The granite vs quartz countertops debate is probably the hottest thing in the kitchen. It is difficult to say one of them is a better choice than the other at one glance, as both have their enthusiasts. Both countertops are made of natural materials, are beautiful, and will last a lifetime. Let’s take a closer look at granite and quartz to help pick you a winner.
In this blog, we will compare both natural stones based on certain parameters. We have eight parameters to help show the key differences between the two so, by the end of this blog you can decide what’s the best option for your residential or commercial project. But before we get into comparing quartz vs granite countertops, let’s briefly scroll through the basics.
What is Granite?
Granite is a 100% natural stone (igneous rock). It is mined in quarries and cut and polished into manageable slabs for countertops in factories. It is strong, durable, long-lasting, unique, and resistant to harsh elements like heat. It is a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops among people who love a natural and earthy appearance in interior designs.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone. It is a composition of ground natural quartz (95-97 per cent) and polymer resins (3-5 per cent). Quartz is as strong, beautiful, durable, and resistant to heat and stains as granite. When it comes to kitchen or bathroom countertops, quartz is an underdog, but it’s slowly changing. It is emerging as a solid choice for all kinds of spaces.
Now that we are over the basics, let’s see how granite vs quartz countertops compare against each other.
Appearance
Granite: A Granite stone naturally forms under the earth’s surface, giving it a unique color and pattern. Each slab is special. If you are looking for countertops that add subtle yet standout features to your kitchen, bathroom, or vanity, go for granite countertops. There’s an endless and exquisite collection to choose from as no two granite slabs are the same.
Quartz: Quartz countertops give an excellent look. Its popularity has grown because it offers the look of natural stone while allowing more room for customization. When the demand for countertops is large, quartz makes the selection process much easier. Granite may offer a remarkable look, but searching for the right piece that matches your color scheme is challenging.
Durability
Granite: It is a highly durable natural stone and is resistant to many extreme elements like heat, fire, scratching, chipping, etc., in the kitchen. However, it is porous, and it is susceptible to stains if a liquid is left on the surface for extended periods. Experts can easily remove those stains using professional methods.
Quartz: Since it is an engineered stone, it is more durable and long-lasting than granite. It is resistant to chipping, scratching, and even staining because it’s a non-porous material. However, it can get damaged due to extreme heat so, ensure you are using heating pads to always place your hot pans.
Maintenance
Granite: It is a low-maintenance investment; however, it is important to wipe down the granite surface with a mild surface cleaner every day to eliminate any chances of staining. Also, remember to reseal your countertops at least once a year for them to last forever. Failing to take proper care might add replacement costs to your expense list.
Quartz: They do not require a reseal annually but still need cleaning every day. Use a mild surface cleaner or water and soap to wipe off the surface, and the quartz countertops should be fine. They are also anti-bacterial, so you do not have to worry about germs breeding on your kitchen surface.
Cost-effectiveness
Granite: When it comes to quartz vs granite price, it depends where you are sourcing it from. If you purchase from a wholesaler like Stone Depot, USA, you can save a considerable amount of money. Some people might still find granite expensive but in the long run, they are totally worth it. Also, granite prices go with the market price, unlike quartz.
Quartz: Quartz prices fluctuate a lot depending on the quality and customization. Since it is a man-made and heavy stone, manufacturers determine the price as per their preference. A premium quality quartz with styling, customization and installation will cost a lot more than a granite countertop.
Eco-friendliness
Granite: It is a natural stone mined straight from the earth. It is cut, polished, and installed in your kitchen with no added chemicals. However, it must be sourced from where it is mined which uses a lot of energy like fuel for transportation. One can visit wholesalers in their area and find pieces that fit their requirements.
Quartz: It can be regionally sourced but the making procedure of quartz countertops involves adding synthetic resins. These chemical resins are harmful to the environment. Try to source your countertops or worktops from a local shop like Stone Depot, Texas, as it cuts down on transportation distance significantly.
Material Composition
Granite: Granite is a completely natural slab that is dug up, cut, and installed in kitchens, bathrooms, and vanities. It is an igneous rock formed due to the slow crystallization of magma. So, it costs much less compared to quartz countertops.
Quartz: It is a man-made product that includes natural stone, chemical resins and colorants. The synthetic resin is what holds everything together and makes it non-porous.
Installation & Customization
Granite: It is a hefty stone that requires professional handling and installation. Shape and size customizations can only be made using professional-grade machines and skilled labor. Making custom cuts in granite slabs is easier than quartz because the prior is softer than the latter.
Quartz: It is also a large and heavy slab that requires expert handling. The manufacturing of the quartz, precise cutting, shaping, and finishing can all be done by industrial types of machinery and suitable labor only.
Resale Value
Granite: According to current estimations, the resale value of granite countertops is around 25% of their retail value. That is the price of the countertops alone, excluding the installation fees. Although it might not seem like much, that still represents a good resale value percentage. So, if it’s a construction project that can be up for resale a few years down the line, go for granite countertops.
Quartz: When it comes to resale value, quartz is not doing so great. But these feelings are evolving. The advantage of a low-maintenance material combined with the constantly improving quality and styles offered is capping the already narrow resale value gap. By the time you consider reselling the property, that gap will be much smaller.
How can Stone Depot Help You with Granite vs Quartz Countertops?
Stone Depot, Texas and New Jersery, has been a quality natural stone countertops wholesaler since 1984. We offer an outstanding range of granite and quartz slabs for countertops for projects of all sizes. We have four options in granite including Absolute Black Granite, Black Galaxy, Steel Grey , Blue Dunes and Colonial White and more.
In quartz, we have options including Sparkling White Quartz, Dazzle Grey River, Venetian White, Carrara Hilos, Calacatta Divine, Bianco Quartz, Statuario Quartz, Carrara Quartz, and Calacatta Quartz Countertops, Bottichino Classic Quartz, Calacatta Laza Quartz and more. If you need help choosing which stone’s best for you, contact our experts.
Final Thought
Looking at quartz countertops vs granite, granite is unquestionably the winner for those who want only the best countertops, want to use only a completely natural product, are willing to pay the price, and don’t mind a little bit of upkeep. Quartz is the best alternative for everyone else with a budget that can support pricey countertops. But no matter what your choice, Stone Depot offers the best of both worlds!
George is an accomplished content writer at Stone Depot, specializing in creating captivating and informative content related to the world of natural stone. With a passion for writing and a deep appreciation for the beauty and versatility of stone, he strives to provide readers with valuable insights and inspiration.
