineered stone options, granite and quartz are both heavy and difficult to handle. Both must be carefully installed by experienced countertop professionals—which can make the labor costs higher than for other countertop materials.
In terms of sourcing, granite and quartz are similar in pricing, though granite may cost slightly more due to limited availability. Hard-to-find colors and patterns will likely be more expensive. If you desire to lower the cost of your project, ask your installation team about using slab remnants for small counter spaces.
Beautiful Countertops Await You with Beissel Renovation
Ultimately, the choice of quartz or granite—or any other type of countertop—comes down to deciding what material delivers the right blend of style, upkeep, and affordability for your personal goals. There are many options to offer the colors, looks, and durability you desire.
Fortunately, you do not have to explore your options on your own.. Our friendly design team at Beissel Renovation can help you navigate your options and provide guidance as you compare countertop selections. Start envisioning what is possible for your home by perusing our countertop installations. We’re here to serve you!