Granite Countertops Vs Quartz Countertops: What Is A Better Fit For Me?

Granite and quartz are two of the most popular and most highly sought after high-end materials for countertops on the market right now, and when it comes to choosing, the decision is leaving many homeowners scratching their heads. The truth of the matter is that both materials are excellent choices, and what it comes down to is your personal preference for your kitchen or bathroom remodel.

Quartz countertops are created using 93% crushed quartz and 7% resin to bind it all together. This composition of the quartz allows homeowners to have uniform and customized styles in their countertops; one aspect that has caused quartz to rise in popularity so steeply over the last handful of years. Granite countertops, on the other hand, are taken in slabs from the earth and retain their natural look. While it allows for less customization, the look of natural stone is one that will never go out of fashion, and what attracts many to granite countertops in the first place.

When considering prices for quartz and granite countertops, a homeowner can expect to pay a little more for granite countertops in their remodel when compared to quartz, but not always necessarily by much. Granite countertops, on average, begin at around $60 per square foot but can rise quickly and steeply, while quartz countertops range from around $65 to $100 per square foot depending on the quartz a homeowner desires. In some instances, you may be able to have granite countertops for less than quartz, but it will depend greatly on the options you choose.

For homes that see a lot of rough activity, it pays to know that granite, being a completely natural stone, is more porous than quartz. This means that the stone can be susceptible to staining damage and could be more difficult to disinfect when compared to quartz. Quartz is a non-porous mixture of crushed stone and resin, so stains have no place to get in, and bacteria can be quickly and effectively wiped away. When comparing the two, however, quartz tends to be more susceptible to heat damage and should be protected from hot plates, pans, or pots.

The bottom line when comparing quartz to granite is simply this – both options add a lot of value to a kitchen or bathroom remodel, and it boils down to which one falls in line with your personal preference. To see which would work best in your new kitchen or bathroom, simply call us at Cardigan Kitchens and Baths today.