A great kitchen’s style is determined by its countertops. Our countertop beginner’s guide explains all the materials you can choose from. In most mid to high-end kitchens, granite or manufactured quartz is used.
No pressure, but it’s a crucial decision. If you’re going to have yards and yards of this material adorning your kitchen cabinets, you’d better love the material’s look and feel. Your expectations also need to be met regarding durability and maintenance.
In this article, we’ll answer your biggest questions about granite and quartz, so you know the differences and can choose the best countertops for your home.
What is granite?
Granite is a natural stone quarried from mines and cut into slabs that get polished and fabricated for countertops and backsplashes. Granite’s beauty, as well as its durability—it comes in a variety of colors and speckles—makes it an excellent choice for countertops. You’ll find it holds up well to most daily wear and tear, whether you cook frequently, have kids, or enjoy entertaining.
What is quartz?
A quartz countertop differs from granite in that it is not 100% natural. Instead, quartz countertops are engineered slabs made from a majority of natural ground quartz and a small number of binding agents like resin and polymers. Thus, we have slabs with the luxury and hardness of natural stone, like luxe marble, but without the hassle.
Which is more stylish?
In addition to looking luxurious in kitchen layout, both quartz and granite come in several color options. Granite is a natural stone that features variation, and no two slabs will appear exactly alike. It’s an engineered stone that can be manipulated and more consistent.
The uniformity gives quartz a modern, clean feel, while granite tends to look more traditional and earthy. Quartz is commonly found on waterfall-style kitchen islands. The surface finish differs between quartz and granite: granite feels warmer to touch, and quartz feels cooler. So when you set down something like a coffee cup, they sound different.
Which is easier to install?
Due to their heavy weight, neither quartz nor granite is a great DIY project. However, granite slabs are smaller, which makes them easier to work with, but they also mean you have more visible seams.
Which is more heat resistant?
The manufactured material can get damaged when quartz comes in contact with temperatures higher than 150 degrees F. This is because extreme heat melts resin in the mixture. Granite, one of the most heat-resistant options, means you don’t have to worry as much. Granite is for you to take things off the stove and put them on the counter.
Which is more stain-resistant?
With its porous makeup, custom granite countertops company Orlando fl can stain if spills are left unattended. Clean spills immediately with a damp cloth. Quartz countertops are less susceptible to stains or bacteria, making them an excellent choice for busy families.
Which is easier to clean and sanitize?
The non-porous nature of quartz means it is resistant to stains and water in most cases. You can clean and disinfect granite with rubbing alcohol and water or just plain soap and water.
You can go with a specialty cleaner (there are so many options), but you can also use a mix of warm water and mild soap with a rag or microfiber cloth. Avoid using vinegar or harsh cleaners on both surfaces after cleaning to avoid leaving any water spots.
Which is easier to maintain?
Quartz has an advantage in upkeep. Both materials are durable; quartz does not require annual sealing and rarely cracks. Granite, however, must be sealed whenaled when it’s installed.
Which costs more?
Kitchen remodels are expensive, and granite and quartz are both premium materials. Several factors go into determining the cost of countertops: the type of stone, the thickness of the slab, the edge style (round, beveled, etc.), and the size of your kitchen.
Although both quartz and granite are close in price, quartz is slightly less expensive per square foot than granite. Granite needs more maintenance and will need to be sealed regularly as well.
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