Countertops are a main component of any well-functioning kitchen, so it is important for homeowners to know the differences between countertop options to make the right choice for their home. Two options that have risen in popularity in recent years are quartz countertops and granite countertops. While both quartz and granite countertops are exceptional additions to any home, there are some factors that homeowners should consider when deciding between the two.
So how should homeowners choose between quartz and granite for their countertop needs?
Quartz and granite are not made from the same material which means that each has their own unique appearance, durability, maintenance requirements, and price. We will discuss each of these factors in more detail below to help you make the best countertop choice for your home.
Material Composition
Quartz is not a 100% naturally occurring stone; it is instead a manufactured material composed of 95% stone combined with 5% polymer resins. This combination causes quartz to be extremely hard and durable, which we will discuss later on in this article.
Granite, on the other hand, is composed of 100% natural stone and is mined from a quarry and transported from far distances. Due to the differences in energy requirements from producing quartz to mining and transporting granite, using quartz countertops is often the more environmentally friendly option of the two.
Appearance
Both quartz and granite are statement pieces of the home, offering an aura of elegance and uniqueness, but each has their own benefits. The benefit of granite is that there are countless colors and patterns to choose from. As it is a naturally occurring stone, no two pieces are the same so homeowners know that the stone in their home is unique to them.
The benefit to quartz, though, is that it is customizable. Homeowners have the ability to customize quartz to fit the appearance of their home, making it easier to find the right material quickly while it might take time to locate the perfect piece of granite.
Durability
Both quartz and granite are extremely hard materials, but as quartz is a partially manufactured material, it is even harder than granite. While both materials are resistant to damage such as dings, chips, and scratches, quartz is even more resistant. Also, granite is extremely porous, so liquid spills can lead to staining. Unlike granite, quartz is not porous, so staining is less of a concern.
Maintenance Requirements
As granite is a porous material, it requires to be resealed on a regular basis. Sealing is the act of putting a protective film overtop the stone so that spilled liquids will bead on the surface for easy cleaning instead of absorbing into pores causing staining and bacterial formation.
Over time, this sealant does wear down due to repeated use, so it is important to reseal granite to ensure the longevity of the material. Depending on the porosity level of the stone and how often the countertop is used will depend on how often it should be resealed. Typically resealing should occur every year or every couple of years. You can contact your countertop supplier for more accurate information on how often resealing should occur.
As quartz does not contain pores, there is no need to seal it. While maintenance on quartz is much simpler than granite, it is still important to regularly clean the surface so bacteria does not have the opportunity to form. Using a regular soap and sponge or household cleaning agent would suffice.
Price
One final consideration when choosing between quartz and granite countertops is the price. Quartz is typically more expensive than granite due to its manufactured nature and the hardness and weight of the product. Depending on your location and supplier, the price for purchase and installation of quartz can run a few thousand dollars more than granite, both being at top grade.
Conclusion
Both quartz and granite countertops have their advantages and disadvantages. It is up to you as a homeowner to decide which will function best for your home needs. Whichever you choose, either option will become a beautiful focal point that will light up the room.
Deciding on Granite or Quartz
The countertop professionals at Wisconsin Granite Design in Oak Creek can help with your countertop selection. For more than a decade, we have been designing, fabricating, and installing the most beautiful stone countertops such as granite throughout Wisconsin homes. We house hundreds of granite, marble and quartz slabs with upfront pricing, so you know exactly what you are getting because you are picking it yourself.
We are a #1 choice in Wisconsin for countertop solutions as well as remodeling services so visit our countertop store in the Milwaukee area and speak to a design professional today, Free!