Quartz vs. Granite: What’s the Right Choice for Your Kitchen?
Quartz and granite are popular materials for today’s kitchen countertops. In this article, we will look at quartz vs. granite kitchen countertops to help you decide which option is right for you.
Quartz vs. Granite: Countertop Materials
There are a few basic differences between quartz and granite materials, including the following:
Quartz Countertops
Engineered material made of granite, marble, quartz, and other particles mixed with a strong resin.
Available in a wider range of colour and design options by adding pigments and materials such as ceramics, glass, or mirrors.
Highly durable material resistant to chips, stains, and scratches.
Granite Countertops
Natural slabs of quarried stone.
Limited colour and design options compared to quartz.
Naturally heat-resistant.
Quartz vs. Granite: Appearance
Both quartz and granite countertops can create stunning kitchens, although there are a few things to keep in mind:
Quartz Countertops
Many homeowners find that when it comes to appearance, quartz counters tend to win out. This is because as an engineered material, quartz is far more versatile than granite.
As a result, you can choose the exact look you desire based on colour, contrast, veining, patterns, and more. Quartz also offers a more seamless appearance as the engineering process creates consistency in the countertops’ design patterns.
Granite Countertops
As a natural countertop material sourced from quarries, granite is limited in pattern and colour choices. Although granite offers a one-of-a-kind countertop, it isn’t always possible to find the ideal match to achieve the exact look for your kitchen design.
Minerals create the patterns and colours found in granite, such as veining and specks. You can also find some slabs with a more even appearance sans the contrast.
The veins and specks range from milky white to black, and in some cases, elements that sparkle, depending on the minerals common to the granite’s natural surroundings.
You’ll also find that many types of granite are no longer on-trend, like pink and reddish hues, gray blues, gold and cream granite, or green. So, it does take patience to hand pick the right slab for your kitchen renovation.
Quartz vs. Granite: Countertop Installation
Installation is an important aspect of kitchen renovations, as the more complicated and time-consuming the process, the more it costs. When we compare quartz vs. granite countertop installation, we don’t really see too many differences.
Where you might find a higher cost is with the natural patterns in some granite countertops. Because quartz countertops are engineered, they have fewer variations, making it easier to line them up to create a seamless look.
Granite, on the other hand, has unique patterns that require a more laborious process to help avoid unpleasant disruptions to the eye, such as mismatched seams and inconsistency in colour and pattern.
We also can’t forget that granite is highly porous, so it must be sealed to prevent stains. The sealing process adds to the time and costs of installation.
Quartz vs. Granite: Sustainability
Today’s homeowners are far more eco-conscious and prefer sustainable materials whenever possible. Although you might think that natural countertop materials would win out in the sustainability category, granite can present more environmental concerns than you might think.
Quarrying granite causes damage to natural habitats, degrades green spaces and soil, and causes air, noise, and water pollution. However, because quartz uses waste products, it doesn’t rely on the quarrying process.
Some concerns have been made regarding radon emissions from both stone and engineered stone countertops. Still, there is no proof that either material produces enough radiation to increase acceptable levels above normal.
Quartz vs. Granite: Maintenance
A kitchen renovation should improve kitchen function while enhancing aesthetics. Choosing materials that require less maintenance helps increase functionality. There is no doubt that quartz is one of the lowest maintenance countertop materials for several reasons:
Quartz contains stain-resistant resins that help maintain its appearance, while granite is porous and will stain if not sealed.
Quartz is bacteria-resistant, whereas granite’s porous nature can hold onto bacteria that can make you sick.
Quartz does not require sealing, whereas granite must be resealed each year.
Quartz scratches, dents, and small cracks can be restored, while granite damage cannot.
Quartz vs. Granite: Durability
Kitchen counters are a major investment that should provide value over the long term. When considering durability, both countertop materials have their advantages and disadvantages:
Granite is by far the more heat-resistant countertop material that is completely safe for hot pans. Unfortunately, the resin in quartz can lead to scorch marks if anything above 150 degrees Fahrenheit is placed on the surface.
Granite is prone to cracking due to naturally occurring flaws, while the engineering process for quartz creates a stronger flaw-free solid surface.
Quartz is more likely to crack when exposed to quick swings in temperature, such as placing a warm plate on the cold counter. Granite, though, is less likely to crack when exposed to hot and cold/cycles.
Quartz vs. Granite: The Pros and Cons
Here is a quick comparison of the two countertop materials:
Quartz Countertops
The Pros
Available in more customized colour and pattern selections
Low maintenance without the need for sealers
A more seamless look
Easier to install (which can save money)
Scratches, dents, and small cracks can be repaired
Stain, chip, and bacteria-resistant
Uses waste materials, making it more sustainable
The Cons
Not resistant to heat, so it can scorch
Engineered material
Granite Countertops
The Pros
100% natural stone
100% heat-resistant
One-of-a-kind patterns
The Cons
Higher maintenance, requiring annual sealing
Will stain if not sealed properly
More prone to cracks due to natural flaws
Quarrying is not good for the environment
Difficult to find suitable matches to some kitchen designs
Many slabs feel outdated
Can cost more to install
Visit a Quartz Co. Gallery Near You for Quartz Countertops
If you’re still uncertain which countertops are best for your kitchen renovation, Quartz Co is your go-to counter specialist. We offer an impressive range of quartz countertops that are ready to view at our local showrooms.
For more information about quartz kitchen countertops, contact us here to book an appointment at the showroom nearest you. As well, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experts here with your questions.
