A Kitchen Showdown - Granite Countertops Versus Quartz Countertops

Stone countertops can add value to the home and look beautiful. They also tend to be more durable than many other countertop options. Two of the more popular choices are granite countertops and quartz countertops. Which one is right for you will depend on a number of different factors.

Cost

One factor that can't be overlooked is the cost of the countertop. Although this can vary, quartz countertops usually cost somewhere between $80 and $140 per square foot including installation, and granite countertops usually cost somewhere between $80 and $175 per square foot including installation and depending on the type of granite chosen. This means that unless you're going for a really high-end granite, these two countertop materials cost about the same amount of money. You'll have to compare the exact options you're considering to determine which is more affordable.

Looks

This is really something that is in the eye of the beholder, as different people prefer different things when it comes to looks. Because granite is a natural stone cut out of the ground in big chunks, there are fewer options for colors and patterns than with quartz countertops, which are made from ground up quartz mixed with resin. Granite colors aren't consistent, so it isn't possible to hide any seams that may be needed to create the countertop, while seams can be minimized in the more standard appearance of quartz countertops.

Maintenance and Care

Quartz needs less maintenance and is easier to care for than granite. Granite countertops need to be sealed and then resealed every one to three years to maintain their resistance to stains and moisture. This isn't necessary with quartz. Either way, it's still a good idea to clean up any stains right away and not leave wet items on the countertop for any length of time. Keep in mind that direct sunlight can also cause quartz to fade, which can mean that some parts of the countertop may become lighter than others if some -- but not all -- of the counter is exposed to sunlight.

Durability

Both of these materials are very strong and resistant to damage, but they can be cracked with a hard blow. Quartz is slightly more resistant to damage, however. Once damaged, either countertop will need to be repaired by a professional and this isn't always easy or possible to do. Either of these countertops can last a lifetime if properly cared for.

Environmental Impact

Granite countertops are a slightly better choice for those concerned about the environmental impact of their choices, as the manufacturing process of quartz countertops produce a slightly greater amount of carbon emissions.

As you can see, both options are great choices for a countertop. Contact a company like GranBrazil Inc for more information about both options.