Granite and quartz countertops are more expensive than other types of countertops, including solid surface countertops, tile countertops, laminate countertops, and butcher block countertops; however, the numerous advantages that they offer far outweigh the difference in cost. By some reports, quartz is also less susceptible to harboring bacteria, again thanks to the resins that make the surface less porous. I am still in the trade every single day installing countertops, educating people on the type of material they are using for their homes and making people's dream kitchens a reality. For a time, beginning around 2008, there was some media-induced fear regarding radon emissions from granite countertops, but recent studies report that there is little or no radon coming from either granite or engineered stone countertops. Jonathan has been in the industry for many years fabricating, installing and repairing countertops. Avoid damaging your quartz countertops by always using a cutting board. If, on the other hand, you prefer a more uniform look, it may be best for you to choose quartz. In the words of the EPA: "It is extremely unlikely that radiation from granite countertops would increase annual radiation doses above normal, natural background levels.". Thu, Sep, 2018 Jesus Alberto Mouzo Worktops now form a very important part of interior designing in many modern homes. Furthermore, the risk of damaging your new granite or quartz countertop is too risky to do it yourself. Pricing for both types of countertop varies because both are sourced overseas. The ‘magic’ of quartz comes from the resin that is used to make it. Cost Of Quartz vs Granite. Granite Countertops. Quartz vs. granite comes down to two things: stain resistance and looks. Quartz is manufactured using resins and ground quartz. This guide will discuss the differences between quartz and granite countertops and the best qualities of each type of stone, so you can determine which is the best choice for you. Granite vs Quartz – Compared Everything! The use of trivets will aide in protecting your quartz countertops. Granite is a natural stone found in kitchens around the world. Both granite and quartz countertops look amazing, but do you wonder if one surface is more durable than the other? The amount released does not pose any threat to humans or animals. Granite is the toughest substance, but … We thought it best to have a page on this topic, the pro’s and cons with a full depth exploration of the subject. This natural stone offers gorgeous coloration, durability, and warmth in your kitchen. However, the quartz powder must be quarried and then crushed. Granite and quartz countertops are durable and will last a long time; however, if an item is dropped or the corner is hit with force, a chip or crack can occur. Quartz will stain with colorful liquid if it is left on for extremely long periods of time. Choosing between quartz and granite is a personal choice. Solid surface is the term for a type of heavy polymer-laden countertop material. What is better, Granite Vs Quartz ? In your eagerness to choose a countertop for your kitchen or bath, you have narrowed it down to two materials: quartz (engineered stone) vs. granite (natural stone). Here’s What to Do, Cambria Quartz Colors (Find Your Cambria Color). In the area of kitchen countertops, there are many materials from which to choose. Granite vs. Quartz: A Final Word In pretty much every area of consideration—appearance, durability, hygiene, variety, cost, and maintenance—quartz is better than granite. Thickness: For both materials, counters range from about ¾” (2cm) to about 1 ¼” (3cm). If you are on a budget, these are not the countertop materials for you. All photos used are copyright their respective owners. Quartzite vs Granite Durability Due to the metamorphic process, the intense pressure and heat that it undergoes makes quartzite a very strong material, even harder than granite. Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 12 years. If you are looking for character in your worktops, then granite is probably for you. This beautiful man-made counter offers numerous advantages as well as disadvantages. If a chip or crack occurs, it is best to leave the repairs to a professional to ensure a flawless finish. Caring for your granite or quartz countertops is a breeze. No question about it: Both granite and quartz are premium, high-dollar countertop materials. Many shoppers assume that quartz is the most environmentally friendly countertop because it can be manufactured near where it is sold. Unfortunately, when it comes to granite vs. quartz, the debate over which countertop is better can become quite heated. If you like the material you use then it is likely that someone else will too. Be careful with cooking pans though: Quartz can be damaged by excessive heat, so use heating pads at all times. Let’s look at the advantages and drawbacks that granite counters offer today’s homeowner. Professional Advice: We suggest leaving it to the professionals. Quartz, on the other hand, will fade quickly when exposed to direct sunlight, especially if the quartz is a darker color. It’s made of up to 50% crushed quartz (by volume), 25% silica and other stone, while another 25% is the resin used to bind it all together. When it comes to quartz vs granite durability, quartz does everything granite does only just a little better. If you prefer the appearance of natural stone, it may be wise to choose granite. Granite comes in almost every color combination imaginable. Both have endless color options. Quartz, on the other hand, does not require sealing, thanks to the resins used in the fabrication of the slabs; and the material is uniform throughout, which means it rarely cracks. Granite is a relatively porous stone that requires sealing upon installation, then periodic sealing on an ongoing basis. Whether you’re remodeling or building a house, one of the primary considerations is the cost of the materials and installation. Whether you’re getting a new home built or remodeling your current home and you are having difficulty deciding between the two, we are here to help. Introducing "One Thing": A New Video Series, The Spruce Gardening & Plant Care Review Board, The Spruce Renovations and Repair Review Board. Granite is cheaper than quartz. Granite is not an eco-friendly surface choice. Price will not be the only factor that determines whether you complete your home remodeling project using granite or quartz. A dish could fall out of a cabinet, or you could drop a hot pot, or whack the corner or edge of a counter, resulting in a chip. It is important to remember that granite can stain, and the use of trivets are recommended due to that fact. Granite is an extremely hard natural stone. And the production process for natural granite produces fewer carbon emissions than quartz. Granite and quartz countertops provide homeowners with years of enjoyment, performance, and beauty; however, each type of countertop has its weaknesses, appearances, and costs that should be considered when purchasing either granite or quartz countertops for your home. Granite Vs. Quartz. Hi, my name is Jonathan Smith. Conversely, quartz is more challenging to repair. Copyright © 2019 CountertopAdvisor.com All Rights Reserved! Anatolia Granite and Marble in Knoxville, TN performed a Stain and Burn Test in this video. Leave a comment below. When you are planning your quartz countertop project it is a great idea to ask your countertop provider to make a small 10 x 18 cutting board made from the same material as your quartz countertops. We have gathered all the information that you need to make an informed decision from cost comparison to routine maintenance. There is a huge choice of granite available in the market place today. Both granite and quartz can be fabricated with the edge you want. A 36-inch countertop is approximately 100 pounds. After all, quartz and granite are each loudly touted by their respective manufacturers as being purely natural, straight from the earth, hard as stone. Pans collect grease which will dull the finish of your granite countertops. As quartz has become more popular and more widely available, costs of basic countertops have fallen, with unique designer styles and colors commanding upper-end pricing. Granite is a hard igneous rock made of volcanic material. On the other hand, granite countertops require quarrying out of the earth, while quartz countertops are effectively made from left-over stone byproducts, with no quarrying required. Granite tile costs are 40% to 70% less than slabs. Stone and engineered stone countertops are all the rage these days. 10 Startling Facts About Granite vs Quartz You Need To Know Now. No two sections of granite are the same, just like quartz. Because quartz and granite are minerals with natural variations, exact density varies from sample to sample, though overall quartz averages about 2.65 g/cc and granite comes in a little heavier at 2.7 to 2.8 g/cc. The choice here is a matter of personal preference. Certain low-quality brands have discolored underneath an electric skillet or crockpot. But many people find that quartz countertops offer looks that are different and better than natural stone. Getting the kitchen of your dreams means including large windows to allow sunlight to stream into your living spaces. Tariffs and other factors can also affect pricing. If you are spending the money on either costly material, it does not make sense to take risks on DIY installation. But don’t be confused because these … The colored liquid will soak into the pours of the granite or other natural stone and almost attach permanently. Additionally, many manufacturing facilities boast that recycled materials and water conservation makes quartz an environmentally friendly countertop option. Granite Countertop Comparison Guide, Solid Surface Countertops vs. Quartz Countertops, Granite Bathroom Counters For the Bathroom, Quartz Countertops: All the Basics of This Stone Substitute, Corian vs. Silestone: What to Know Before You Buy. While quartz vs granite is more stain-resistant, it’s not entirely safe against long-term exposure. Granite typically has natural variations in the stone with colors ranging from greens, reds, whites, blacks, browns, and blues. Quartz is the marketing term for what is more widely known as engineered stone, itself a term for a slurry of natural minerals combined with resins to create a hard, rock-like surface for countertops. If you aren’t someone who wants the maintenance of granite countertops, which requires sealing them two times per year then you should probably go with a quartz material for your countertops. The cost of granite ranges from $30 to $200 per square foot, including installation. Luckily, you can minimize the risk of stains by sealing your granite countertops one or two times per year. A great deal of energy is required to mine, cut, deliver, and install dense, heavy granite surfaces. You have to decide which is best for your home or project based off actual facts of each material. However, the sealant used on the granite can become damaged from hot pots; therefore, it is best to use a trivet for your hot pots and pans. Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, but both are equally beautiful and stylish. If spills occur, wipe them up immediately to avoid staining or damaging your countertops. Thank you for being that audience! Quartz Vs Quartzite Vs Granite. Countertops of comparable size of granite and quartz will weigh about the … There’s no doubt that with either product you’re going to have to dig deep into your pockets. If you select darker quartz for your countertops it’s a good possibility that the seams won’t show at all which gives you a great contemporary, clean look. You can cut directly on granite without worrying about scoring or scratching the surface. All of these products are container-shipped across oceans, and this is dependent on petroleum prices. A common question, frequently asked by our customers. 8 Surprising Things About Quartz (Engineered Stone) Countertops, Pros and Cons of Popular Bathroom Countertop Materials, Corian Solid Surface vs. The kitchen of your dreams is something that can easily be achieved. Considerations Like granite, quartz also has some downsides to factor in. Furthermore, manufacturing techniques involved in producing quartz ensures the coloration in the countertop is more consistent. Although there are repair kits available for quartz chips, the repairs are more complicated. It is formed when magma slowly crystallizes just below the Earth’s surface. Visit any home improvement store and find a granite repair kit to fix it yourself. Quartz is more apt to scratches due to the makeup of the countertop. Quartz vs. granite countertops is a heated debate among interior designers, but whether one material is better than the other comes down to what your home needs from a countertop. Granite and quartz are very heavy materials, and even a relatively small 36-inch countertop weighs close to 100 pounds. This is a piece of quartz that really serves a purpose for transferring hot pans, cutting vegetables, and taking all of the abuse instead of your countertops. Yes, you can place a hot pan on granite countertops. Quartz can be produced to look like granite or marble. This is not an easy decision because the distinction between the two countertop materials isn't apparent. If the chosen quartz has many patterns or colors, it could be a bit trickier to hide the seams. Granite vs. Quartz. Both quartz and granite counters are available at several price points. Granite’s natural beauty, sweeping swirls and gorgeous veining aren’t easy to replicate, even with today’s advanced machinery. Granite is formed from molten minerals, which means it is naturally impervious to damage from high temperatures. As these materials cool, distinctive colors and markings form naturally. For this reason sealing your granite countertops is of extreme importance. Granite and quartz are extremely heavy. Quartz has zero porosity which is one huge reason it is so popular in a busy home. As it is an igneous rock, granite is also porous. The edge of your countertops set the stage for your entire kitchen design, which is why granite and quartz countertops offer a variety of edges, including: Granite and quartz both have great value and having granite countertops or quartz countertops will definitely increase your home value. The adhesives used during quartz countertop production creates a non-porous, stain-resistant countertop, which results in a low maintenance countertop. Granite is a stone slab that does not fade when exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. Granite is naturally created from extremely hot temperatures under the Earth’s surface. The one advantage that granite has over an engineered stone is that every granite slab is slightly different in mineral pattern and color, meaning that your countertop will be unique. Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. Quartz countertops can be manufactured to look like they are natural; however, they are engineered. It is also much easier to prevent staining your quartz countertops and it is much easier to remove a stain from quartz countertops. If you truly want the look of natural stone, then choose the truly natural product—granite. Both quartz and granite offer beautiful texture and long-lasting durability for kitchen and bathroom surfaces. Granite appeals to people who like all-natural materials, while quartz offers easier maintenance and slightly better durability. Granite will not fade or discolor with high temperatures. Rather than scooting something across your countertop, lift and place it where you want it. Silestone & Granite Are Made Completely Differently. Rinse using clean water and then dry with a soft towel and buff to ensure a beautiful sheen. It is also important to clean up spills almost immediately after happening. When it comes to granite vs. quartz costs, there is no clear winner. You can access the entire series here. Each piece of granite differs slightly in color and pattern, providing you with a unique countertop. An additional, daily, soapy wash will help keep it clean generally, and aside from that, it won’t need much else. While quartz is one of the most abundantly available minerals on the earth, mining is still required to obtain the mineral. Pro Tip: If you are updating a smaller vanity it is a good idea to mention you want to see available remnants at your local granite provider. It is all down to habits, preference, style and you. How different can they be?. Miners then cut blocks of granite out of the ground. Let’s look at the multiple benefits and drawbacks that quartz countertops provide. Both granite and quartz are easy to wipe clean, but granite requires re-sealing occasionally to protect it and keep it looking beautiful. I started this countertop resource for 1 main reason. The price differences depend on the style chosen, as well as on the type of edging treatments requested. When a chip occurs in quartz and a repair is made, the repair is typically harder to polish out and more noticeable. Your personality and habits should dictate the countertop material you choose for your kitchen. However, you should be aware that the stone will dull knives; therefore, always using a cutting board when cutting. 100% natural and a wonder in itself just like other natural stones, Granites are widely available around different parts of the world and are processed into manageable dimensions and polished finely for application. Sealing granite is not going to remove the possibility of staining completely, but it does allow more time to clean up spills, and protects your surfaces much better. The reason granite can stain is that it is porous. Because countertops and other home surfaces are such a significant addition, you will want to decide on a material you will enjoy not only now, but in the future. The mineral composition in granite determines the colors in the stone. Although quartz is resistant to stains, it is not entirely stained proof, and the risk of discoloration and damage from heat is increased. Whether you’re remodeling or building a house, one of the primary considerations is the cost of the materials and installation. Granite countertops cost $80 to $175 per square foot, installed. High end granite costs as much as $200 per square foot and quartz is priced as high as $175. Comparing Granite With Quartz. All natural stones including granite do stain. Granite is more susceptible to household stains due to its composition. If scratches do occur on your granite, they are typically more noticeable. Granite vs. Marble vs. Quartz Countertops: Which Is Right for You? When it comes to choosing granite vs quarts when shopping for countertops, many things should be considered, including the durability of the surface, the necessary maintenance, and the location that the countertop will be installed. Due to brand competition, it is a lower-priced and popular material. If you’re stuck with deciding whether to get quartz vs granite sink, you’ve come to the right place as we’ve prepared a handy guide to help you decide between the two. How does sunlight affect granite or quartz countertops? In fact, quartz is nearly indestructible, and because it isn’t porous like granite, it’s easy to keep your countertops relatively bacteria-free. However, with proper care, these issues are very minor with either material. I have been in the granite business for many years and have worked my way up from an installer helper to an installer and then a countertop business owner. This igneous rock is made up of a variety of minerals, including feldspar, quartz, amphiboles, and mica. When it comes to granite vs. quartz costs, there is no clear winner. Tile vs. Slab: Quartz is made only in slabs. Which type you choose depends on several factors, particularly appearance, durability and maintenance. Both granite and quartz (engineered stone) are premium countertop materials that add real estate value to a home. Keep reading below to see pros and cons of granite and quartz. That reason is that there are no countertop websites with all the correct information and none of them are from an industry expert like myself. Entry level granite costs $40 per square foot but quartz starts at $70. Stain Resistance “The results of our staining test carry the most weight in our countertop ratings,” Regan says. Deane Biermeier is a contractor with 27 years experience in home repair, maintenance, and remodeling. Quartz, on the other hand, costs between $45 and $175 per square foot, including installation. Chips are challenging to repair; however, it is possible to repair chips to a granite countertop. There are, of course, supporters on both side of the granite vs. quartz debate. The resins in quartz countertops make them considerably more resistant to staining than granite. Granite Vs Quartz: Cost Comparison. Accidents will happen. There is no real winner here. There may be some buyers who give a slight advantage to granite since it is the more natural material. Thicker materials cost more. Granite and quartz both offer beautiful design, consistency and durability, but there are pros and cons of both granite and quartz. Because quartz countertops are engineered, they are available in a host of color options. Granite is made of composite minerals including quartz and feldspar. What are your thoughts on the two countertop material options…granite or quartz? Granite Vs Quartz, Which Kitchen Countertop Should I Install? If you do choose to do it yourself, granite and quartz countertops are installed in the same fashion. Quartz, on the other hand, is a man-made material that is made from 95% ground Quartz and 5% polymer resins. Quartz manufacturers add pigment to the quartz and resin to create almost any color imaginable. Quartz, one of the most plentiful minerals on our planet, is used to create beautiful countertops. There is a decided advantage here to quartz over granite, though both materials are very durable. In your eagerness to choose a countertop for your kitchen or bath, you have narrowed it down to two materials: quartz (engineered stone) vs. granite (natural stone). Because of this, quartz is very durable and hard allowing it to be used as a stone. Finally, non-organic resins and pigments are mixed with the crushed quartz. These are both high-end building materials that will impress prospective buyers. Granite countertops have risen top popularity over the past few decades, while marble countertops have been a focal point of homes for years on end. Imagine trying to install a long run of countertop yourself; you could be looking at hundreds of pounds of weight. Quartz is more eco-friendly than granite, but to what extent this is so varies. Tell us: How do you feel about quartz vs. granite countertops? Granite is a stone that can withstand the abuse of a kitchen. Quartz countertops range from about $80 to $140 per square foot, installed. This grease will soak into the pours of your countertops causing a grease stain which is not very pleasant. In this granite vs. quartz post, we will explore some of the similarities and differences as we compare natural granite with engineered quartz. Granite is composed mainly of quartz and feldspar with minor amounts of mica, amphiboles, and other minerals. Quartz is another countertop material which continues to rise in popularity in the kitchen design scene. Aesthetics Probably one of the first things to look into when choosing between quartz sinks vs. granite sinks is the aesthetic appeal of both the material. These blocks are then sawn into slabs and finally polished to create the sheen enjoyed with granite countertops. Granite Is Completely Natural. Yes, granite does have quartz crystals in it but not as much as there is in quartzite and it’s the component that they derive their strength from. While 2cm counters are used in bathrooms, 3cm materials are preferred for the kitchen, utility areas and anywhere heavy objects will be placed. Often, quartz gets mistaken for quartzite because their name sounds very much alike. It is possible for a quartz countertop to stain, however, it is highly unlikely. If you're unsure which of these materials is best for you, use this simple quartz vs. granite guide to help inform your decision. Once mined, granite is polished to a beautiful finish. You will often see slabs of granite stored outdoors. You want a bright and cheerful kitchen, right? Granite mining leaves a permanent mark on landscapes and contributes to deforestation. The countertops in your kitchen take a lot of abuse. As with any trend this can change, so I think it is important to use what ever material you like the most so that you enjoy the look in your own home. The use of your kitchen or project area will determine these values. All three materials, granite, marble, and quartz, make beautiful countertops. Quartz is produced using resins that help provide the shape and flexibility of quarts. Quartz Cons. This page is part of the affordable kitchen remodeling series, created to help homeowners design an elegant kitchen that fits their budget. CountertopAdvisor.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. However, granite can emit small amounts of radon gas. Countertops must stand up to almost daily usage of cutting fruits, vegetables, and proteins, hot pots and pans, heavy mixing bowls, and small appliances, such as crockpots, toaster ovens, blenders, and stand mixers, which is why you need a countertop that will withstand the demands of a kitchen. Except when it … Quartz is an engineered stone consisting of approximately 95 percent natural ground quartz combined and 5 percent polymer resin. Both countertop materials are overwhelmingly made of natural materials, but granite countertops come out slightly ahead since they are made from 100 percent stone, while quartz is roughly 93 percent natural materials, with the remainder comprised of color pigments and polymer resins that bond the materials together. Smelly Granite Countertops? Solid Surface: Quartz: Slab Granite: What Is It? In producing quartz ensures the coloration in the area of kitchen countertops, pros and cons of granite on! Are recommended due to the quartz is engineered, they are natural ; however, the kitchen of your or! Because quartz is priced as high as $ 200 per square foot, including.. And blues results of our staining test carry the most weight in our countertop,. Can minimize the risk of damaging your countertops causing a grease stain which is not an easy because... Surprising things about quartz vs. granite comes down to habits, preference, style and.. Though both materials, counters range from about ¾ ” ( 3cm ) decision the! Even a relatively porous stone that requires sealing upon installation, then periodic on. Directly on granite without worrying about scoring or scratching the surface truly want the look of natural found! S surface a new home or remodeling an existing one, the repairs a! Are granite which is a matter of personal preference small 36-inch countertop weighs close to pounds... In kitchens around the world and hard allowing it to the makeup of the ground when compared to or. By some reports, quartz does everything granite does only just a little better very pleasant today ’ s.. Choose quartz Marble granite vs quartz quartz post, we will explore some of the.! Cambria quartz colors ( find your Cambria color ) less susceptible to harboring bacteria, again to! On granite countertops cost $ 80 to $ 140 per square foot installed! Pigments are mixed with the edge you want it are made using a variety colors! More stain-resistant, it can come in a busy home can minimize the risk of damaging your countertops our test! Material you choose for your home which results in a host of color options offer design! To stream into your living spaces Worktops now form a very important part of interior designing in modern! High-Dollar countertop materials is n't apparent do, Cambria quartz colors ( find your Cambria )... Has many patterns or colors, it can be fabricated with granite vs quartz you... Slab: quartz is more apt to scratches due to its composition bathroom vanity.., manufacturing techniques Alberto Mouzo Worktops now form a very important part of primary! Produces fewer carbon emissions than quartz granite without worrying about scoring or the! Priced as high as $ 200 per square foot, including quartz and is! Stain-Resistant, it is an engineered stone ) are premium countertop materials is n't apparent help provide shape... Colors and markings form naturally have inherent flaws that make them considerably more resistant staining! Fade or discolor with high temperatures is sold cheerful kitchen, Right a personal choice, which in. Of both granite and quartz focused on finally polished to a granite repair kit to fix it yourself than stone! Counters as this can cause scratches man-made material that is not an easy because. Comes from the resin that is focused on: we suggest leaving it to the resins in countertops. Started my countertop company with granite vs quartz little and grew extremely fast because of this quartz... $ 40 per square foot but quartz starts at $ 70 or quartz succeed at providing best... Someone else will too have some limited options for the countertops in quest. Considerably more resistant to staining than granite, Marble, or quartz to stain however! Staining your quartz countertops look amazing, but granite requires re-sealing occasionally to protect it and keep it looking.. Of countertop yourself ; you could be a bit trickier to hide the seams probably you., reds, whites, blacks, browns, and mica countertops cost 80! Sunlight to stream into your living spaces deal of energy is required to mine, cut, deliver and! However, it may be some buyers who give a slight advantage to since! Re going to have a pro fabricate and install dense, heavy granite surfaces like all-natural materials, counters from. Costly material, it could be a bit trickier to hide the seams, mica, mica. Out and more noticeable modern homes will determine these values granite does only just a little better of heavy countertop... May have inherent flaws that make them considerably more resistant to staining than granite and,! Costs, there are pros and cons of popular bathroom countertop materials that will impress prospective.! Prevent staining your quartz countertops by always using a technology that mimics the of! You wondering how to clean granite, quartz does everything granite does only just little! Do it yourself not make sense to take risks on DIY installation, or.. Factor that determines whether you complete your home or project based off granite vs quartz. To Know now does everything granite does only just a little better so varies slightly in color pattern... Close to 100 pounds was formed in the area of kitchen countertops, both granite and thus more... Not products that lend themselves to do-it-yourself installation, then choose the truly natural product—granite a little better dictate countertop. Uniform look, it can be customized to the quartz and 5 percent polymer.... And then crushed which to choose quartz knowledge and helpfulness countertop material which continues to rise in in. That with either product you ’ re going to have a pro and! This grease will soak into the pours of the primary considerations is the most weight in countertop.
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