While granite countertops have long been a mainstay in the kitchen, more and more consumers are turning to quartz (engineered stone) kitchen countertop surfaces. And when you get down to the comparisons, it is pretty simple to see why.
For natural beauty and variation, most will argue that nothing beats a granite kitchen countertop. The unique character of stone really shines in this area!
When you start to compare features however, you will find that a quartz kitchen countertop offers many advantages that you won’t find in granite kitchen countertops. Which one is best for you is a personal decision that you will need to make after weighing all the factors and discussing them with your kitchen designer.
The Advantages of Quartz
Durability
Quartz is one of the hardest minerals on earth, and quartz countertops are extremely durable and long-lasting. They are resistant to scratches, chips, and stains, and can withstand high levels of heat without being damaged.
Low Maintenance
Unlike natural stone countertops such as granite, which require periodic sealing to prevent staining, quartz countertops are non-porous and do not require sealing. They are easy to clean with soap and water or a mild detergent and do not require special cleaning products.
Aesthetics
Quartz countertops are available in a wide range of colors and patterns and can be made to mimic the look of natural stone such as granite or marble. They can also be customized to fit any design aesthetic, from modern to traditional.
Consistency
Unlike granite, which can vary in color and pattern from slab to slab, quartz is manufactured to be consistent in color and pattern, making it easier to match countertops in larger spaces or for multi-unit projects.
Advantages of Granite
Gorgeous, Natural Countertops
Granite is a natural stone that offers a unique, one-of-a-kind look. It has endless variations in color and pattern. No two granite countertops are exactly the same, giving homeowners a truly unique and beautiful surface for their kitchen or bathroom.
Durability
Granite is a very hard and durable material that holds up strong to the wear and tear of everyday use. It resists scratches and chips, and can withstand high levels of heat without being damaged.
Resale value
Homes with granite countertops often have a higher resale value than those without, generally, making it a smart investment for homeowners who are considering selling their home in the future.
Maintenance
While granite countertops do require periodic sealing to prevent staining, they are relatively easy to maintain with regular cleaning and care.
Long-lasting
Granite countertops can last for decades with proper care and maintenance, making them a long-term investment for homeowners.
Comparing Quartz and Granite Countertops
Durability
While both quartz and granite countertops are durable and long-lasting, quartz is generally more resistant to scratches and chips. Granite is more porous than quartz and, thus, can be more susceptible to staining and damage from acidic substances.
Maintenance
Quartz countertops require less maintenance than granite, as they do not need to be sealed. Granite countertops may need to be sealed periodically to prevent staining.
Aesthetics
Both quartz and granite offer a wide range of colors and patterns, but the natural veining and variations in color of granite make most homeowners go crazy for granite over the more uniform appearance of quartz.
Cost
While the cost of both quartz and granite countertops can vary depending on the quality and style chosen, granite countertops are generally less expensive than quartz.
Radon
One recurring issue that comes up with granite as a kitchen countertop concerns radon. Radon, a radioactive gas, has been linked to lung cancer. Numerous studies have been done with results widely varying. Consumer Reports, in their own study, found small amounts coming from granite and almost none coming from quartz.
In the end, most consumers will boil their kitchen countertop decision to 2 factors: choosing between the distinctive natural colors of granite or the low maintenance, higher performance of quartz. Cost will be fairly close to one another, unless you pick a real one of kind granite color.
Your Non-Granite & Non-Quartz Options
Wood/Butcher Block
A time-tested choice for work surfaces in the kitchen, wood butcher block kitchen countertops offer a warm, beautiful look. From maple’s tight grains to the exotic feel of black walnut, wood butcher block kitchen countertops can be an excellent choice.
Pros: Natural look and feel; can be sanded, sealed and maintained over time; easy to clean
Cons: Must be oiled and sealed regularly for proper wear and appearance; scratches naturally and easily from cutting; can be damaged from stains or water over time
Soapstone
These rustic stone kitchen countertops are being found in more and more kitchens. Soapstone has a smooth surface that has a feel that is often compared to a dry bar of soap. Soapstone countertops have a natural darker gray tone that is particularly popular, offering a beautiful and striking contrast when used with lighter stains and painted whites and off-white finishes.
Pros: Deep, rich color options; smooth, cool feel; offers some stain and heat resistance
Cons: Will darken over time; susceptible to cracking; requires regular maintenance with mineral oil
Concrete
With surprising flexibility, concrete kitchen countertops offer tinted colors and unusual shapes customized to the client's needs. With options for honed finish and texture variations including tiny pebbles and sand, concrete kitchen countertops can truly personalize your kitchen space.
Pros: Heat and scratch resistance; color can be tinted for variation; offers exotic and unique look
Cons: Susceptible to cracking; is porous and must be sealed 3-4 times a year for best performance (but can be sealed); sometimes is perceived as more “industrial” looking
Stainless Steel
This industrial-looking surface works best in a more modern and contemporary kitchen design. The silvery-gray of stainless steel kitchen countertops are always custom-made and often will not have any visible seams. It could be a little much though if you have your heart set on stainless steel fixtures and appliances.
Pros: Easy to clean; can handle hot pans; rustproof
Cons: Expensive; noisy; susceptible to denting; not a surface to cut on; can be industrial looking; shows fingerprints
Marble
An ideal surface for dough and baking prep, marble kitchen countertops are often the complimentary top in the kitchen, finding its’ way onto an island or specific baking prep area. Price plays a factor as well, as marble kitchen countertops typically carry a higher price tag.
Pros: Striking in appearance; heat resistance; water proof
Cons: Expensive; porous; prone to staining if not professionally sealed; requires periodic maintenance; can scratch
The choice in countertops is not limited to just granite and quartz. There are plenty of options, be it as you main countertop area or a stylish or high performance secondary top. We see more kitchens with two cabinet finishes, so do not be afraid to consider two countertop materials as well.
