Quartz and granite are two of the most popular countertop materials. Many homeowners wonder if quartz countertops are as heavy as granite. The answer is not straightforward as it depends on several factors. Here is a detailed comparison of the weight of quartz vs granite countertops.
An Overview of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%. Some key features of quartz countertops:
- Highly durable and resistant to scratches, heat, and stains
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Non-porous so does not require annual sealing
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Seamless appearance as joints are tightly bonded
Quartz slabs are available in standard 3cm thickness. Thicker options like 2cm or 1.2cm are also available. The slabs are cut and fabricated into custom countertops for kitchens and bathrooms.
An Overview of Granite Countertops
Granite is a naturally occurring igneous rock made of interlocking mineral crystals like quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is mined from quarries in large blocks and then cut into slabs. Key features:
- Extremely hard and durable natural stone
- Available in a diverse range of natural colors and patterns
- Needs to be sealed periodically to prevent stains
- Can have natural pits, fissures that require filling
Granite slabs are typically available in 3cm, 2cm and 1.2cm thickness. The slabs are cut and polished into custom countertops.
Weight Comparison Between Quartz and Granite
Now coming to the key question – are quartz countertops as heavy as granite?
The weight of both materials varies based on the thickness of the slabs. Here is a general comparison:
- A 3cm thick quartz slab weighs around 15-18 pounds per square foot.
- A 3cm thick granite slab weighs between 18-22 pounds per square foot.
So in the standard 3cm thickness, granite is slightly heavier than quartz, by about 3-5 pounds per square foot.
However, at 2cm thickness:
- Quartz weighs around 12-15 pounds per square foot
- Granite weighs 15-18 pounds per square foot
So in the 2cm thickness, quartz and granite have quite similar weight, within 2-3 pounds of each other.
Finally, at 1.2cm thickness:
- Quartz weighs approximately 7-12 pounds per square foot
- Granite weighs 10-15 pounds per square foot
So in the thinner 1.2cm slabs, quartz is noticeably lighter than granite, by about 2-5 pounds per square foot.
Why is Granite Heavier than Quartz?
The key reasons granite is heavier than quartz are:
- Natural Density: Granite is a naturally dense igneous rock while quartz surfaces contain resins and polymers.
- Thickness Tolerance: Granite has higher thickness variation while quartz keeps to tight thickness standards.
- Reinforcements: Quartz often uses lighter polymer-based backings while granite may use heavier fiberglass mesh.
So in summary, the natural density and thickness variations in granite make it weigh more than quartz for a given nominal thickness.
Does the Weight Difference Matter for Countertops?
The weight difference between granite and quartz countertops typically does not matter for installation or use.
Since countertops are installed on cabinets and supported underneath, the top surface weight is not a structural concern. Both granite and quartz surfaces are strong enough as horizontal countertops.
The weight also does not significantly affect use. Most homeowners cannot tell a practical difference between a 12 lb/sq.ft quartz top and a 15 lb/sq.ft granite top when placing items or using the surface.
However, very thick slabs like 3cm granite may feel more solid and indestructible to some homeowners. The lightness of thin 1.2cm quartz though makes cutting and installation easier.
Weight Considerations When Choosing between Quartz and Granite
When deciding between quartz vs granite, consider the weight in these aspects:
- Thin profiles: Go with quartz for 1.2cm thickness to reduce weight.
- Large surface areas: Quartz has a weight advantage for large expanses like kitchen islands.
- Transport and Installation: Thinner quartz is easier to lift and install than thick granite pieces.
- Undermount Sinks: Quartz works better with undermount sinks due to lower weight.
So in summary, for most standard countertops the weight difference is negligible. But factor it in when choosing very thick or thin pieces, or for large installations.
Conclusion
To answer the original question – quartz countertops are slightly lighter than granite in 3cm thickness. But at 2cm, the weights are quite similar within 2-3 lbs. Only at 1.2cm does quartz have a clear weight advantage over granite.
While not a dealbreaker, granite’s higher density does make it the heaviest option. Factor the weight into the decision when choosing very thin or thick slabs, overhead orientation, or large surface areas. For most standard countertops though, the quartz vs granite weight difference is not a significant decision criteria.
FAQs about Weight of Quartz vs Granite Countertops
Is a quartz countertop heavy?
A standard 3cm thick quartz countertop weighs around 15-18 pounds per square foot, which is not considered overly heavy. Even large quartz countertops are not excessively heavy for installation on cabinet supports.
What thickness of quartz is lightest?
The 1.2cm thickness of quartz is the lightest, weighing just 7-12 pounds per square foot. It allows very large pieces to be moved for installation.
Is 2cm quartz heavier than 3cm granite?
No, 2cm quartz at 12-15 lbs/sq.ft is lighter than the typical weight range of 18-22 lbs/sq.ft for 3cm granite.
Does thicker quartz or granite make a difference in use?
Not really. Once installed, an average homeowner cannot discern a practical weight difference between a 12 lb and 18 lb countertop surface.
Why is granite heavier if it’s a natural stone like quartz crystals?
The resins and polymers blended into engineered quartz lighten it compared to solid natural granite which has heavier mineral crystals.
Does a heavier countertop mean it’s better quality?
No, higher weight does not directly imply better quality or durability. Engineered quartz countertops are lighter but extremely durable through material innovations.
Can you tell if a countertop is quartz or granite by lifting a sample?
It is difficult for an average person to reliably discern quartz from granite by briefly lifting a small sample. Larger pieces directly allow comparing the weight.
Should weight affect the choice between quartz and granite?
For most countertops, the weight difference is insignificant. But factor it in for very thin or thick slabs, overhead orientation, or very large surface areas where quartz has a slight advantage.